Effects of acute fatigue on the functional performance of basketball players

Abstract

The study evaluated the impact of acute fatigue on basketball players' functional performance. A sample of 34 players was tested before and after a fatigue protocol. The 20-meter sprint, the agility t-test and the 505 test were analyzed. The induction of fatigue was accomplished through the Repeated Sprint Protocol (RSP). The players' functional performance compared in pre and post-RSP demonstrated significant differences in the 20-meter sprint test (and in the agility t-test. Based on the fatigue level, players were divided into two groups: high-fatigue and low-fatigue. Significant differences were observed between pre and post-RSP for 20-meter sprint test for both groups. However, only the high-fatigue group demonstrated significant variations in the 505 agility test. These findings suggest that acute fatigue can influence basketball players' performance in tasks requiring acceleration speed and agility. Players with a higher level of fatigue also show differences in agility performance that involve changes in direction of the displacements. Basketball coaches and physical trainers should consider ways in which acute fatigue can be managed and how it may affect the functional players' performance.