Microdosing Sprint Distribution as an Alternative to Achieve Better Sprint Performance in Field Hockey Players
Víctor Cuadrado-Peñafiel, Adrián Castaño-Zambudio, Luis Manuel Martínez-Aranda, Jorge Miguel González-Hernández, Rafael Martín-Acero, Pedro Jiménez-Reyes
Sensors January 20, 2023 DOI: 10.3390/s23020650 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Controlled trial Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 20 |
| Population | Male professional field hockey players |
| Duration | 6-week intervention |
| Topics | Microdosing |
| Keywords | Sprint performance Team sports Field hockey Training load distribution |
| Key findings | Microdosing sprint training produced significant within-group improvements in sprint performance and mechanical variables, while no significant between-group differences were found compared to traditional training. |
Abstract
Introduction: The implementation of optimal sprint training volume is a relevant component of team sport performance. This study aimed to compare the efficiency and effectiveness of two different configurations of within-season training load distribution on sprint performance over 6 weeks.
Methods: Twenty male professional FH players participated in the study. Players were conveniently assigned to two groups: the experimental group (MG; n = 11; applying the microdosing training methodology) and the control group (TG; n = 9; traditional training, with players being selected by the national team). Sprint performance was evaluated through 20 m sprint time (T20) m and horizontal force–velocity profile (HFVP) tests before (Pre) and after (Post) intervention. Both measurements were separated by a period of 6 weeks. The specific sprint training program was performed for each group (for vs. two weekly sessions for MG and TG, respectively) attempting to influence the full spectrum of the F-V relationship.
Results: Conditional demands analysis (matches and training sessions) showed no significant differences between the groups during the intervention period (p > 0.05). No significant between-group differences were found at Pre or Post for any sprint-related performance (p > 0.05). Nevertheless, intra-group analysis revealed significant differences in F0, Pmax, RFmean at 10 m and every achieved time for distances ranging from 5 to 25 m for MG (p < 0.05). Such changes in mechanical capabilities and sprint performance were characterized by an increase in stride length and a decrease in stride frequency during the maximal velocity phase (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Implementing strategies such as microdosed training load distribution appears to be an effective and efficient alternative for sprint training in team sports such as hockey.
Comparable studies
Other non-randomized and open-label trials on microdosing, most cited first.