Subjective and Physiological Correlations during Field-Based Soccer Training

Abstract

Kaewchuay S, Onnom E, Chaunchaiyakul R, Masodsai K. Subjective and Physiological Correlations during Field-Based Soccer Training. JEPonline 2024;27(1):62-68. To determine the correlations between subjective evaluation and physiological measurements during field-based soccer training, male soccer players (N = 45) from the 3rd Division of Thailand Professional League were recruited. They were being trained during the pre-season period and had no obstacles for this investigation. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE, 10 scale) and physiologic variables that included heart rate (HR) and oxygen consumption (VO2) were assessed at rest and during the simulated first-half (3*15 min, S1, S2, and S3, of running, walking, jogging, and sprinting between 20-meter conical markers) and second-half (repeated alternated sprinting and jogging activities until exhaustion) of field-based soccer training, using a modified Loughborough Intermittent Shuttle Test (LIST). The results indicate the correlations of the parallel increasing patterns of overall (first-and second-half) of RPE and HR with R2 = 0.336 (P < 0.001). The correlations between RPE and VO2, on the other hand, show the slightly higher but parallel increasing patterns of overall (first-and second-half), with R2 = 0.437 (P < 0.001). In conclusion, psychological stress indicator (RPE) reflects the physiological stresses (HR and VO2) during field-based soccer training. Although RPE-VO2 showed a higher correlation, the RPE-HR correlation is the selected choice and may be a more useful tool for coaches to determine exercise intensity during field training.