An exercise protocol that simulates the activity patterns of elite junior squash.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Racket Sports Research

Background:

• Squash demands intermittent, high-intensity exercise, making physiological and thermoregulatory responses critical for performance.
• Controlled simulation protocols are increasingly used in sports to study physiological changes and intervention efficacy in sport-specific contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel exercise protocol that accurately simulates the physiological requirements of elite junior squash match-play.
• To provide a tool for coaches and sports scientists to objectively investigate performance interventions in squash.

Main Methods:

• Eight elite junior squash players participated in a randomized crossover study.
• Players completed a standard squash match and a squash-specific incremental exercise protocol (multistage squash test [MST]) followed by a squash simulation protocol (SSP).
• Physiological responses including heart rate, blood lactate, and rating of perceived exertion were measured during both conditions.

Main Results:

• The MST protocol elicited near-maximal physiological responses.
• The SSP duration (12.2 min) was comparable to actual match-play duration (10.0 min).
• Peak and mean heart rates, and peak ratings of perceived exertion were similar between the SSP and match-play, indicating high physiological replication.

Conclusions:

• The developed squash simulation protocol (SSP) effectively replicates the physiological demands of elite junior squash match-play.
• The SSP offers a valuable, controlled, and sport-specific tool for researching training programs, nutritional supplements, and thermoregulation strategies in squash.