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Repeated sprints with directional changes: do angles matter?
Martin Buchheit1, Bachar Haydar, Said Ahmaidi
1Faculty of Sport Sciences, University of Picardie, Jules Verne, Laboratory of Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation, Amiens, France. martin.buchheit@aspire.qa
Journal of Sports Sciences
|February 17, 2012
Summary
Performance during repeated sprints with changes of direction depends on the angle. While sprint speed is angle-dependent, the overall repeated-sprint ability is more general. Physiological and perceptual responses also varied significantly with turning angles.
Area of Science:
- Sports Science
- Exercise Physiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Team sports demand repeated sprints with changes of direction.
- The influence of turning angles on performance and physiological responses is not fully understood.
- Investigating angle dependency is crucial for optimizing training protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if performance, physiological, and perceptual responses to repeated sprints with changes of direction are angle-dependent.
- To compare responses across different turning angles (45°, 90°, 135°) and a straight sprint.
Main Methods:
- Twelve team-sport players completed single and repeated sprint protocols.
- Protocols included straight sprints and sprints with two changes of direction at various angles.
- Measured variables: mean sprint time, peak heart rate, blood lactate concentration, and rating of perceived exertion.
Main Results:
- Performance, physiological, and perceptual responses were significantly angle-dependent.
- Mean sprint times were generally lower with tighter angles (e.g., 45°) compared to straight sprints.
- Higher physiological and perceptual strain (heart rate, lactate, RPE) observed in straight-line sprints compared to angled sprints.
Conclusions:
- Repeated-sprint ability with changes of direction is influenced by the angle of turn.
- Turning angle significantly impacts performance, physiological load, and perceived exertion.
- While sprint execution is angle-specific, the underlying repeated-sprint ability appears to be a more general physical quality.
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