Contextual effects on activity profiles of domestic field hockey during competition and training

Game context is widely accepted to influence performance but most data available is 'categorical' and addresses performance rather than activity. This study assessed direct effects of opposition and team ranking in field hockey to establish influences on activity. One hundred and eight (n=108) female field hockey players (age 16-39 years) participated, giving 186 competition and 48 training analyses. Team average distance (mean ± SD) observed in a mid-ranked team during competition ranged from 5,949 ± 611 to 7,719 ± 257 m demonstrating an opposition rank effect (Pearson's r=.71; adjusted R(2)=.42). However, multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated a stronger relationship in lower ranked teams (Pearson's r=.99; adjusted R(2)=.97 through 3-9). In contrast, no team rank effect was observed during randomly monitored competition where team average distance ranged from 5,177 ± 444 to 7,316 ± 241 m (Pearson's r=.15 and adjusted R(2)=.12). In training, however, a team rank effect was observed in distance-related performance indicators where team average distance during small-sided games ranged from 5,877 ± 188 to 3,551 ± 193 m drill (per 70 min) with Pearson's r=.95 and adjusted R(2)=.87. The presence of contextual effects has significant practical implications for team sports where the training load assumed from competition may be overestimated.