Workload Differences Between Training Drills and Competition in Elite Netball.

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Biomechanics
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Understanding player workload is crucial for optimizing training and preventing injuries in elite netball.
• Previous research has not fully differentiated between training drills and game demands in netball.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate differences in internal and external workload variables between netball playing positions.
• To compare workload metrics between training drills and actual game play in elite netball.

Main Methods:

• Nine elite female netballers were monitored over 28 weeks, including 15 games and all training sessions.
• Workload was assessed using inertial measurement units and heart-rate monitors, measuring variables like PlayerLoad (PL), accelerations, decelerations, jumps, and heart-rate zones.

Main Results:

• Conditioning and match play during training were the only drills that matched or exceeded game workloads.
• Small-sided games showed lower workloads than actual games across all assessed variables.
• Specific positions like goalkeepers and shooters had more jumps, while midcourt players had more low-intensity events during games.

Conclusions:

• Small-sided games in netball training do not adequately prepare players for game demands and require modification.
• Significant workload differences exist between netball playing positions, necessitating individualized training approaches rather than broad positional groupings.