Comparing critical speed modelling approaches and exploring relationships with match-play variables in elite male...

A novel bi-exponential method has emerged to estimate critical speed (CS) and D-prime (D') from a 3-min all-out test (3MT).

To compare CS analysis methods to determine whether parameter estimations were interchangeable. Reference values and relationships with key soccer match-play variables were explored.

Thirteen elite male youth (14-15 years old) players completed a 30 m shuttle run 3MT to estimate CS, D', rate of speed decline time constant, maximal speed (S _max), time to S _max (t _max), and fatigue index (FI), using the traditional method and bi-exponential model on average (Bi-Exp_Average) and max speed settings (Bi-Exp_Max-Speed). High-speed running (HSR) and sprinting distances and counts, and the number of accelerations were collected from two matches. Magnitude-based inferences (p < 0.05) with smallest worthwhile change of 0.2 effect sizes were used to analyse differences. Pearson's and Spearman's correlation coefficients were used to measure associations between CS model variables and match-play parameters.

There were significant differences between the traditional method and both bi-exponential models for CS and D', as well as between the bi-exponential models for all variables except t _max. Using the Bi-Exp_Average model, strong correlations (r = 0.70-0.73; p < 0.05) were observed for D' and FI with the number of standardised and individualised HSRs, respectively. With the Bi-Exp_Max-Speed model, there were strong correlations (r/ρ = 0.64-0.68; p < 0.05) between D' and the number of standardised HSRs and sprints, and the number of individualised sprints.

There is a lack of interchangeability between analysis methods. It appears that D' and FI from the bi-exponential models could be associated with high-intensity actions in soccer match-play.