Match and Training External Load Ratios in Semi-Professional Male Soccer Players: An Exploratory Study

This study aimed to quantify and compare the absolute daily and weekly external loads and training-to-match ratios of high-speed running distance (HSRD) and sprint distance (SPD) across the microcycle in semi-professional male soccer players. Twenty-four players from a Portuguese fourth-division team were monitored across nine standardized microcycles (7 days; 1 match) during the 2024-2025 competitive season using Global Navigation Satellite System devices. Absolute HSRD and SPD values were calculated for each training day and match, and daily and weekly training-to-match ratios were derived. Linear mixed-effects models assessed the effects of weekday, playing position, and their interaction. Match day elicited the highest absolute HSRD and SPD across all positions (p < 0.001). Within the training week, HSRD peaked on MD-3, whereas SPD peaked on MD-2, with the lowest values observed on MD-1. Significant position-by-day interactions were identified for both HSRD and SPD (p < 0.001). Wide defenders and midfielders accumulated greater absolute HSRD during both training and matches, while central defenders exhibited comparatively higher training-to-match ratios despite lower absolute match demands. Notably, in the analyzed team, all playing positions exceeded 100% of match-derived HSRD and SPD during the training week. In conclusion, the semi-professional soccer players investigated herein accumulated weekly high-speed and sprinting loads that exceeded match demands, although their distribution varied by playing position and training day. Confirmatory studies are necessary to further explore training-to-match load ratios across different competitive levels.