Aerobic and anaerobic profiles, heart rate and match analysis in older soccer players

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to provide aerobic (maximal oxygen consumption – VO_2max) and anaerobic [jump tests: counter-movement jump (CMJ) and bounce jump (BJ); and running tests: 10 m sprint and 10 m dribbling the ball (10 m_DB)] profiles of older soccer players (n = 12), and heart rate (HR), blood lactate accumulation (La) and match analysis (individual motor activity and team behaviour) aspects of a soccer match. The maximal aerobic test values were: HR_max, 154 ± 14 beat min⁻¹; maximal power, 160 ± 24 W; VO_2peak, 36.3 ± 11.3 ml kg⁻¹ min⁻¹; peak La, 8.2 ± 1.8 mM. Jump test values were: CMJ, 21.2 ± 4.5 cm; BJ, 17.3 ± 4.8 cm. Running performances were: 10 m sprint, 2.06 ± 0.36 s; 10 m_DB, 2.17 ± 0.21 s. Running showed similar values in the two halves (first half, 82%; second half, 88%), while walking lasted longer during the second half. Regarding the technical aspects of the match, 42% of the consecutive passes made in possession of the ball exceeded three passes, indicating that their play was structured in a cooperative manner. Older soccer players succeeded in maintaining good aerobic and anaerobic physical capability.

Keywords:

• Soccer
• Older athletes
• Anaerobic power
• Aerobic power
• Match analysis