Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the construct validity of the running repeated
sprint ability (rRSA) test to discriminate performances between: i) various playing
positions (Study 1), and ii) teams of different level of competitiveness (Study 2),
in trained soccer players. Study 1 comprised clubs' players participating in the top
local professional league. Study 2 comprised professional and semiprofessional players
from the National Under-23 and Youth squads respectively, and amateur-level players
from a University team. The rRSA test protocol consisted of either 6 or 8 repetitions
of 20-m all-out sprints, interspersed with a 20-s active recovery period. There were
significant differences in the rRSA performance between goalkeepers and outfield-positions
(p < 0.01). Forwards had significantly better rRSA performance compared to defenders
and midfielders (F ratio = 4.147, p = 0.02). Performance in the rRSA was superior
in teams with relatively higher competitiveness (F ratio = 3.973, p = 0.02). The rRSA
is a specific physical or fitness attribute of an outfield-position player, and may
be of greater importance to the forwards' position. Performance in the rRSA also seems
to be associated with a higher level of competitiveness and/or adaptation to resistance
training. These data support the construct validity of the rRSA test in trained soccer
players.
Key words
aerobic - positional demands - anaerobic
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Bachelor of Physical Education Abdul Rashid Aziz
Exercise Physiology Unit, Sports Medicine & Research Centre
Singapore Sports Council
230, Stadium Boulevard
397799 Singapore
Singapore
Phone: + 65 65 00 54 77
Fax: + 65 63 45 27 95
Email: abdul_rashid_aziz@ssc.gov.sg