Intensity of training sessions among professional indoor soccer (futsal) players: a case study

Resumen

This study aimed to characterize physiological responses of indoor soccer (futsal) professional players to training sessions, according to playing position. The sample was composed by fi ve players ( X =23.9±3.0 yrs) of an adult professional futsal team from Florianópolis, SC, Brazil. The athletes performed a maximal exercise test for measuring oxygen consumption, heart rate (HR) and respiratory quotient (RQ), variables used to create regression equations for energy expenditure (EE, kcal) prediction and to estimate relative work intensity (% max HR). During the sessions, HR was measured with a S610i Polar® monitor. The results showed that the goalkeeper played at 60% to 70% max HR. The mid-fi elders and the attacker worked at more intense levels (81% to 100%), while the defender varied the intensity at intermediate exercise range (71% to 90%). Total EE was similar among mid-fi elders and attacker ( X =339.5 kcal), while the defender presented lower values ( X =255.0 kcal). The goalkeeper had the lowest EE ( X =106.9 kcal). The results agreed with those reported in soccer studies and facilitate planning and control of an individualized training program according to playing position.