External Load Monitoring in Female Basketball: A Systematic Review
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Date
2023-07Author
Espasa Labrador, Javier
Montalvo, Alicia M.
Fort Vanmeerhaeghe, Azahara
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Journal of Human Kinetics 88 : 173-198 (2023)
Abstract
The primary aim of this systematic review was to summarize the current state of research in relation to external
load monitoring in female basketball. The review was conducted according to the PRISMA-P® statement. Publications
included in the review: 1) were original research, 2) evaluated healthy female basketball players, and 3) monitored
basketball practice and competition. The STROBE scale was used to assess quality. A total of 40 publications were
included. The external load was assessed during practice (n = 9), competition (n = 11) or both events (n = 8). Also, time-
motion analysis was implemented in practice (n = 2), competition (n = 9), or both events (n = 1). Accelerometry (n = 28)
and time-motion (n = 12) analysis were the most frequently used methods. However, a wide range in methods and
variables were used to quantify the external load. Placement of devices on the upper back and measuring with a sampling
frequency of 100 Hz were most common. Player Load (PL) values increased with the competitive level of players and were
higher in competition compared to training. Small-sided games can be used to gradually increase loads in female basketball
(PL 5v5: 34.8 ± 8, PL 3v3: 47.6 ± 7.4, TD 5v5: 209.2 ± 35.8 m, and TD 3v3: 249.3 ± 2.8 m). Tasks without defense
seemed to be less demanding. More research is needed to reach a consensus on load control in women's basketball, on
what data are important to collect, and how to use and transfer knowledge to stakeholders.