An In-Depth Analysis of the Physiology of Futsal: Implications for Player Performance and Training

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Futsal, also known as indoor soccer or five-a-side soccer, is a fast-paced and physically demanding sport. The unique characteristics of the game, such as its small pitch size and limited player number, place high physical demands on players. Understanding these demands is crucial for both player performance and training optimization. In this comprehensive overview, we delve into the physiological match-play demands and player characteristics of futsal, shedding light on the implications for training and performance.

The Physiological Demands of Futsal

The Intensity of Futsal

Futsal is characterized by intermittent high-intensity activities. These activities include sprinting, changes of direction (COD), and accelerations and decelerations, all of which are performed with short recovery times. The abundance of such efforts leads to substantial decrements in physiological and neuromuscular responses between the two halves of a match and immediately following match-play.

Heart Rate and Oxygen Consumption

Futsal players typically achieve mean and peak heart rate values during competition that correspond to around 76% and 99% of their maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max), respectively. The average intensity of effort during matches is high, primarily ≥85% of maximum heart rate, with a notable decrease in high-intensity efforts between the two halves.

Biochemical Responses

Studies have also examined the biochemical responses of players following a futsal match. These responses appear to be affected up to 24 hours after the match. For example, a decline in the concentration of salivary immunoglobulin A (SlgA), a biomarker associated with responses to exercise, has been reported after a futsal match. This drop in SlgA concentration may indicate a greater risk for respiratory tract infection, calling for actions to minimize contact with viruses or reduce training load under such conditions.

Player Characteristics in Futsal

Anthropometric Characteristics

Futsal players typically display a low percentage of body fat. This attribute seems to be common among players from different on-court positions and competitive levels. However, goalkeepers have been found to have a higher body fat percentage.

Physiological Characteristics

Futsal players display a VO2max (maximum rate of oxygen consumption measured during incremental exercise) value of around 62 ml·kg−1·min−1. Elite futsal players possess higher VO2max when compared to their sub-elite counterparts. From the present review, it can be concluded that further investigation on the neuromuscular capabilities (i.e., strength, jumping, and COD) of futsal players is warranted.

Neuromuscular Characteristics

Strength Capability

Investigations into the strength capabilities of futsal players have generally utilized isokinetic dynamometry, a method of assessing muscular strength. Studies have found that the dominant leg tends to be stronger than the non-dominant leg. However, more research is needed in this area, particularly using other exercises and tests to assess lower-body strength.

Jumping Ability

Jumping is another crucial aspect of futsal, with players performing multiple high-intensity efforts such as jumps during matches. While elite futsal players appear to display better sprinting abilities compared to lower-level players, jumping capacity does not seem to differentiate between competition levels.

Sprinting Ability and Change of Direction

Sprinting and change of direction (COD) are integral to futsal, with players performing around 26 sprints with an average duration of 2-4 seconds over 8-20 meters during matches. Studies have found that elite players often display higher sprinting ability when compared to their sub-elite peers. However, more research is needed to better understand the role of COD maneuvers in futsal.

Training Implications

Understanding the physical and physiological demands of futsal, as well as the characteristics of players, has significant implications for training. Coaches and strength and conditioning specialists should focus on developing maximal speed, lower-body power and strength, aerobic capacity, and lean muscle mass in futsal players. Training drills that favor the improvement of the aerobic capacity, as well as exercises that enhance lower-body power, such as short sprints and jumps, should be incorporated into training programs.

Moreover, the importance of recovery strategies should not be overlooked. Given the high physiological demands of futsal and the impact on players' biochemical responses, implementing post-match recovery strategies can help minimize injury risk and potentially maintain players' peak neuromuscular performance throughout the season and during match-congested periods.

In conclusion, futsal is a physically demanding sport that requires a high level of aerobic capacity, lower-body power, and lean muscle mass. Understanding the physiological demands and player characteristics of the sport can provide valuable insights for training and performance optimization. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, further research is needed to delve deeper into the intricacies of futsal and its physiological demands.