Repeated Sprints: An Independent Not Dependent Variable

Int J Sports Physiol Perform. 2016 Jul;11(7):693-6. doi: 10.1123/ijspp.2016-0081. Epub 2016 May 18.

Abstract

The ability to repeatedly perform sprints has traditionally been viewed as a key performance measure in team sports, and the relationship between repeated-sprint ability (RSA) and performance has been explored extensively. However, when reviewing the repeated-sprint profile of team-sports match play it appears that the occurrence of repeated-sprint bouts is sparse, indicating that RSA is not as important to performance as commonly believed. Repeated sprints are, however, a potent and time-efficient training strategy, effective in developing acceleration, speed, explosive leg power, aerobic power, and high-intensity-running performance--all of which are crucial to team-sport performance. As such, we propose that repeated-sprint exercise in team sports should be viewed as an independent variable (eg, a means of developing fitness) as opposed to a dependent variable (eg, a means of assessing fitness/performance).

MeSH terms

  • Acceleration
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Exercise Test
  • Female
  • Group Processes
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Muscle Contraction*
  • Muscle Strength*
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiology*
  • Physical Fitness
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Running*
  • Task Performance and Analysis
  • Time Factors