Analysing short-term training load distribution in elite European basketball: an exploration under six head coaches

The study aimed to analyse and comprehend the variability in training load periodisation among elite basketball coaches, identifying specific strategies employed during different stages preceding matches. The external workload was monitored during the three practices prior to the first match of the week using wearable microtechnology over six seasons (2016–17 to 2021–22). Eight variables were collected for analysis during all sessions and across the six coaches: total duration, Player Load (PL), accelerations (ACC), decelerations (DEC) and number of JUMPS in both total (t) and high intensity bands (h). The study revealed significant variations in training load variables across pre-match sessions, with MD-1 showing distinct differences compared to MD-3 and MD-2. Coaches exhibited diverse approaches in managing external load variables, particularly evident in MD-3 where Co1 imposed the lowest load and Co3 the highest. Results showed significant variability in training load variables across pre-match sessions, with MD-1 exhibiting distinct differences compared to MD-3 and MD-2. Significant variability was observed among coaches for each MD. While there was a general trend that all coaches followed to some extent, each coach still had their unique methods or strategies, and these differences were most apparent during the MD-3.