ABSTRACT
Maximal aerobic power was assessed using a sport-specific multistage shuttlerun test to exhaustion (Yo-Yo endurance test). Gas analysis was performed using a portable lightweight breath-by breath gas analyser (K4b2, COSMED, Rome, Italy). Repeated sprint activity (RSA) was assessed according to Reilly et al. (2000) where the soccer players completed 7×30 m line sprints with 20 s active
156 Castagna, D’Ottavio, Vincenzo and Barbero Álvarez
recovery between bouts. Sprint times were assessed using photocell beams (Muscle Lab, Bosco System, Rome, Italy). Fatigue index (FIX) during the RSA test was calculated according to Fitzsimons et al. (1993). Blood lactate (BLa) analyses were performed before (Pre), and 3 min (3 min) after the RSA protocol (Lactate Pro, Akray, Tokyo, Japan) using finger tip sampling.
