Speaker Credentials
OMS-II
Speaker Credentials
MPH
College
Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, DO
Medical Specialty
Sports Medicine
Format
Presentation
Start Date
November 2024
End Date
November 2024
Track
1
Abstract
Comparative Analysis of External Load Metrics in MMA Sparring and Kickboxing Sessions, Lauren Stern, OMS-II, College of Osteopathic Medicine Objective. This study was conducted to compare external load and intensity metrics during different MMA training modalities. Background. PlayerLoad (PL) and PlayerLoad per Minute (PL/Min) are increasingly researched metrics that have shown predictive capability on intensity of workout and athlete fatigue. Previous studies have utilized Catapult Sports technology to measure external workload in MMA athletes but comparative data between two different training sessions remains inadequate. Methods. With the use of the Catapult Vector S7 accelerometer, 18 professional MMA athletes (average age 30.6 years, height 180.8 cm, weight 89.5 kg) participated in both a kickboxing and sparring session and metrics from these sessions were compared using paired t-tests. Data recorded from the accelerometer included PL, PL/Min, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and session duration. Multiple regression analyses examined the effects of age, height, and weight on internal and external load metrics. Results. Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) were identified between sessions. RPE and PL/Min were notably higher during sparring, indicating greater perceived exertion and intensity. Sparring sessions were also shorter in duration than kickboxing (p = 0.002), despite higher RPE (p = 0.008) and PL/Min (p = 0.040). Conclusion. PL/Min and RPE are contributing factors in predicting the intensity and rigor of a training session amongst MMA fighters. MMA, along with soccer, rugby, and basketball, uses accelerometer metrics to monitor athlete load and reduce injury risk. Future studies will look to provide parameters to help coaches and athletes ensure safer training protocols. Grants. N/A.
Included in
Comparative Analysis of External Load Metrics in MMA Sparring and Kickboxing Sessions
Comparative Analysis of External Load Metrics in MMA Sparring and Kickboxing Sessions, Lauren Stern, OMS-II, College of Osteopathic Medicine Objective. This study was conducted to compare external load and intensity metrics during different MMA training modalities. Background. PlayerLoad (PL) and PlayerLoad per Minute (PL/Min) are increasingly researched metrics that have shown predictive capability on intensity of workout and athlete fatigue. Previous studies have utilized Catapult Sports technology to measure external workload in MMA athletes but comparative data between two different training sessions remains inadequate. Methods. With the use of the Catapult Vector S7 accelerometer, 18 professional MMA athletes (average age 30.6 years, height 180.8 cm, weight 89.5 kg) participated in both a kickboxing and sparring session and metrics from these sessions were compared using paired t-tests. Data recorded from the accelerometer included PL, PL/Min, ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and session duration. Multiple regression analyses examined the effects of age, height, and weight on internal and external load metrics. Results. Significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) were identified between sessions. RPE and PL/Min were notably higher during sparring, indicating greater perceived exertion and intensity. Sparring sessions were also shorter in duration than kickboxing (p = 0.002), despite higher RPE (p = 0.008) and PL/Min (p = 0.040). Conclusion. PL/Min and RPE are contributing factors in predicting the intensity and rigor of a training session amongst MMA fighters. MMA, along with soccer, rugby, and basketball, uses accelerometer metrics to monitor athlete load and reduce injury risk. Future studies will look to provide parameters to help coaches and athletes ensure safer training protocols. Grants. N/A.