Periodization of training loads in youth basketball players: implications for physical and technical-tactical performance, immunity, hormonal profile and stress tolerance

Abstract

The annual competitive calendar is characterized by the relatively short preparation period, followed by the long competitive season. This current scenario reveals the importance of adopting periodization training strategies, aiming to maximizing performance. However, there is still little evidence of the effectiveness of periodization approaches widely used by coaches and strength and conditioning trainers. These models, in general, are based on theoretical postulates and present disconnection with the current reality of elite performance sports. In this sense, it has been proposed that the theory of periodization be realigned with the contemporary demands of sports. The general objective of the present study is to verify the effect of the training load manipulation strategy through the implementation of periods of intensification and tapering, using strength training, on performance, immunity, hormonal profile and stress tolerance In young basketball players. The sample will be composed of basketball players of the sub-15, sub-17 and sub-19 categories (10 to 15 players, by age-category), belonging to a club, participating in the State Basketball Championship. Athletes will undergo a semester of training program, which will include a period of intensification of training loads (Overloading), followed by a recovery period (Tapering), and a maintenance period. This model will be applied in 2 semesters. For each of the 2 training macrocicles (investigation), the athletes will be evaluated in three distinct time points: before the beginning of the intensification (T1), at the end of the intensification period (T2), at the end of the Tapering period (T3). In each of these time points the evaluation will be performed as follows: on the first day, saliva will be collected for analysis of the salivary immunoglobulin A (SIgA), cortisol concentration and testosterone concentration, followed by anthropometric and body composition measurements , and, then, the physical tests (40-meter T-test and repeated sprints (SR)). On the second day, the Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery level 1 test (YYIR1) will be performed. On the third day of assessment, players will participate in small sided games, for analysis of technical and tactical performance. Throughout the experiment, at the end of each week, players will respond to POMS (mood states), DALDA (stress tolerance), and Wisconsin Upper Respiratory Symptom Survey-21 (WURSS-21) episodes and severity of upper respiratory tract infections). (AU)