Anthropometric, physiological and temporal analysis in elite female paddle players

The aim of this study was to analyze anthropometric characteristics, physiological response and structure temporal produced in elite female paddle players (EFPP) during a simulated competition (SC). Six EFPP, with four years minimum experience in official circuit competitions, were selected for this study. Different body measures were registered to obtain the anthropometric profile: body mass, height, 6 skinfolds, 4 girths and 3 breadths. During CS the following variables were recorded: i. Maximum heart rate (HRmax), minimum and medium heart reat (HR(min)andHR (med))on each game, set and final match; ii. Blood lactate levels after each set and lactate levels in minutes 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 during recovery period; iii. Total playing time. Anthropometric values showed a mesoendomorfic somatotype (3.7-4.2-2.5). Physiological results showed that average achieved during SC was 177 +/- 9.2 and 151 +/- 8.1 bmp HRmax and HRmed, respectively. Maximum blood lactate levels showed by EFPP were 2.4 +/- 0.6 mMol.L-1. The mean match time was 56: 11 +/- 00:38 m. Percentage of HRmax during simulated match was 76.3% of maximum value obtained during laboratory test. Blood lactate levels during SC showed that EFPP spent most of the time at aerobic intensities with brief periods at anaerobic intensities. Data obtained in this study provides useful information in EFPP training periodization and performance management.