Abstract
Background: This study aims to compare locomotion metrics between Poland’s Top League and First League at the team level using 10 Hz GPS. Methods: Team-level match data (autumn round) were analysed. The following metrics were computed: total distance, high-speed running (HSR: 19–23 km·h⁻¹ [5.28–6.39 m·s⁻¹]), sprinting (> 23 km·h⁻¹ [> 6.39 m·s⁻¹]), accelerations and decelerations at two thresholds (> 3.0 and > 4.0 m·s⁻²), and Player Load (arbitrary units, tri-axial accelerometry). Between-league differences were tested with Mann–Whitney U; rank-biserial effect sizes were reported. Results: Top League teams covered more sprint and HSR distance and performed more ACC/DEC at both thresholds (all p < 0.05; small–large effects). The total distance was similar between leagues, while the First League showed higher Player Load. Conclusion: Higher-tier competition imposes greater intensity (not necessarily greater volume). The study also provides league-specific reference values for Polish women’s football.
Recommended Citation
Gepfert M, Golas A, Drozd M, Stronska-Grabien K, Sawicki P, Lulinska E. Physical performance differences between top and first league female football players: In-sights from locomotion metrics. Balt J Health Phys Act. 2025;17(4):Article3. DOI: 10.29359/BJHPA.17.4.03
Author ORCID Identifier
Mariola Gepfert; ORCID: 0000-0002-9749-5278
Artur Gołaś; ORCID: 0000-0002-6656-6993
Miłosz Drozd; ORCID: 0000-0002-4477-2390
Katarzyna Strońska-Grabień; ORCID: 0000-0002-9751-3552
Piotr Sawicki; ORCID: 0000-0003-3667-5416
Ewelina Lulińska; ORCID: 0000-0002-1021-8885
Creative Commons License
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