Validity of a new tracking device for futsal match

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to to evaluate the validity of a new IMU device that allows measuring different actions in futsal real game situations.

Methods: 10 high elite futsal players performed a typical futsal training task, this is, a 4v4 in 28x20m with a duration of 180 seconds, where players worn two tracking devices, the new one (OLIVER) and the already validated device (WIMU). Data recorded by the OLIVER and WIMU PRO systems were compared after the training process. Descriptive analysis was performed for each variable, and a one-way ANOVA was developed to calculate the validity of OLIVER compared with WIMU report.

Results: The results reported good validity for most of the variables analyzed, such as total distance, distance covered in different splits, as well as number of accelerations and decelerations and maximal speed (P > .05). However, distance covered at low velocity (0-6 km/h) and high acceleration quantity (>2m/s²) reported statistical differences from OLIVER to WIMU.

Conclusion: The OLIVER system can be stated as a valid technology for monitoring external load in specific training tasks in futsal, which ensures an improvement in the monitoring training process