Physiological and technical demands of the small-sided and generic games in female futsal players

Abstract Aim: This study aimed to compare the heart rate (HR) values and technical actions frequencies during small-sided (SSG) and generic (GG) games in women futsal players. Methods: Six futsal players (age: 20.5 ± 7.4 years, height: 163.3 ± 16 cm, body mass: 57.9 ± 22 kg, maximum rate of oxygen consumption (VO2max): 42.0 ± 9 mL.kg.min−1) performed two experimental conditions in two days separated for at least 72h of interval: (1) one set of 10 min of SSG, 3x3 players; and (2) one set of 10 min of GG, 4 (1 joker) x 4 (1 joker) players. During each experimental session, the subject's HR values were monitored every 1 min of play. Pass, shot, dribbling, driving, and disarmament were recorded during the games. Results: There was no difference between SSG and GG for HR average (p = 0.50). The HR values that were recorded at the first minute of GG were higher than SSG (p = 0.02). The HRmax in SSG and GG were equivalent to 91.9% and 90.8% of HRmax of the incremental test, respectively. Total technical actions were higher in SSG (+ 18.4%, p = 0.001) than GG. Pass was higher in the SSG (+16%; p = 0.01) in comparison to GG. Conclusion: Both models were higher than HRmax equivalent to AT velocity. The technical actions of the SSG were higher than GG, suggesting that the SSG model is a suitable technical and physiological stimulus for the development of female futsal players.