title: Individualization of time-motion analysis: a case-cohort example.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To report the intensity distribution of Premier League soccer players' external loads during match play, according to recognized physiological thresholds. The authors also present a case in which individualized speed thresholds changed the interpretation of time-motion data.
  
  
  METHODS
  Eight outfield players performed an incremental treadmill test to exhaustion to determine the running speeds associated with their ventilatory thresholds. The running speeds were then used to individualize time-motion data collected in 5 competitive fixtures and compared with commonly applied arbitrary speed zones.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of the total distance covered, 26%, 57%, and 17% were performed at low, moderate, and high intensity, respectively. Individualized time-motion data identified a 41% difference in the high-intensity distance covered between 2 players of the same positional role, whereas the player-independent approach yielded negligible (5-7%) differences in total and high-speed distances covered.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The authors recommend that individualized speed thresholds be applied to time-motion-analysis data in synergy with the traditional arbitrary approach.
authors.affiliation: School of Science and Health, University of Western Sydney, Penrith South, NSW, Australia.
authors.forename: Ric
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Lovell
authors.forename: Grant
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Abt
mesh_terms: D054874:Athletic Performance / Q000502:physiology; D015331:Cohort Studies; D006801:Humans; D010101:Oxygen Consumption / Q000502:physiology; D012123:Pulmonary Ventilation / Q000502:physiology; D012916:Soccer / Q000502:physiology*; D013996:Time and Motion Studies; D055815:Young Adult