Date Presented

Spring 5-15-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Department

Exercise Physiology

First Advisor

Dr. Jeffrey Herrick

Second Advisor

Dr. Sean Collins

Third Advisor

Dr. Christine Terry

Abstract

Background: There are 7553 NCAA Division III tennis players, who play with less training coordination than elite players. Most training load research for tennis focuses on elite players, while Division III tennis load research is highly underdeveloped. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to describe the training load in Division III tennis players during resistance training, practices, and matches. The hypothesis is that Division III tennis match external and internal loads will be higher than external and internal loads required during practices. Methods: 6 male and female NCAA Division III tennis players participated in the study. Participants attended 2 regularly scheduled practice, and resistance training sessions along with 1 match. GPS, heart rate (HR), rating of perceived exertion (RPE), and Athlete's Subjective Performance Satisfaction Scale (ASPS) data was obtained. Results: Match performance duration in minutes (p=0.02), total distance in meters (p=0.04), and walk distance in meters (p=0.04) were significantly longer than practice. No other significant differences were found. Resistance training, practice, and match RPE differences were not significant. ASPS average composite score was 60. RPE was the first most predictive model of ASPS and RPE and 2D load were the second most predictive model. Discussion/Conclusion: Performance duration and total distance are likely correlated because the longer a player is on the court, the farther the distance they are likely to travel. These two measurements are likely longer for matches than practices, because there is no determined time limit for a tennis match. Walk distance (m) is likely significantly farther for matches because practices are structured differently than matches.

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