Examining the relationship of training load and menstrual cycle on a web application-based load and recovery score: A longitudinal observational study in elite women's soccer

Abstract

Monitoring training load and recovery is crucial in team sports. Despite the increasing prevalence of professional women's sports, most monitoring methods fail to account for the menstrual cycle (MC). Given the potential influence of the MC on sports performance, training responses, and recovery, incorporating it into monitoring practices is essential. This study assessed the relationship between training load and a newly developed web application-based Load and Recovery Score (LRS) among elite female soccer players. Furthermore, it explored the potential influence of the MC on the individual training responses. Forty-nine female elite soccer players were recruited for this 6-week observational study. The LRS was recorded daily using a web application, and a subgroup of 34 players recorded their basal temperature every morning, using a digital thermometer. Training load was assessed based on trainer-intended ratings of perceived exertion. A significant negative relationship was found between training load and players’ LRS (Est. = −0.009, 95% CI −0.011, −0.007, p < .001). When controlling for training load, no significant effect of the MC on players’ LRS was found (F = 1.274, p = .283). The explained variance of both models was 46.59% and 50.07%, respectively, with a high proportion of variance attributed to random effects (43.67%, and 47.43% respectively). The LRS represents a multifactorial tool that depicts training load in terms of Trainer Session Rating of Perceived Exertion, helping coaches identify athletes’ responses to training stimuli. While the MC did not show a significant effect on the LRS, systematic monitoring should still be considered, as its irregularity may indicate serious health problems.