ABSTRACT
Time-motion analyses are used to indirectly quantify the physical efforts of athletes in training and competition. Information derived from analyses can be used to make objective decisions for structuring the conditioning elements of training and to optimise match preparation. Over recent years, time-motion analysis has grown in popularity, especially at elite levels, mainly due to major advances in computer and video technology and to greater recognition by applied practitioners of its benefits in supplying objective information on physical performance. Indeed, research on physical performance over the last decade has led to the emergence of a comprehensive mass of knowledge on competitive activity profiles across a wide range of sports. While contemporary techniques provide efficient means for the collection and analysis of large amounts of data, scientific validation must have been conducted to ensure information derived from these methods is both accurate and reliable. The number of techniques used to collect data in matches are limited as the rules and regulations in certain sports restrict these approaches and a lack of interchangeability for data derived from different systems suggests the need for a single, internationally accepted ‘gold-standard’ approach. Finally, while the cost of computer and video technology has significantly reduced over the last decade, many of these systems remain expensive and are therefore inaccessible to practitioners at lower levels of the game. Future developments in time-motion analysis are shifting towards the development of miniaturised systems that analyse physical performance data in real-time, allowing objective split-second evaluation and decision making at any moment during performance. The development of intelligent systems is also underway to aid the fitness conditioning process by suggesting pertinent strategies and interventions for optimising training and preparation on the basis of data derived from motion analyses of play.
