Recent analysis from our Firstbeat big database provides interesting insights into how training time and intensity are distributed among basketball players of various ages.
Our data reveals that younger basketball players tend to spend more time training each week compared to their more experienced counterparts.
For example, an 18-year-old basketball player spends on average almost 11 hours training per week compared to approximately 8.5 hours for a 25-year-old player.
This increased training time highlights the importance of careful load management in youth players as well as professionals to avoid potential overtraining.
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In addition to training duration, the data shows that younger players also spend slightly more time training in maximum heart rate zones.
By tracking heart rate zones, coaches can tailor their training programs to focus on specific endurance capabilities appropriate for each age group, ensuring that the intensity matches the physiological development of the players.
Promoting Long-Term Player Development
Understanding how training time and intensity vary with age allows coaches to plan their programs better to promote long-term player development.
By aligning training practices with each age group’s physiological characteristics and developmental needs, coaches can help ensure that players develop the necessary endurance and skills while minimizing the risk of injury.
How do these findings compare to your training data?
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