31 Jul Players’ physical performance in LaLiga across the season: insights for competition continuation after COVID-19
How long does it really take for professional players to reach full match fitness?
This study analyzed 1,520 matches from four full seasons of LaLiga (2015/16 to 2018/19), offering a unique look into the evolution of players’ physical performance across the competitive calendar. The data uncovered a repeatable and actionable trend: it takes 8 to 10 matchdays for players to reach a stable level of physical performance, especially in sprint and high-intensity running.
Although the study was originally framed during the COVID-19 interruption, its real value lies in how it can inform preseason planning and return-to-play strategies under any competitive context.
Key takeaways for coaching and performance staff
Progressive build-up matters
Players do not reach peak physical output immediately after preseason. Instead, their high-speed running and number of sprints increase steadily over the first 8 to 10 games. This pattern is consistent across multiple seasons.
Purposeful movement grows over time
As players ramp up physically, their low-speed movement decreases. This reflects improved tactical engagement, decision-making, and match rhythm.
The performance curve is predictable
After matchday 10, physical metrics typically plateau. In the final few matchdays, a slight decline is observed—likely due to accumulated fatigue or conservative match management.
Practical applications
Rethink early-season expectations
Use early matchdays as part of the build-up process. Benchmark your team’s progress not against mid-season levels, but against historical data from the same matchday range.
Design smarter preseasons
Rather than forcing peak performance by matchday one, structure a progressive load plan that prepares the squad for a competitive ramp-up in the first quarter of the season.
Plan for the curve, not the peak
Understand that most players will not be at their best physically until 500 to 900 minutes into the season. Tailor tactical demands and rotation plans accordingly.
Monitor the end-of-season dip
Be proactive in adjusting training and recovery loads in the final weeks, especially if objectives depend on physical dominance late in the campaign.
Why it’s still relevant today
While this study used historical LaLiga data to anticipate what might happen after a long interruption, its insights are timeless. The same physical progression applies after international breaks, during winter rest periods, and following injury recovery.
Subsequent studies confirmed this performance curve and added layers of understanding—such as the influence of substitutions, fixture congestion, and match context—but this article offers a clean, foundational model for how performance builds week by week.
Peer-reviewed article
Souza DB, González-García J, López-Del Campo R, et al.
Players’ physical performance in LaLiga across the season: insights for competition continuation after COVID-19.
Biology of Sport. 2021;38(1):3–7.
https://doi.org/10.5114/biolsport.2020.96856
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