VARIATIONS ON PERCEIVED EXERTION DECLARED BY JUNIOR ELITE SOCCER PLAYERS IN RELATION TO THE DAY OF THE MATCH

Knowledge of the internal load measured by a method available to coaches is a need for soccer training methodology. Thus, study aims were to analyze the weekly distribution of training and match loads through perceived exertion (PE) declared by elite young soccer players, and to know whether PE in training varies according to the day playing the match. Nineteen soccer players participated in this study during a season. Declared PE was registered during 120 training sessions and 30 official matches. Declared PE was higher during matches than training sessions. Declared PE on Monday and Wednesday in weeks with Saturday match was higher compared to weeks with Sunday match. Monitoring the internal training load according to competition day is suggested.