The Use of Global Positioning Systems Devices to Measure Maximum Velocity in Field-Based Team Sport Athletes: A Narrative Review

Abstract

ABSTRACT The maximum velocity achieved during sprinting is a crucial aspect in various sports. Therefore, practitioners use various devices, such as laser or radar guns, timing gates (TG), and global positioning systems (GPS), to assess sprint performance. Although high-speed cameras are considered the most accurate equipment for assessing maximum velocity (V max), TG are more commonly used because of their practicality and affordability. Recently, GPS technology has gained attention from the sport science community, primarily because of its applied characteristics, enabling “in situ” data exploration. However, there is currently no consensus on the validity, reliability, and sensitivity of GPS in field-based team sports not only for measuring V max but also for tracking potential changes in sprint performance. We thoroughly examined the existing literature on the validity, reliability, and sensitivity of GPS technology for measuring V max, with a specific emphasis on its application in team sports. Furthermore, we offer a comprehensive discussion on the capability of these devices to assess potential variations in V max. By synthesizing current research findings, this narrative review sheds light on the strengths and limitations of GPS devices for assessing V max in field-based team sport athletes.