Activity profile and physiological demand of padel match play

Abstract

Padel is a complex sport within which performance relies on the interrelation of multiple factors such as physiological and physical capacities, psychological skills, and tactical and technical knowledge. Padel match involves intermittent whole-body efforts, evidenced by a large number of strokes and repeated high-intensity running actions such as accelerations, decelerations and changes of direction. Due to its recent creation, little is known about the activity and energy demands of padel match play. The purpose of the present study was to systematically review physiological demands of padel match play by assessing parameters related to external load, such as notational analysis or time-motion studies, and internal load through the analysis of physiological responses during the match. The systematic review process was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. The electronic databases PubMed, Scopus and SportDiscus were searched using: (“padel” OR “pádel” OR “paddle tennis”). Twelve papers matched the inclusion criteria, from which four addressed internal load, six external load, and two analyzed both. A total of 203 padel players across all competition levels participated in the 12 selected studies. Study outcomes have probed prevalence of moderate physiological responses, low contribution of anaerobic glycolytic processes to supply energy, O2 not being a limiting factor, and moderate to relatively high perceived effort rate. The highest game durations were found in professional players. Work-to-rest ratios reaffirm the intermittent nature of padel. Distance covered per set and match as well as speed are reciprocally proportional to player’s standard level.