Energetic cost of running with and without the ball in male basketball players.

This study aimed to assess the energetic cost (C) at different running conditions (RC) with/without the ball (1000m at 80% of VO₂max) during: Linear running, Shuttle running (180°), Linear running with stop and restart, between two groups according to the position/role (guards: n=15; forwards/centres: n=15). Experimental approach to the problem required the following tests/devices: a portable Metabolimeter was used to assess the metabolic parameters for each RC, Squat Jump (OptoJump) to assess the strength’s decrease differences of the lower limbs before/after each test and Ratings of Perceived Exertion (RPE) after each RC to assess the training load, while the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS-IMU) was used to assess the body inclinations and Acceleration/Deceleration for each RC. The T-test was used for independent samples and Two-way repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess the significant differences for each variable between each RC. The results of this study could be useful not only for coaches to optimize basketball training load related to the RC (with and without the ball), but also to optimize the motor learning in young basketball players and to optimize the load of work in relation to the position and energetic capacities of players. The main evidence of this study has confirmed initial hypothesis, showing a different metabolic expenditure in the six running conditions (Linear Running, Linear Running & Stop and restart, Shuttle run with and without ball) and between the two groups taken in consideration (Guards and Forwards/Centres). In addition, different energetic cost between the two groups increases even more during the running with the ball compared to running without the ball.