Inter-individual differences in weekly training load in international-level handball: the effect of congested match schedules

Background: Effective training load (TL) management is crucial for optimizing performance, especially in elite team sports, where congested schedules (≥ two matches a week) are common and can lead to fatigue accumulation. Understanding inter-individual variations in workload is a key to tailor training strategies. This study aimed to analyze inter-individual differences in accumulated TL in elite handball players over a macrocycle of 6 months with special regards to congested schedules. Methods: Fifteen professional players from the first German Handball League were monitored between July and December 2023. External (ACCLOAD, Kinexon, Munich) and internal load measures (sRPE) were recorded across 24 matches and 67 training sessions, The weekly workload accumulated during matches and training was analyzed descriptively. ANOVAs were performed to analyze the impact of the factor "week congestion". Results: Analysis revealed substantial inter-individual differences in accumulated load, with coefficients of variation (CV) ranging from .14 to .27 depending on the measure (ACCLOAD, sRPE). Higher variation was observed during matches than during training, particularly in congested weeks. While no significant effect of week congestion was found for absolute weekly load, inter-individual variation increased in congested weeks. Case comparisons between backcourt and wing players highlighted discrepancies in load accumulation due to differences in playing time and role. Conclusion: These findings underscore the importance of monitoring individual TLs to optimize player performance and minimize fatigue particularly in congested schedules. Coaches should consider compensatory training to address these discrepancies. Our research provides valuable insights into load accumulation in elite team handball, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches to balance performance demands and recovery.