Analysis of the training load during the competitive period in individual rhythmic gymnastics

The aim of this study was twofold: (i) to describe the training load of elite rhythmic gymnastics in training situations and (ii) to examine the relationship between different training indicators with the final score of the gymnasts. Performance data were collected from elite gymnasts (n=7) in competition exercises executed over 10 sessions occurring in the competition period. Three variables were considered: heart rate, subjective rate of perceived exertion, final score achieved by gymnasts. Data were examined using Spearman and Pearson correlation coefficient and paired samples T-test. Results showed that the heart rate average values ranged between 137 and 154 beats per minute. At the end of the competitive period a decrease in the perceived exertion and in the average score of the exercises was observed. The highest scores were achieved in the first sessions (1-3) and the lowest scores in the last sessions (9-10) of the competition period. There is not a clear relationship between RPE, average heart rate and the score achieved by the gymnasts. The findings can contribute to improve training program effectiveness in rhythmic gymnastics.