Professional basketball, especially in the NBA, demands an exceptional level of fitness. Players must not only be agile and quick, but also need great endurance to maintain their performance during intense games that can last up to 48 minutes. A recent study by researchers at Stanford University has shed light on the endurance training practices used by NBA players, highlighting their importance in athletic development and on-court performance.

Key findings of the study

Some of the conclusions that became clear from the study were:

• Interval training: One of the most effective methods identified was interval training, which alternates short, intense periods of exercise with periods of rest or less intense activity. This type of training helps improve both aerobic and anaerobic endurance, which is crucial for basketball.
• Altitude training: Some teams have begun to incorporate sessions at simulated altitude to increase lung capacity and improve cardiovascular efficiency. This allows players to better adapt to the physical demands of the game.
• Functional training: there was an increase in the use of functional training, which focuses on movements that mimic the actions performed during a match. This includes exercises that combine strength and agility, which is beneficial for improving basketball-specific performance.
• Active recovery: The study also highlighted the importance of active recovery between intense sessions.

The importance of resistance training

Endurance training refers to any form of exercise that improves the body’s ability to perform prolonged physical activities. For basketball players, this means being able to run, jump and move quickly throughout the game without losing efficiency. Endurance not only affects physical performance, but also influences recovery and injury prevention.

The study conducted by Stanford University analyzed the training routines of several NBA teams, looking at both individual and collective practices. The researchers used advanced technology to measure physical performance and fatigue levels among players before and after different types of workouts.