Temporal dynamics of external load in high-level amateur padel match play

The aim of this study was to analyze the evolution of external load during official competition in high-level amateur padel players. A total of 45 individual records from 12 players were collected using IMU and GPS sensors (WIMU Pro) during competitive matches. External load variables were analyzed for the entire match and segmented by sets (S1, S2, and S3), considering both absolute and relative per-minute values of effective playing time. The results showed a significant reduction in several absolute external load variables across sets, particularly from the first set to subsequent sets. In contrast, when variables were expressed relative to effective playing time, fewer differences were observed between sets, indicating a relative stability in effort intensity throughout the match. These findings provide novel evidence on the evolution of external load in amateur padel and highlight the importance of considering effective playing time as a determining factor for the accurate interpretation of physical demands and performance monitoring in competitive contexts.