Time to embrace the complexity when analysing GPS data? A systematic review of contextual factors on match running in rugby league

This systematic review aimed to identify and summarise associations between currently identified contextual factors and match running in senior male professional rugby league. Eligible articles included at least one contextual factor and used GPS to measure at least one displacement variable within competitive senior, male, professional rugby league matches. Of the 15 included studies, the identified contextual factors were grouped into factors related to individual characteristics (n = 3), match result (n = 4), team strength (n = 2), opposition strength (n = 3), match conditions (n = 6), technical and tactical demands (n = 6), spatial and temporal characteristics (n = 7), and nutrition (n = 1). Speed was the most commonly reported measure of match running (100%), followed by distance (47%), and acceleration (20%). Inconsistencies were found between studies for most contextual factors on match running. Higher speeds were generally associated with higher fitness, encountered earlier in the match and whilst defending. All 15 studies utilised a univariate approach to quantify associations of a contextual factor. The inconsistencies found in the associations of given contextual factors highlight the complex and multi-faceted nature of match running. Therefore, practitioners should consider contextual factors when analysing and interpreting GPS data.