Monday, 20 May 2024

Why Do Football Players Wear GPS Vests?

soccer bra

Introduction

Have you ever wondered why your favorite football players wear those GPS vests during training and games? You might have seen them and wondered, “Why is Mbappe wearing a sports bra during training?” or “Why are all these players wearing black sports bras under their jerseys?” Well, let’s find out the reasons behind it.

Tracking Performance with GPS Vests

The truth is that football players wear vests, not sports bras, during training and games. These vests are equipped with GPS technology to track and measure their performance on the field. The vests are designed to hold a pod between the shoulder blades, which contains a 10Hz GPS, an accelerometer, and a magnetometer.

GPS vest

These devices capture over 1250 data points per second, providing valuable insights into the players’ physical exertion. They measure metrics such as total distance covered, top speed, number of sprints, sprint distance, power, load, intensity, and more. This data is then analyzed by players, coaches, sport scientists, physiotherapists, and strength and conditioning coaches to optimize training, reduce injury risks, and enhance overall performance.

Why the Vest Looks Like a Sports Bra

You might be wondering why the GPS device is placed in a vest that resembles a sports bra rather than being worn on the wrist or waist. There are two main reasons for this:

  1. Optimal Positioning: The vest holds the pod in the optimal position for tracking, ensuring that it can effectively communicate with GPS satellites. This positioning enhances the accuracy and reliability of the data captured.

  2. Safety: Placing the GPS device in a vest is the safest option for physical sports like soccer, rugby, basketball, and football. Wearing it on the wrist or waist could pose potential injury risks during intense physical activities.

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Helpful for Amateur Players Too

GPS vests are not just for professional football players. In fact, they can be even more beneficial for amateur players who want to elevate their game. Access to data is crucial for improvement, and GPS vests provide valuable insights that can help players identify areas for growth. While not everyone has access to professional sports scientists or club data, Catapult One offers a solution. With 15 years of experience working with top clubs like Chelsea, Real Madrid, Ajax, and Borussia Dortmund, Catapult One provides amateur players and coaches with the same technology and data as the pros.

FAQs

Where can I get a GPS vest?

To get your own GPS vest, you can join Catapult One here.

Conclusion

Football players wear GPS vests during training and games to track and measure their performance. These vests, designed to hold a pod with GPS technology, provide valuable data that helps players, coaches, and sport scientists optimize training, prevent injuries, and enhance overall performance. GPS vests are not limited to professional players; they can also benefit amateur players who want to take their game to the next level. With the right data and insights, players can improve their skills and reach new heights in their football journey.