29 Aug HMLD: What is it and why is it important to track?
We know sport science terms can be difficult to understand at times, but to improve your performance, it’s imperative you know what they mean.
Of course, measurements like max speed, total distance, sprints, and accelerations/decelerations are all reasonably obvious. And important.
But the more obscure metrics can be equally significant. And, in some cases, vital to improving your fitness and avoiding injuries.
What is HMLD?
HMLD is an acronym for STATSports’ custom metric, High Metabolic Load Distance. It is a metric which measures the total amount of high speed running an athlete does, coupled with the total distance of accelerations and decelerations throughout a session.
Still confused? Essentially, it’s the intensity at which your body is working at. At the end of your session, after you sync your data, you will be given a HMLD score which you will see in your Apex Athlete Series app.
Why is HMLD important to track?
Imagine your car’s dashboard. It has a speedometer to tell you know fast you’re going (max speed) and a tachometer that measures the car’s RPM which assists with gear shifting and timing (HMLD).
The tachometer will always have a red line that helps to prevent “red lining” the engine, which can cause significant damage.
Think of your HMLD score as your tachometer. By measuring that score on a session-by-session basis, you’ll be able to better gauge if your efforts have been over-intensive and whether or not your body may need a greater recovery period.
Important considerations regarding HMLD
Don’t panic if your HMLD is lower or higher than your teammate. Every individual’s score will be different due to several different factors. Position plays a big part in this.
For instance, if you’re a centre-back, your score will naturally be much lower than a full-back, who naturally do more high-speed running up and down the wing.
The location and code of the sport you’re playing can also play a part. If you’re playing 11-a-side football on a regular size pitch, your HMLD score will also be lower than if you’re playing a 5-a-side or 7-a-side on a smaller pitch.
So, there you have it – HMLD broken down in its simplest form. Now, are you ready for some high-speed running?
