The grant will utilise the University’s Sport and Exercise Science Laboratories to take forward its work in assessing sports performance in extreme environments, using the latest in research technology.

Dr Taylor, Senior Lecturer in Exercise Physiology, said he was delighted to receive the prestigious João Havelange Research Scholarship.

“It’s absolutely fantastic news for my research group and the University in general. This grant will enable us to quantify the exact effects heat and altitude can have on footballer’s maximum performance for the first time.

“The research will raise awareness of the potential detrimental effects of extreme environmental conditions can have on performance in matches and the challenges faced to keep players safe when playing soccer in such extreme conditions.

“Given that forthcoming FIFA World Cups (Brazil and Qatar) will be played in extreme temperatures (30^oC+), I am sure our data will be of utmost interest to FIFA and may hopefully inform future policy making.”

The Intermittent Soccer Performance Test (iSPT), co-developed by the University of Bedfordshire, which can precisely measure each individual’s maximum performance in high altitudes and soaring temperatures, is being used in the research to be sent to the world’s footballing governing body.

iSPT, which was validated at the laboratories in Bedford, and was overseen by Dr Taylors PhD research student, Jeffrey Aldous, 23, replicates strict match-play conditions – ordering users when to sprint, jog, or walk for the durations and intensities they’d be expected to during a game. The iSPT will be performed within a custom-made environmental chamber in which the temperature, wind and oxygen (hypoxic) levels can be controlled. It is performed on a non-motorised treadmill (requiring manual movement from your legs, in order for the treadmill belt to move). This enables the user to vary their speed and go as fast, or as slow, as they can – allowing maximum performance over 90 minutes, something rarely seen in matches. iSPT will identify how these environmental extremes effect maximal soccer performance.

The iSPT computer programme (within the chamber) saves a record of each user’s data. Digitally screened charts demonstrate the levels the user needs to reach in order to achieve maximum performance.

In relation to the research and the upcoming Brazil World Cup, Dr Taylor added: “Without doubt footballers, who regularly play in a warmer environment, will be at an advantage compared to those players who do not (eg. UK-based players), come this summer’s World Cup.

“Hopefully in the future iSPT can reveal just how much of an advantage. There are some steps the England team can take to ensure that this disadvantage is minimised, which I am hopeful (as a fan) are already in place, such as appropriate warm weather training and heat acclimation.”

Pilot data is due for completion in May 2014.

NOTES TO EDITOR

iSPT was initially developed in collaboration with Dr Grant Abt (University of Hull) and Dr Ibrahim Akubat (Newman University College). The validity and reliability of the iSPT was recently published in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

Previous research by the group looked at referees and their physical and cognitive performance in a similar hot environment. Conducted for UEFA, this previous referee specific research had a direct influence on policy making within the UEFA region, with goal line technology introduced. To arrange an interview with Dr Taylor, or to arrange filming of the iSPT please contact the press office on 01582 743499 or simon.wesson@beds.ac.uk