Validity of real-time ultra-wideband global navigation satellite system data generated by a wearable microtechnology unit

Johnston, RD, Hewitt, A, and Duthie, G. Validity of real-time ultra-wideband global navigation satellite system data generated by a wearable microtechnology unit. J Strength Cond Res 34(7): 2071–2075, 2020—This study aimed to determine the validity of real-time ultra-wideband data generated by a wearable microtechnology unit during rugby league training sessions using a repeated-measures crossover study. Twenty-four semiprofessional rugby league players wore a commercially available microtechnology device (StatSports Apex, Newry, Northern Ireland) during 10 training sessions. Total distance; moderate-speed running (3.6–4.9 m·s−1); high-speed running (5.0–6.9 m·s−1); very high-speed running (≥7 m·s−1); maximum velocity (m·s−1); the number of high-intensity accelerations (≥2.78 m·s−2) and decelerations (≥−2.78 m·s−2); dynamic stress load (AU); and high metabolic load distance (m) were recorded in real time through an Apex beacon over a secured wireless network before being exported to a csv file at the end of the session. The data were then downloaded to a computer after event. To determine the validity of the real-time data, they were compared with the postevent downloaded data using coefficient of variation and Pearson's correlation coefficient. There was almost perfect agreement between real-time and postevent downloaded data for all variables reported. The overall bias effect size scores were all trivial, ranging from 0.00 for total distance and high-speed running up to −0.12 for maximal velocity; Pearson's correlations were either perfect or nearly perfect (r = 0.98–1.00). Irrespective of the movement speed, the data collected by these devices in real time show excellent levels of agreement with postevent downloaded data.