External and Internal Training Load Adaptability of Basketball Athletes in a Selected University in Chengdu, China

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the internal and external training load adaptability of selected collegiate student-athletes, with a particular focus on identifying variations based on demographic and athletic profiles such as year level, playing experience, position, and weekly training hours. Utilizing a descriptive-comparative research design, data were collected from 60 varsity basketball players through a structured self-assessment questionnaire evaluating seven internal and external training load constructs. Results revealed that all constructs were rated within the “Agree” range, indicating an overall “Adaptable” level of training load responsiveness. Internally, Perceived Exertion (mean = 3.43) and Sleep Quality and Duration (mean = 3.41) emerged as the strongest domains, while Training Impulse and Psychomotor Speed showed relatively lower adaptability. Externally, athletes scored highest in Role-Specific Skill Application (mean = 3.49) and Endurance Management (mean = 3.39), but lowest in Movement Efficiency (mean = 3.14) and Explosive Performance Monitoring (mean = 2.98). Significant differences were observed in several adaptability indicators based on years of playing experience and playing position, but not by year level or training hours. Notably, less experienced athletes showed higher adaptability in both internal and external domains, suggesting the influence of motivation and recent training exposure. The findings highlight the need for more individualized, position-specific, and experience-sensitive training programs. A targeted intervention plan addressing the lowest-rated constructs is recommended to optimize athlete performance, support recovery, and reduce injury risks. This study reinforces the importance of integrating internal and external load monitoring within sports training frameworks, guided by Adaptation Theory, to support holistic athlete development.