The objectives of this study were to quantify training intensity as a function of time spent in three metabolic intensity zones, to compare programmed intensity, measured intensity (heart rate) and estimated intensity (RPE: Rating Perceived Exertion), and then to determine the training loads in 8 high level male tennis players. No difference was found between the time programmed in zones 1 (69.9 ± 4.8 %) and 2 (22.8 ± 4.4 %) and the time spent at a heart rate below Ventilatory Threshold 1 (VT1) (78.9 ± 9.4 %) and between VT1 and Ventilatory Threshold 2 (VT2) (18.3 ± 9.5 %) (p > 0.05). Thus, they trained in accordance with the programmed and recommended intensity distribution by adopting a "pyramid" pattern of intensity distribution. Furthermore, significant differences were found between the percentages of scheduled time and the percentages of perceived time (RPE) for all zones (p < 0.05). The overestimation of the estimated intensity can be explained by their age and the intermittent nature of tennis. Finally, we can note that the programmed training load is like that observed for players of the same age and level.
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