2.6. Statistical Analyses
Statistical analyses were performed on SPSS software version 18 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Effects of massage on sprint and functional performance were analyzed by Generalized Linear Mixed Model with Gamma distribution, and cumulative logit link function, whereas perceptive outcomes were analyzed by Generalized Estimating Equations with ordinal distribution and cumulative logit link function. Dependent variables were rated by a 5-point Likert scale, and the first category (nothing) was used as a reference unless otherwise stated. Intervention, group, and training time points were used as predictors in the repeated massage models, and for the single massage model, the weekday was also considered. Bonferroni adjustments were used for all significant main effects. Parameter estimates (B) and Exp(B) were reported along with 95% confidence intervals, and descriptive data were reported as means and standard deviation (SD). Pearson’s test was used to explore the correlation between training load and performance, and interpreted as small (0.00–0.25), fair (0.26–0.50), moderate to good (0.51–0.75), and excellent (>0.75) [