Journal articles: 'Training prescription in rugby union'

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Delaney, Jace A., Heidi R. Thornton, John F. Pryor, Andrew M. Stewart, Ben J. Dascombe, and Grant M. Duthie. "Peak Running Intensity of International Rugby: Implications for Training Prescription." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 12, no. 8 (September 2017): 1039–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2016-0469.

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Purpose:To quantify the duration and position-specific peak running intensities of international rugby union for the prescription and monitoring of specific training methodologies.Methods:Global positioning systems (GPS) were used to assess the activity profile of 67 elite-level rugby union players from 2 nations across 33 international matches. A moving-average approach was used to identify the peak relative distance (m/min), average acceleration/deceleration (AveAcc; m/s2), and average metabolic power (Pmet) for a range of durations (1–10 min). Differences between positions and durations were described using a magnitude-based network.Results:Peak running intensity increased as the length of the moving average decreased. There were likely small to moderate increases in relative distance and AveAcc for outside backs, halfbacks, and loose forwards compared with the tight 5 group across all moving-average durations (effect size [ES] = 0.27–1.00). Pmet demands were at least likely greater for outside backs and halfbacks than for the tight 5 (ES = 0.86–0.99). Halfbacks demonstrated the greatest relative distance and Pmet outputs but were similar to outside backs and loose forwards in AveAcc demands.Conclusions:The current study has presented a framework to describe the peak running intensities achieved during international rugby competition by position, which are considerably higher than previously reported whole-period averages. These data provide further knowledge of the peak activity profiles of international rugby competition, and this information can be used to assist coaches and practitioners in adequately preparing athletes for the most demanding periods of play.

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Hartwig, Timothy B., Geraldine Naughton, and John Searl. "Defining the Volume and Intensity of Sport Participation in Adolescent Rugby Union Players." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 3, no. 1 (March 2008): 94–106. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.3.1.94.

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Purpose:Investigating adolescent training loads might help us understand optimal training adaptations. GPS tracking devices and training diaries were used to quantify weekly sport and other physical activity demands placed on adolescent rugby union players and profile typical rugby training sessions.Methods:Participants were 75 males age 14 to 18 y who were recruited from rugby teams representing 3 levels of participation: schoolboy, national representative, and a selective sports school talent squad.Results:Schoolboy players covered a distance of (mean ± SD) 3511 ± 836 m, representative-squad players 3576 ± 956 m, and talent-squad players 2208 ± 637 m per rugby training session. The representative squad recorded the highest weekly duration of sport and physical activity (515 ± 222 min/wk), followed by the talent squad (421 ± 211 min/week) and schoolboy group (370 ± 135 min/wk). Profiles of individual players identified as group outliers showed participation in up to 3 games and up to 11 training sessions per week, with twice the weekly load of the team averages.Conclusion:Optimal participation and performance of adolescent rugby union players might be compromised by many high-load, high-impact training sessions and games and commitments to other sports and physical activities. An improved understanding of monitoring and quantifying load in adolescent athletes is needed to facilitate best-practice advice for player management and training prescription.

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Griffin, Alan, Ian C. Kenny, Thomas M. Comyns, and Mark Lyons. "The Development and Evaluation of a Training Monitoring System for Amateur Rugby Union." Applied Sciences 10, no. 21 (November 4, 2020): 7816. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/app10217816.

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A training monitoring system (TMS) should be both attainable and scientifically grounded; however, the optimal method of monitoring training is not yet fully understood. The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate an online TMS for amateur rugby union. The experimental approach to the problem consisted of five phases: (1) establishing the current training and training load (TL) monitoring practices of amateur rugby union teams, (2) designing and developing the TMS, (3) recruiting teams and subsequently introducing the TMS, (4) supporting the strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches using the TMS, and (5) evaluating the TMS. The findings of this study support the use of an online TMS as a useful and effective method of facilitating training prescription and design in an effort to reduce injury risk and enhance performance. The main barriers impeding player compliance are the lack of feedback on their data and evidence of its use in training design, coaching, and prescription. The effectiveness of the system is dependent on the extent to which the associated challenges are mitigated to ensure quality and consistent data. However, this study offers a method of monitoring training that can be effective while also establishing pitfalls to avoid for both practitioners and researchers alike.

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West, Stephen W., Sean Williams, Simon P. T. Kemp, Robin Eager, Matthew J. Cross, and Keith A. Stokes. "Training Load, Injury Burden, and Team Success in Professional Rugby Union: Risk Versus Reward." Journal of Athletic Training 55, no. 9 (August 20, 2020): 960–66. http://dx.doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050-0387.19.

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Context Individual and team injury burden and performance are 2 key considerations facing practitioners in the daily prescription of an athlete's training load. Whereas a considerable number of researchers have examined univariate relationships between training load and performance, training load and injury, or injury and performance, few investigators have examined all 3 concurrently. Objective To assess the association among training load, injury burden, and performance in professional rugby union. Design Descriptive epidemiology study. Setting The English Premiership competition. Patients or Other Participants Individual injury and training load data, as well as team performance data, were captured during the 2015–2016 (n = 433 players) and 2016–2017 (n = 569 players) seasons. Main Outcome Measure(s) Data were aggregated into team average scores for each week, including weekly (acute) load, smoothed chronic load, changes in load, injury burden, and weekly performance. Linear mixed modelling techniques were used to assess the association among measures. Results Injury burden was negatively associated with performance, with a high weekly burden associated with a likely harmful (P = .01) decrease in performance. Training load measures displayed only trivial associations with performance. Only the acute:chronic workload ratio measure was clearly associated with injury burden, with a possibly harmful effect (P = .02). Both squad size and player availability were associated with only trivial changes in performance. Conclusions Whereas no association between average training load and performance existed, associations between training load and injury burden and between injury burden and performance were clear. Further investigation using more sensitive and individualized measures of load, performance, and injury may elicit a clearer relationship and should be considered for future work.

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Pareja-Blanco, Fernando, Lucas A. Pereira, Valter P. Reis, Victor Fernandes, Ademir F. S. Arruda, Aristide Guerriero, Pedro E. Alcaraz, Tomás T. Freitas, and Irineu Loturco. "Impact of Sled Loads on Performance and Kinematics of Elite Sprinters and Rugby Players." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 17, no. 3 (March 1, 2022): 465–73. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2020-0867.

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Purpose: To examine the changes in resisted sprint performance and kinematics provoked by different sled loads in elite sprinters and rugby players. Methods: Eight elite male sprinters and 10 rugby union players performed 20-m sprints under 3 loading conditions (0%, 20%, and 60% body mass [BM]). Sprint time was measured in 0 to 5, 5 to 10, and 10 to 20 m, while stride length and hip, knee, and ankle angles were measured using an 8-sensor motion analysis system at the same distances. Results: Sprinters were significantly faster than rugby players in unresisted and resisted sprints using 20% BM (effect size, “ES” [90% confidence limit, CL] range: 0.65 [0.03 to 1.27]; 3.95 [3.10 to 4.81]), but these differences were not significant at 60% BM. Compared to rugby players, sprinters showed lower velocity decrement in resisted sprints using 20% BM (ES [90% CL] range: 0.75 [0.06 to 1.44]; 2.43 [0.83 to 4.02], but higher velocity decrement using 60% BM (ES [90% CL] range: 1.13 [0.43 to 1.82]; 1.46 [0.81 to 2.11]). No significant differences were detected in stride length between sprinters and rugby players for any sprint condition (ES [90% CL] range: 0.02 [−0.72 to 0.76]; 0.84 [0.13 to 1.54]). Rugby players showed higher hip flexion in resisted sprints (ES [90% CL] range: 0.30 [−0.54 to 1.14]; 1.17 [0.20 to 2.15]) and lower plantar flexion in both unresisted and resisted sprints (ES [90% CL] range: 0.78 [0.18 to 1.38]; 1.69 [1.00 to 2.38] than sprinters. Conclusions: The alterations induced by resisted sprints in sprint velocity and running technique differed between sprinters and rugby players. Some caution should be taken with general sled loads prescriptions, especially when relative loads are based on distinct percentages of BM, as training responses vary among sports and individuals.

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Hendricks, Sharief, Kevin Till, Dan Weaving, Alun Powell, Simon Kemp, Keith Stokes, and Ben Jones. "Training, match and non-rugby activities in elite male youth rugby union players in England." International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching 14, no. 3 (February 13, 2019): 336–43. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1747954119829289.

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Rugby union is a late specialisation sport. As a consequence, youth players may still be engaged in other activities and sports throughout the year as they transition to rugby specialisation. Limited research exists quantifying rugby union training and matches as well as engagement in other activities and sports. Therefore, the aim of this study was to quantify and compare rugby union training, matches and other activities of elite youth U15 and U16 rugby union players at different stages of the season. Four-hundred and ninety-two youth (Under-15 and 16-year-old) rugby union players self-reported the frequency, intensity and duration of their participation in rugby union matches, rugby union training, gym, physical education and other sports during three different stages – September to December (Sept–Dec), January to April (Jan–Apr), May to August (May–Aug) – of the year. When all activities were combined, the frequency and volume of rugby matches and training was the greatest during the Sept–Dec stage. The frequency and volume of participating in other sports increased in the May–Aug stage of the season. Gym training frequency, intensity, and duration were stable across the year for both U15 and U16 players. Coaches and practitioners working with elite youth rugby union players should be aware that players are still participating in other activities outside of rugby training and competition. Coaches and practitioners should put structures in place to plan and monitor players' activities in order to optimise the positive outcomes of specialisation (e.g., expertise) while reducing the potential negative outcomes (e.g., injury, burnout).

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Vaz, Luís, Bruno Figueira, and Bruno Gonçalves. "Classifying youth rugby union players by training performances." International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport 15, no. 1 (March 2015): 159–71. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/24748668.2015.11868784.

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Hendricks, Sharief, Kevin Till, James Craig Brown, and Ben Jones. "Rugby union needs a contact skill-training programme." British Journal of Sports Medicine 51, no. 10 (November 7, 2016): 829–30. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2016-096347.

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Engelbrecht, Louise, Elmarie Terblanche, and Karen E. Welman. "Video-based perceptual training as a method to improve reactive agility performance in rugby union players." International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching 11, no. 6 (November 29, 2016): 799–809. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1747954116676106.

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This study investigated the effectiveness of rugby-specific video-based perceptual training on the speed and agility of club-level rugby union players. Twenty-six players were randomly divided into either a video-based, field-based or conventional training group. For six weeks, the video-based and field-based groups performed agility training twice a week in addition to their regular rugby training, while the control group was restricted to regular rugby training. Speed, reactive agility and change of direction speed were tested pre- and post-intervention, and after a six-week retention period. Results revealed that both video- and field-based training were almost certainly more beneficial (13% and 17%, respectively) to improve reactive agility compared to conventional rugby training alone. In addition, both intervention groups maintained their reactive agility improvements following the retention period. Consequently, video-based training, likely because of a perceptual component, could be used as an alternative training method to improve reactive agility.

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Fuller, Colin, Aileen Taylor, Marc Douglas, and Martin Raftery. "Rugby World Cup 2019 injury surveillance study." South African Journal of Sports Medicine 32, no. 1 (May 4, 2020): 1–6. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2078-516x/2020/v32i1a8062.

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Background: Full contact team sports, such as rugby union, have high incidences of injury. Injury surveillance studies underpin player welfare programmes in rugby union. Objective: To determine the incidence, severity, nature and causes of injuries sustained during the Rugby World Cup 2019. Methods: A prospective, whole population study following the definitions and procedures recommended in the consensus statement for epidemiologic studies in rugby union. Output measures included players’ age (years), stature (cm), body mass (kg), playing position, and group-level incidence (injuries/1000 player-hours), severity (days- absence), injury burden (days absence/1000 player-hours), location (%), type (%) and inciting event (%) of injuries. Results: Overall incidences of injury were 79.4 match injuries/1000 player-match-hours (95% CI: 67.4 to 93.6) and 1.5 training injuries/1000 player-training-hours (95% CI: 1.0 to 2.3). The overall mean severity of injury was 28.9 (95% CI: 20.0 to 37.8) days absence during matches and 14.8 (95% CI: 4.1 to 25.5) days absence during training. The most common locations and types of match injuries were head/face (22.4%), posterior thigh (12.6%), ligament sprain (21.7%) and muscle strain (20.3%); the ankle (24.0%), posterior thigh (16.0%), muscle strain (44.0%) and ligament sprain (16.0%) were the most common locations and types of injuries during training. Tackling (28.7%), collisions (16.9%) and running (16.9%) were responsible for most match injuries and non-contact (36.0%) and contact (32.0%) rugby skills activities for training injuries. Conclusion: The incidence, severity, nature and inciting events associated with match and training injuries at Rugby World Cup 2019 were similar to those reported for Rugby World Cups 2007, 2011 and 2015.

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Hendricks, Sharief, Martin Sarembock, Ben Jones, Kevin Till, and Mike Lambert. "The tackle in South African youth rugby union – Gap between coaches' knowledge and training behaviour." International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching 12, no. 6 (November 2, 2017): 708–15. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1747954117738880.

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In youth rugby union matches, tackle-related injuries account for 60% of all injuries, 62% of concussion injuries and almost 50% of spinal cord injuries (youth and amateur). Because of this high risk of injury, the inclusion of the tackle in youth rugby has been a topic of discussion in the public and a high priority research area for World Rugby. What a coach knows and his/her attitude toward player safety directly impacts the risk and performance profile of a player. The purpose of this study is to describe the tackle knowledge, attitudes and training behaviours of youth rugby coaches. The entire population of Western Province Rugby Union Premier A1 division (highest level of school rugby) under-19 rugby coaches (n = 8) completed a knowledge and attitude questionnaire and 96 field-training sessions were observed over four weeks. Coaches rated tackling (mean 3.9, 95% confidence interval 3.3–4.4), rucking (mean 3.8, 95% confidence interval 3.0–4.5) and ball-carrying (mean 3.6, 95% confidence interval 2.6–4.6) as high-risk of injury facets of play ( H = 30.8, p < 0.001). Coaching proper technique was rated as very important for safety (mean 4.6, 95% confidence interval 4.2–5.0) and performance (mean 4.8, 95% confidence interval 4.4–5.0, U = 28, p > 0.05). Of the 96 observed training sessions, tackle training was recorded 16% of the time (vs. 84% no tackle training, p < 0.001). Coaches were aware of the risk of injury in the tackle and rated the coaching of proper technique of utmost importance. These positive knowledge and attitudes did not transfer into their tackle training. The discrepancy between coaches' tackle knowledge and attitudes, and their training of the tackle might be related to how competent they believe themselves to be in delivering tackle training.

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Roe, Gregory, Joshua Darrall-Jones, Kevin Till, Padraic Phibbs, Dale Read, Jonathon Weakley, and Ben Jones. "To Jump or Cycle? Monitoring Neuromuscular Function in Rugby Union Players." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 12, no. 5 (May 2017): 690–96. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2016-0273.

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Purpose:To evaluate changes in performance of a 6-s cycle-ergometer test (CET) and countermovement jump (CMJ) during a 6-wk training block in professional rugby union players.Methods:Twelve young professional rugby union players performed 2 CETs and CMJs on the 1st and 4th mornings of every week before the commencement of daily training during a 6-wk training block. Standardized changes in the highest score of 2 CET and CMJ efforts were assessed using linear mixed modeling and magnitude-based inferences.Results:After increases in training load during wk 3 to 5, moderate decreases in CMJ peak and mean power and small decreases in flight time were observed during wk 5 and 6 that were very likely to almost certainly greater than the smallest worthwhile change (SWC), suggesting neuromuscular fatigue. However, only small decreases, possibly greater than the SWC, were observed in CET peak power. Changes in CMJ peak and mean power were moderately greater than in CET peak power during this period, while the difference between flight time and CET peak power was small.Conclusion:The greater weekly changes in CMJ metrics in comparison with CET may indicate differences in the capacities of these tests to measure training-induced lower-body neuromuscular fatigue in rugby union players. However, future research is needed to ascertain the specific modes of training that elicit changes in CMJ and CET to determine the efficacy of each test for monitoring neuromuscular function in rugby union players.

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Beard, Adam, John Ashby, Ryan Chambers, Franck Brocherie, and Grégoire P. Millet. "Repeated-Sprint Training in Hypoxia in International Rugby Union Players." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 14, no. 6 (July 1, 2019): 850–54. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2018-0170.

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Purpose: To investigate the effects of repeated-sprint training in hypoxia vs in normoxia on world-level male rugby union players’ repeated-sprint ability (RSA) during an international competition period. Methods: A total of 19 players belonging to an international rugby union senior male national team performed 4 sessions of cycling repeated sprints (consisting of 3 × eight 10-s sprints with 20 s passive recovery) either in normobaric hypoxia (RSH, 3000 m; n = 10) or in normoxia (RSN, 300 m; n = 9) over a 2-wk period. Before and after the training intervention, RSA was evaluated using a cycling repeated-sprint test (6 × 10-s maximal sprint and 20-s passive recovery) performed in normoxia. Results: Significant interaction effects (all P < .05, ) between condition and time were found for RSA-related parameters. Compared with Pre, maximal power significantly improved at Post in RSH (12.84 [0.83] vs 13.63 [1.03] W·kg−1, P < .01, ) but not in RSN (13.17 [0.89] vs 13.00 [1.01] W·kg−1, P = .45, ). Mean power was also significantly enhanced from Pre to Post in RSH (11.15 [0.58] vs 11.86 [0.63] W·kg−1, P < .001, ), whereas it remained unchanged in RSN (11.54 [0.61] vs 11.75 [0.65] W·kg−1, P = .23, ). Conclusion: As few as 4 dedicated specific RSH sessions were beneficial to enhance repeated power production in world-level rugby union players. Although the improvement from RSA to game behavior remains unclear, this finding appears to be of practical relevance as only a short preparation window is available prior to international rugby union games.

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Weaving, Dan, Nicholas E. Dalton, Christopher Black, Joshua Darrall-Jones, Padraic J. Phibbs, Michael Gray, Ben Jones, and Gregory A. B. Roe. "The Same Story or a Unique Novel? Within-Participant Principal-Component Analysis of Measures of Training Load in Professional Rugby Union Skills Training." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 13, no. 9 (October 1, 2018): 1175–81. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2017-0565.

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Purpose: To identify which combination metrics of external and internal training load (TL) capture similar or unique information for individual professional players during skills training in rugby union using principal-component (PC) analysis. Methods: TL data were collected from 21 male professional rugby union players across a competitive season. This included PlayerLoad™, total distance, and individualized high-speed distance (>61% maximal velocity; all external TL) obtained from a microtechnology device (OptimEye X4; Catapult Innovations, Melbourne, Australia) that was worn by each player and the session rating of perceived exertion (RPE) (internal TL). PC analysis was conducted on each individual to extract the underlying combinations of the 4 TL measures that best describe the total information (variance) provided by the measures. TL measures with PC loadings (PCL) above 0.7 were deemed to possess well-defined relationships with the extracted PC. Results: The findings show that from the 4 TL measures, the majority of an individual’s TL information (first PC: 55–70%) during skills training can be explained by session RPE (PCL: 0.72–0.95), total distance (PCL: 0.86–0.98), or PlayerLoad (PCL: 0.71–0.98). High-speed distance was the only variable to relate to the second PC (PCL: 0.72–1.00), which captured additional TL information (+19–28%). Conclusions: Findings suggest that practitioners could quantify the TL of rugby union skills training with one of PlayerLoad, total distance, or session RPE plus high-speed distance while limiting omitted information of the TL imposed during professional rugby union skills training.

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Ball, Shane, Mark Halaki, Tristan Sharp, and Rhonda Orr. "Injury Patterns, Physiological Profile, and Performance in University Rugby Union." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 13, no. 1 (January 1, 2018): 69–74. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2017-0023.

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Context: Rugby union is a physically demanding collision sport with high injury rates. There is a common perception that higher training loads result in greater injury risk in field-based sports. Objectives: To determine injury, anthropometric, and physical-performance characteristics in junior rugby union players and investigate the interaction between training load and injury across a competitive season. Design: Prospective cohort study. Methods: Fifty-one players (age 19.2 ± 0.7 y) from an under-20 university rugby union team (forwards, n = 27; backs, n = 24) participated in a study conducted over a competition season. Training load, injury characteristics, anthropometry, physiological performance, and match time-loss injury incidence were observed. Results: Backs had significantly lower body mass (ES [95% CI] = 1.6 [0.9, 2.2]), skinfold thickness (ES = 1.1 [0.5, 1.7]), strength (squat ES = 0.6 [0.0, 1.2], deadlift ES = 0.6 [0.0, 1.1], bench press ES = 0.9 [0.4, 1.5]), lower-body power (ES = 0.4 [−0.2, 1.0]), and higher maximal aerobic capacity (ES = −0.3 [−0.8, 0.3]) than forwards. Match injury incidence was 107.3 injuries/1000 player hours (forwards 91.4/1000, backs 125.5/1000) during preseason and 110.7 injuries/1000 player hours (forwards 124.1/1000, backs 95.2/1000) during in-season. Forwards showed higher incidence of joint and ligament (P = .049) and upper-limb (P = .011) injuries than backs. No significant relationship between overall training load and match injury incidence was found. However, lower match injury incidence was associated with higher weekly training volume in backs (P = .007). Conclusions: Positional differences in body composition, performance, injury characteristics, and match injury patterns were identified in junior university rugby union players, indicating the need for position-specific training programs to reduce risk of injury.

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Sankey, R. Andrew, John H. M. Brooks, Simon P. T. Kemp, and Fares S. Haddad. "The Epidemiology of Ankle Injuries in Professional Rugby Union Players." American Journal of Sports Medicine 36, no. 12 (September 8, 2008): 2415–24. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0363546508322889.

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Background Ankle injuries represent a considerable proportion of injuries to professional rugby union players; however, there is a scarcity of detailed epidemiology about these injuries. Purpose To describe the epidemiology and assess the risk factors associated with ankle injuries sustained by a cohort of professional rugby union players. Study Design Descriptive epidemiology study. Method Medical personnel prospectively reported time-loss injuries in professional rugby union in England, and the ankle injuries were evaluated. Results Lateral ankle ligament injuries were the most common injury reported during matches and training, and together with Achilles tendon injuries, they accounted for more than half of the absence due to injury. The incidence rate of injuries was highest in second-row forwards. More than a quarter of injuries were recurrences. Conclusion Lateral ankle ligament injuries and Achilles tendon injuries should be a focus of injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies in professional rugby union players.

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Gordon, Greg, Heather Morris-Eyton, and Alliance Kubayi. "Match loads of university rugby union players between the 2016 and 2018 Varsity Cup competitions." South African Journal of Sports Medicine 32, no. 1 (July 27, 2020): 1–4. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2078-516x/2020/v32i1a7949.

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Background: Rugby union is a popular and continuously growing sport globally. With the advance of technology, practices have been implemented to quantify the match running demands of rugby union players. The aim of this study was to analyse the match loads of rugby union players between the 2016 and 2018 Varsity Cup competitions. Methods: The sample consisted of 562 match observations of male university rugby union players competing in the Varsity Cup tournaments. Results: The backline players ran significantly longer total distances (5105 m; p = 0.001; ES = 0.49); have greater high- speed running (496 m; p = 0.001; ES = 1.03), very high-speed running (260 m; p = 0.001; ES = 1.50) and sprint distances (117 m; p = 0.001; ES = 1.32) than forward players. Backline players also accumulated a high number of metres per minute (238 ± 94; p = 0.001; ES = 0.46), total Player Load (488 ± 203; p = 0.001; ES = 0.31), RHIE (9 ± 8; p = 0.001; ES = 0.75) and number of accelerations (4 ± 5; p = 0.001; ES = 0.49). Conclusion: These findings may assist coaches to develop player position specific training programmes to meet the physical demands of rugby. Keywords: rugby union, match loads, physical demands, position

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Mascarenhas, Duncan R. D., Dave Collins, Patrick W. Mortimer, and Bob Morris. "Training Accurate and Coherent Decision Making in Rugby Union Referees." Sport Psychologist 19, no. 2 (June 2005): 131–47. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/tsp.19.2.131.

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The purpose of this investigation was to pilot a video-based training program designed to develop referees’ shared mental models. A group of English Rugby Football Union (RFU) national referees, divided into a control group (n = 15) and experimental group (n = 41) made their immediate decisions on pre and posttests of 10 video clips taken from real game referee perspective recordings. Over a six-week period the experimental group studied training tapes consisting of 5 sets of 5 tackles, in each case with an expert providing his interpretation of the correct decision. The lowest ranked referees on the national panel significantly improved their percentage of correct decisions, becoming 17.43% more accurate in their decisions at the posttest. These results suggest that such shared mental model training is an appropriate method for improving referee performance.

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Teece, Angus R., Christos K. Argus, Nicholas Gill, Martyn Beaven, Ian C. Dunican, and Matthew W. Driller. "Sleep and Performance during a Preseason in Elite Rugby Union Athletes." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, no. 9 (April 27, 2021): 4612. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094612.

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Background: Preseason training optimises adaptations in the physical qualities required in rugby union athletes. Sleep can be compromised during periods of intensified training. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between sleep quantity and changes in physical performance over a preseason phase in professional rugby union athletes. Methods: Twenty-nine professional rugby union athletes (Mean ± SD, age: 23 ± 3 years) had their sleep duration monitored for 3 weeks using wrist actigraphy. Strength and speed were assessed at baseline and at week 3. Aerobic capacity and body composition were assessed at baseline, at week 3 and at week 5. Participants were stratified into 2 groups for analysis: <7 h 30 min sleep per night (LOW, n = 15) and >7 h 30 min sleep per night (HIGH, n = 14). Results: A significant group x time interaction was determined for aerobic capacity (p = 0.02, d = 1.25) at week 3 and for skinfolds at week 3 (p < 0.01, d = 0.58) and at week 5 (p = 0.02, d = 0.92), in favour of the HIGH sleep group. No differences were evident between groups for strength or speed measures (p ≥ 0.05). Conclusion: This study highlights that longer sleep duration during the preseason may assist in enhancing physical qualities including aerobic capacity and body composition in elite rugby union athletes.

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Headey, Julia, John H. M. Brooks, and Simon P. T. Kemp. "The Epidemiology of Shoulder Injuries in English Professional Rugby Union." American Journal of Sports Medicine 35, no. 9 (September 2007): 1537–43. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0363546507300691.

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Background Shoulder injuries constitute a considerable risk to professional rugby union players; however, there is a shortage of detailed epidemiologic information about injuries in this population. Purpose To describe the incidence, severity, and risk factors associated with shoulder injuries in professional rugby union. Study Design Descriptive epidemiology study. Method Medical personnel prospectively reported time-loss injuries in professional rugby union in England, and the shoulder injuries were evaluated. Results The incidence of shoulder injuries was significantly lower during training (0.10/1000 player—training hours) compared with matches (8.9/1000 player—match hours). The most common match injury was acromioclavicular joint injury (32%); the most severe was shoulder dislocation and instability (mean severity, 81 days absent), which also caused the greatest proportion of absence (42%) and had the highest rate of recurrence (62%). The majority of match shoulder injuries were sustained in the tackle (65%), and outside backs were the most likely to sustain an injury from tackling (2.4/1000 player-tackles). Injuries sustained during training were significantly more severe (61 days) than were those sustained during match play (27 days), and defensive training sessions carried the highest risk of injury (0.45/1000 player-hours; mean severity, 67 days). A mean of 241 player-days per club per season were lost to shoulder injuries. Conclusion Results suggest the potential to reduce this injury burden by modifying training activities and implementing “prehabilitation” strategies in an effort to minimize the risk of shoulder dislocation/instability.

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Viviers, Pierre L., Jeandré T. Viljoen, and Wayne Derman. "A Review of a Decade of Rugby Union Injury Epidemiology: 2007-2017." Sports Health: A Multidisciplinary Approach 10, no. 3 (February 14, 2018): 223–27. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1941738118757178.

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Context: Rugby union is the most widely played team collision sport globally. As with other contact sports, there is substantial risk of injury. To date, the majority of studies on injury epidemiology have focused on elite male cohorts, which inherently prevents extrapolation of research findings to other groups within the player continuum. This review aims to describe emerging injury trends across the spectrum of various rugby union subpopulations and to highlight gaps that may influence future injury prevention tactics. Evidence Acquisition: Relevant articles published from 2007 to 2017 were obtained by searching MEDLINE, PubMed, and SPORT Discus. Studies on 15-a-side rugby union, implemented according to the 2007 consensus statement on injury definitions and data collection procedures for injuries in rugby union, were used. Study Design: Clinical review. Level of Evidence: Level 3. Results: Match injuries occur more frequently than training injuries. Injury rates increase consistently according to age and level of play. Severity of injury often is greater among lower levels of the game, and sex-specific differences relating to injury patterns and incidence rates exist. Conclusion: To date, a paucity of injury surveillance data exists for women and players of both sexes at all levels of community rugby union. Furthermore, the incidence of injuries and illnesses are poorly reported in epidemiological studies. Despite methodological differences, injury trends remain consistent throughout all levels of play.

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Black, Katherine, Chloe Hindle, Claire Gibson, Joanne Slater, Dane Baker, Phil Healey, Rebecca McLay-Cooke, Rachel Brown, and Brett Smith. "Energy Availability Amongst Elite Rugby Union Players During Pre-Season Training." Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise 49, no. 5S (May 2017): 13. http://dx.doi.org/10.1249/01.mss.0000516845.76148.e0.

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Jones, Thomas W., Andrew Smith, Lindsay S. Macnaughton, and Duncan N. French. "Strength and Conditioning and Concurrent Training Practices in Elite Rugby Union." Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 30, no. 12 (December 2016): 3354–66. http://dx.doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000001445.

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Dunican, Ian C., Charles C. Higgin, Kevin Murray, Maddison J. Jones, Brian Dawson, John A. Caldwell, Shona L. Halson, and Peter R. Eastwood. "Sleep Patterns and Alertness in an Elite Super Rugby Team During a Game Week." Journal of Human Kinetics 67, no. 1 (July 5, 2019): 111–21. http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/hukin-2018-0088.

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AbstractSleep is a vital component of preparation, performance and recovery for a Super Rugby game. The purpose of this study was to quantify sleep behaviours and alertness of professional rugby union players during training and a game. Thirty-six rugby union players from a Super Rugby team wore a wrist-activity device (Readiband™) to measure sleep for 3 days before, 3 days after and on the night of an evening game. Players were separated into those selected to play the game (n = 23) and those who were not (n = 13). Alertness was assessed for all training and game times using bio-mathematical modelling. Alertness measures ≤90% were considered to reflect impaired reaction time. Those selected to play in the game progressively increased sleep duration over the nights prior to the game (by 92 min p ≤ 0.05) by delaying wake time. Players went to bed later after the game (02:20 ± 114 min vs 22:57 ± 60 min; p ≤ 0.001) which resulted in decreased sleep duration on game night compared to pre-game nights (296 ± 179 min vs 459 ± 78 min; p ≤ 0.05). Four players did not achieve any sleep on game night. Sleep duration appeared to be truncated by early morning training sessions (before 08:00) on the second and third mornings after the game. Alertness was >90% for all training and game times for all players. In conclusion, in the days leading into a Super Rugby game, players delay morning time at wake and consequently increase sleep duration with post-game sleep reduced in some.

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Black, Katherine E., Chloe Hindle, Rebecca McLay-Cooke, Rachel C. Brown, Claire Gibson, Dane F. Baker, and Brett Smith. "Dietary Intakes Differ by Body Composition Goals: An Observational Study of Professional Rugby Union Players in New Zealand." American Journal of Men's Health 13, no. 6 (November 27, 2019): 155798831989135. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1557988319891350.

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Preseason in rugby union is a period of intensive training where players undergo conditioning to prepare for the competitive season. In some cases, this includes modifying body composition through weight gain or fat loss. This study aimed to describe the macronutrient intakes of professional rugby union players during pre-season training. It was hypothesized that players required to gain weight would have a higher energy, carbohydrate and protein intake compared to those needing to lose weight. Twenty-three professional rugby players completed 3 days of dietary assessment and their sum of eight skinfolds were assessed. Players were divided into three groups by the team coaches and medical staff: weight gain, weight maintain and weight loss. Mean energy intakes were 3,875 ± 907 kcal·d−1 (15,965 ± 3,737 kJ·d−1) (weight gain 4,532 ± 804 kcal·d−1; weight maintain 3,825 ± 803 kcal·d−1; weight loss 3,066 ± 407 kcal·d−1) and carbohydrate intakes were 3.7 ± 1.2 g·kg−1·d−1 (weight gain 4.8 ± 0.9 g.kg−1·d−1; weight maintain 2.8 ± 0.7 g·kg−1·d−1; weight loss 2. 6 ± 0.7 g·kg−1·d−1). The energy and carbohydrate intakes are similar to published intakes among rugby union players. There were significant differences in energy intake and the percent of energy from protein between the weight gain and the weight loss group.

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Moore, David Anthony, Ben Jones, Jonathon Weakley, Sarah Whitehead, and Kevin Till. "The field and resistance training loads of academy rugby league players during a pre-season: Comparisons across playing positions." PLOS ONE 17, no. 8 (August 9, 2022): e0272817. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0272817.

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Male academy rugby league players are required to undertake field and resistance training to develop the technical, tactical and physical qualities important for success in the sport. However, limited research is available exploring the training load of academy rugby league players. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to quantify the field and resistance training loads of academy rugby league players during a pre-season period and compare training loads between playing positions (i.e., forwards vs. backs). Field and resistance training load data from 28 adolescent male (age 17 ± 1 years) rugby league players were retrospectively analysed following a 13-week pre-season training period (85 total training observations; 45 field sessions and 40 resistance training sessions). Global positioning system microtechnology, and estimated repetition volume was used to quantify external training load, and session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) was used to quantify internal training load. Positional differences (forwards n = 13 and backs n = 15) in training load were established using a linear mixed effect model. Mean weekly training frequency was 7 ± 2 with duration totaling 324 ± 137 minutes, and a mean sRPE of 1562 ± 678 arbitrary units (AU). Backs covered more high-speed distance than forwards in weeks two (p = 0.024), and 11 (p = 0.028). Compared to the forwards, backs completed more lower body resistance training volume in week one (p = 0.02), more upper body volume in week three (p< 0.001) and week 12 (p = 0.005). The findings provide novel data on the field and resistance-based training load undertaken by academy rugby league players across a pre-season period, highlighting relative uniformity between playing positions. Quantifying training load can support objective decision making for the prescription and manipulation of future training, ultimately aiming to maximise training within development pathways.

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Grainger, Adam, Paul Comfort, and Shane Heffernan. "No Effect of Partial-Body Cryotherapy on Restoration of Countermovement Jump or Well-Being Performance in Elite Rugby Union Players During the Competitive Phase of the Season." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 15, no. 1 (January 1, 2020): 98–104. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2018-0911.

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Purpose: Partial body cryotherapy (PBC) has been shown to be beneficial for postexercise recovery; however, no study has demonstrated the effectiveness of PBC for recovery following elite rugby union training. Rugby union is a unique sport that involves high-velocity collisions and may induce greater performance decrements than other sports; thus, PBC could be beneficial. The application of PBC in “real world” has rarely been investigated during the competitive phase of a playing season and warranted investigation. Methods: In a counterbalanced sequential research design, professional rugby athletes (n = 18; age 25.4 [4.0] y; training age 7.2 [4.0] y; mass 99.8 [10.6] kg; height 188.3 [6.0] cm) were assigned to a 12-week PBC intervention, washout period (4 wk), and reassessed as their own controls. Self-reported well-being, muscle soreness, sleep quality, and countermovement jump height were assessed before and 40 hours after “real-world” training. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Cohen d were used for statistical analysis. Results: No differences were observed between PBC and control conditions (P > .05; d = 0.00–0.14) for well-being (−0.02% [0.08%] vs 0.01% [0.06%]), muscle soreness (−0.01% [0.11%] vs 0.01% [0.16%]), sleep quality (−0.03% [0.14%] vs 0.10% [0.29%]), or countermovement jump height (36.48–36.59 vs 38.13–37.52 cm; P = .54). Conclusions: These results suggest PBC is ineffective for the restoration of selected performance parameters during the performance maintenance phase of the competitive season. To ascertain the appropriation of its use, future investigations should seek to assess the use of cryotherapies at various phases of the elite rugby union competitive season.

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Hill, Denise M., Nic Matthews, and Ruth Senior. "The Psychological Characteristics of Performance Under Pressure in Professional Rugby Union Referees." Sport Psychologist 30, no. 4 (December 2016): 376–87. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/tsp.2015-0109.

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This study used qualitative methods to explore the stressors, appraisal mechanism, emotional response, and effective/ineffective coping strategies experienced by elite rugby union referees during pressurized performances. Participants included seven male rugby union referees from the United Kingdom (Mage = 27.85, SD = 4.56) who had been officiating as full-time professionals for between 1 and 16 years (M = 4.85, SD = 5.42). Data revealed that the referees encountered a number of stressors, which were appraised initially as a ‘threat’, and elicited negatively-toned emotions. The referees were able to maintain performance standards under pressure by adopting proactive, problem- and emotion-focused coping strategies which managed effectively the stressors and their emotions. However, the use of avoidance-coping, reactive control, and informal impression management were perceived as ineffective coping strategies, and associated with poor performance and choking. Recommendations are offered to inform the psychological skills training of rugby union referees.

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Garcia, Cintia, Gustavo da Mota, Anthony Leicht, and Moacir Marocolo. "Ischemic Preconditioning and Acute Recovery of Performance in Rugby Union Players." Sports Medicine International Open 01, no. 03 (May 2017): E107—E112. http://dx.doi.org/10.1055/s-0043-111082.

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AbstractIschemic preconditioning has been used as a training and/or pre-competition strategy; however its use for post-exercise recovery is still unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of ischemic preconditioning on performance and recovery ratings following a simulated match in sub-elite rugby players. Following baseline measures, male players (n=8) performed a 40 min, rugby-specific exercise protocol followed by an intervention: 21 min of ischemic preconditioning (3×5 min occlusion at 220 mmHg with 2 min reperfusion at 0 mmHg) or passive rest (control) on 2 separate days. An agility T-test, a single vertical countermovement jump and 30 s of continuous vertical jumps were performed at baseline (–24 h), immediately after exercise, and immediately after the intervention. The rugby-specific exercise protocol induced similar mean heart rates (158.3±18.0 vs. 158.7±16.0 bpm) and perceived exertion levels (8.2±0.9 vs. 8.0±1.0) for both trials with all recovery performance measures and rating of recovery (13.9±1.4 vs. 13.6±1.6) similar between ischemic preconditioning and control trials (best p=0.385). We conclude that the use of ischemic preconditioning does not improve recovery acutely (~1 h) including specific variables related to rugby performance in amateur rugby union players.

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Onori, Maria Elisabetta, Massimo Pasqualetti, Giacomo Moretti, Giulia Canu, Giulio De Paolis, Silvia Baroni, Angelo Minucci, Christel Galvani, and Andrea Urbani. "Genetics and Sport Injuries: New Perspectives for Athletic Excellence in an Italian Court of Rugby Union Players." Genes 13, no. 6 (June 1, 2022): 995. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/genes13060995.

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Several genes are involved in sport performance, especially in injuries incidence. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of ACE, ACTN3, COL1A1, and MCT1 genotypes and injuries in rugby players in order to find a genotype/phenotype correlation and provide useful information improving athletic performance. One-hundred male professional and semiprofessional rugby players were selected. Analysis was performed genotyping the genes ACE, ACTN3, COL1A1, and MCT1 as candidate gene of interest involved in athletic performance. A control group of non-athletic Italian male participants was analyzed to compare the results. We found statistical significance of MCT1 rs1049434 AA for total injuries (χ2 = 0.115; p = 0.003) and bone injuries (χ2 = 0.603; p = 0.007) in the rugby athlete population. No statistical significance was found between injury incidence and ACE, ACTN3, COL1A1 genotypes. The MCT1 AA genotype is associated with the incidence of total and bone injuries in the rugby player population. Although environmental factors such as lifestyle, diet, training, and stress can influence athletic performance, our data demonstrated the importance of genetic study in sport aimed at developing personalized training and achieving the best possible athletic excellence.

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Leahy, Therese M., Ian C. Kenny, Mark J. Campbell, Giles D. Warrington, Roisin Cahalan, Andrew J. Harrison, Mark Lyons, et al. "Epidemiology of Shoulder Injuries in Schoolboy Rugby Union in Ireland." Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine 9, no. 8 (August 1, 2021): 232596712110234. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/23259671211023431.

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Background: The shoulder has been reported as a frequent location of injury in adult professional and amateur rugby, with match injury incidence rates ranging from 1.8 to 3 per 1000 player-hours (h). An increased understanding of the incidence and mechanism of shoulder injuries in school rugby players is vital to establish effective injury preventive strategies and advise on appropriate rehabilitation. Purpose: To describe the incidence, nature, and severity of shoulder injuries in schoolboy rugby in Ireland. Study Design: Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods: Injury surveillance was carried out for Senior Cup teams across two seasons (N = 665 players aged 17-19 years) in Ireland from 2018 to 2020. Match and training injury data were recorded using an online system by trained nominated injury recorders. Match exposure was also recorded. Results: Shoulder match injury incidence was 12.2 per 1000 h (95% CI, 9.1-16.2), with a mean severity of 47 days’ time loss and an overall burden of 573 days per 1000 h. In total, 47 match and 5 training shoulder injuries were recorded. The most common injuries were shoulder dislocations/subluxations (34%), followed by acromioclavicular joint sprains (30%). Shoulder dislocations/subluxations represented the most burdensome injury (280 days per 1000 h). The tackle accounted for the majority (81%) of shoulder injuries. Forwards sustained a significantly higher incidence of shoulder injuries (8.3/1000 h) in comparison with backs (3.9/1000 h), with a rate ratio of 2.13 (95% CI, 1.15-3.94; P = .015). Conclusion: We found a notably higher injury incidence rate in schoolboy rugby as compared with the adult amateur and professional game. Shoulder injuries were responsible for more days lost than any other injury, and shoulder dislocations were the most severe. This is of particular concern so early in a player’s career and warrants further investigation into potential risk factors and mechanisms associated with shoulder injuries in school-age players.

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Roberts, Charlie J., Nicholas D. Gill, Christopher M. Beaven, Logan R. Posthumus, and Stacy T. Sims. "The Influence of Full-Time Holistic Support Delivered by a Sports Nutritionist on Within-Day Macronutrient Distribution in New Zealand Provincial Academy Rugby Union Players." Nutrients 15, no. 1 (December 21, 2022): 17. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/nu15010017.

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Dietary intake is an important consideration for rugby union (‘rugby’) players to ensure substrate provision for optimal performance and facilitate recovery. Within-day meal distribution is especially important for athletes, particularly those with congested schedules and multiple daily training sessions. In the present study, 10 provincial academy rugby players engaged in a holistic support protocol informed by behaviour-change techniques led by a full-time sports nutritionist. Dietary intake was estimated during a 4-week monitoring and 4-week intervention period using the remote food photography method on one high-volume training day (two training sessions) and two low-volume training days (≤1 training session) per week. Lean body mass did not change significantly in response to the intervention. Significant increases were observed for protein on both low-volume (breakfast, AM snack, evening snack) and high-volume (post-gym, AM snack, evening snack) training days. Carbohydrate intake post-intervention was significantly greater at the pre-gym eating occasion but lower at PM snack and dinner eating occasions on high-volume days. These data suggest that incorporating a holistic support protocol led by a sports nutritionist can influence within-day nutrient intake in rugby players; however, no change to lean body mass was observed, and the influence of these changes in nutrient intake on performance and recovery warrants further investigation.

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Delaney, Jace A., Tannath J. Scott, Heidi R. Thornton, Kyle J. M. Bennett, David Gay, Grant M. Duthie, and Ben J. Dascombe. "Establishing Duration-Specific Running Intensities From Match-Play Analysis in Rugby League." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 10, no. 6 (September 2015): 725–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2015-0092.

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Rugby league coaches often prescribe training to replicate the demands of competition. The intensities of running drills are often monitored in comparison with absolute match-play measures. Such measures may not be sensitive enough to detect fluctuations in intensity across a match or to differentiate between positions.Purpose:To determine the position- and duration-specific running intensities of rugby league competition, using a moving-average method, for the prescription and monitoring of training.Methods:Data from a 15-Hz global positioning system (GPS) were collected from 32 professional rugby league players across a season. The velocity–time curve was analyzed using a rolling-average method, where maximum values were calculated for 10 different durations, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 min, for each player across each match.Results:There were large differences between the 1- and 2-min rolling averages and all other rolling-average durations. Smaller differences were observed for rolling averages of greater duration. Fullbacks maintained a greater velocity than outside backs and middle and edge forwards over the 1- and 2-min rolling averages (ES 0.8−1.2, P < .05). For rolling averages 3 min and greater, the running demands of the fullbacks were greater than those of the middle forwards and outside backs (ES 1.1−1.4, P < .05).Conclusions:These findings suggest that the running demands of rugby league fluctuate vastly across a match. Fullbacks were the only position to exhibit a greater running intensity than any other position, and therefore training prescription should reflect this.

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West, Stephen W., Sean Williams, Peter Tierney, Tom Batchelor, Matthew J. Cross, Simon P. T. Kemp, and Keith A. Stokes. "Training and match load in professional rugby union: Do contextual factors influence the training week?" South African Journal of Sports Medicine 33, no. 1 (May 25, 2021): 1–6. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2078-516x/2021/v33i1a9509.

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Background: Rugby union demands a multifaceted approach to training, given the multiple physical and technical attributes required to play the sport. Objectives: The aim of this study is to describe the distribution of training throughout the week and investigate how this may be influenced by match-related factors. Methods: Training load data (session Rating of Perceived Exertion [sRPE], total distance and high-speed running [HSR]) were collected from six professional English rugby teams during the 2017/18 season. Five contextual factors were also recorded including: standard of opposition, competition type, result of previous fixture, surface type, and match venue. Results: The day prior to matches demonstrated the lowest training load (101 AU (95% CIs: 0-216 AU) , 1 047 m (95% CIs:1 128-1 686 m) and 59 m (95% CIs: 0-343 m), respectively), while four days prior to the match demonstrated the highest training load (464 AU (95% CIs: 350-578), 2 983 m (95% CIs: 2 704-3 262m) and 234m (95% CIs: 0-477m), respectively). Of the five contextual factors, competition type was the only variable that demonstrated greater than trivial findings, with training before European fixtures the lowest stimulus across the four different competition types. Standard of opposition, previous result, surface type and venue had only trivial effects on training load (effect sizes = -0.13 to 0.15). Conclusion: Future studies should outline the distribution of other training metrics, including contact and collision training. This study provides a multi-club evaluation that demonstrates the variety of loading strategies prior to competitive match play and highlights competition type as the most influential contextual factor impacting the average training load.

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Buswell, Wendy. "That spatial shit!Performance training – an untapped resource in the training of rugby union players." Theatre, Dance and Performance Training 5, no. 3 (September 2, 2014): 242–54. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/19443927.2014.953702.

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Pasqualetti, Massimo, Maria Elisabetta Onori, Giulia Canu, Giacomo Moretti, Angelo Minucci, Silvia Baroni, Alvaro Mordente, Andrea Urbani, and Christel Galvani. "The Relationship between ACE, ACTN3 and MCT1 Genetic Polymorphisms and Athletic Performance in Elite Rugby Union Players: A Preliminary Study." Genes 13, no. 6 (May 28, 2022): 969. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/genes13060969.

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Athletic performance is influenced by many factors such as the environment, diet, training and endurance or speed in physical effort and by genetic predisposition. Just a few studies have analyzed the impact of genotypes on physical performance in rugby. The aim of this study was to verify the modulation of genetic influence on rugby-specific physical performance. Twenty-seven elite rugby union players were involved in the study during the in-season phase. Molecular genotyping was performed for: angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE rs4646994), alfa-actinin-3 (ACTN3 rs1815739) and monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1 rs1049434) and their variants. Lean mass index (from skinfolds), lower-limb explosive power (countermovement jump), agility (505), speed (20 m), maximal aerobic power (Yo-yo intermittent recovery test level 1) and repeated sprint ability (12 × 20 m) were evaluated. In our rugby union players ACE and ACTN3 variants did not show any influence on athletic performance. MCT1 analysis showed that TT-variant players had the highest peak vertical power (p = 0.037) while the ones with the AA genotype were the fastest in both agility and sprint tests (p = 0.006 and p = 0.012, respectively). Considering the T-dominant model, the AA genotype remains the fastest in both tests (agility: p = 0.013, speed: p = 0.017). Only the MCT1 rs1049434 A allele seems to be advantageous for elite rugby union players, particularly when power and speed are required.

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Corcoran, Glenn, and Stephen Bird. "Preseason Strength Training for Rugby Union: The General and Specific Preparatory Phases." Strength and Conditioning Journal 31, no. 6 (December 2009): 66–74. http://dx.doi.org/10.1519/ssc.0b013e3181c225d9.

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Brooks, J. H. M. "Epidemiology of injuries in English professional rugby union: part 2 training Injuries." British Journal of Sports Medicine 39, no. 10 (October 1, 2005): 767–75. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bjsm.2005.018408.

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Campbell, Patrick G., Jonathan M. Peake, and Geoffrey M. Minett. "The Specificity of Rugby Union Training Sessions in Preparation for Match Demands." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 13, no. 4 (April 2018): 496–503. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2017-0082.

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West, Daniel J., Dan J. Cunningham, Richard M. Bracken, Huw R. Bevan, Blair T. Crewther, Christian J. Cook, and Liam P. Kilduff. "Effects of Resisted Sprint Training on Acceleration in Professional Rugby Union Players." Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 27, no. 4 (April 2013): 1014–18. http://dx.doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0b013e3182606cff.

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Tee, Jason C., Michael I. Lambert, and Yoga Coopoo. "GPS comparison of training activities and game demands of professional rugby union." International Journal of Sports Science & Coaching 11, no. 2 (April 2016): 200–211. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1747954116637153.

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Beard, Adam, John Ashby, Mark Kilgallon, Franck Brocherie, and Grégoire P. Millet. "Upper-body repeated-sprint training in hypoxia in international rugby union players." European Journal of Sport Science 19, no. 9 (March 17, 2019): 1175–83. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/17461391.2019.1587521.

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Palmer-Green, Deborah S., Keith A. Stokes, Colin W. Fuller, Michael England, Simon P. T. Kemp, and Grant Trewartha. "Training Activities and Injuries in English Youth Academy and Schools Rugby Union." American Journal of Sports Medicine 43, no. 2 (December 15, 2014): 475–81. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0363546514560337.

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Cook, Christian J., Liam P. Kilduff, Blair T. Crewther, Martyn Beaven, and Daniel J. West. "Morning based strength training improves afternoon physical performance in rugby union players." Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport 17, no. 3 (May 2014): 317–21. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2013.04.016.

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Gaviglio, Christopher M., Blair T. Crewther, Liam P. Kilduff, Keith A. Stokes, and Christian J. Cook. "Relationship Between Pregame Concentrations of Free Testosterone and Outcome in Rugby Union." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 9, no. 2 (March 2014): 324–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2013-0106.

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Purpose:To assess the measures of salivary free testosterone and cortisol concentrations across selected rugby union matches according to game outcome.Methods:Twenty-two professional male rugby union players were studied across 6 games (3 wins and 3 losses). Hormone samples were taken 40 min before the game and 15 min after. The hormonal data were grouped and compared against competition outcomes. These competition outcomes included wins and losses and a game-ranked performance score (1–6).Results:Across the entire team, pregame testosterone concentrations were significantly higher during winning games than losses (P = 5.8 × 10−5). Analysis by playing position further revealed that, for the backs, pregame testosterone concentrations (P = 3.6 × 10−5) and the testosterone-to-cortisol ratio T:C (P = .038) were significantly greater before a win than a loss. Game-ranked performance score correlated to the team’s pregame testosterone concentrations (r = .81, P = .049). In backs, pregame testosterone (r = .91, P = .011) and T:C (r = .81, P = .05) also correlated to game-ranked performance. Analysis of the forwards’ hormone concentrations did not distinguish between game outcomes, nor did it correlate with game-ranked performance. Game venue (home vs away) only affected postgame concentrations of testosterone (P = .018) and cortisol (P = 2.58 × 10−4).Conclusions:Monitoring game-day concentrations of salivary free testosterone may help identify competitive readiness in rugby union matches. The link between pregame T:C and rugby players in the back position suggests that monitoring weekly training loads and enhancing recovery modalities between games may also assist with favorable performance and outcome in rugby union matches.

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Hooper, Jonathan J., Shaun D. James, Dylan C. Jones, Dean M. Lee, and Julianna M. Gál. "The influence of training with heavy rugby balls on selected spin pass variables in youth rugby union players." Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport 11, no. 2 (April 2008): 209–13. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2006.09.005.

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Cameron, Sonya L., Rebecca T. McLay-Cooke, Rachel C. Brown, Andrew R. Gray, and Kirsty A. Fairbairn. "Increased Blood pH but Not Performance With Sodium Bicarbonate Supplementation in Elite Rugby Union Players." International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism 20, no. 4 (August 2010): 307–21. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijsnem.20.4.307.

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Purpose:This study investigated the effect of ingesting 0.3 g/kg body weight (BW) of sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) on physiological responses, gastrointestinal (GI) tolerability, and sprint performance in elite rugby union players.Methods:Twenty-five male rugby players, age 21.6 (2.6) yr, participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial. Sixty-five minutes after consuming 0.3 g/kg BW of either NaHCO3 or placebo, participants completed a 25-min warm-up followed by 9 min of high-intensity rugby-specific training followed by a rugby-specific repeated-sprint test (RSRST). Whole-blood samples were collected to determine lactate and bicarbonate concentrations and pH at baseline, after supplement ingestion, and immediately after the RSRST. Acute GI discomfort was assessed by questionnaire throughout the trials, and chronic GI discomfort was assessed during the 24 hr postingestion.Results:After supplement ingestion and immediately after the RSRST, blood HCO3 − concentration and pH were higher for the NaHCO3 condition than for the placebo condition (p < .001). After the RSRST, blood lactate concentrations were significantly higher for the NaHCO3 than for the placebo condition (p < .001). There was no difference in performance on the RSRST between the 2 conditions. The incidence of belching, stomachache, diarrhea, stomach bloating, and nausea was higher after ingestion of NaHCO3 than with placebo (all p < .050). The severity of stomach cramps, belching, stomachache, bowel urgency, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach bloating, and flatulence was rated worse after ingestion of NaHCO3 than with placebo (p < .050).Conclusions:NaHCO3 supplementation increased blood HCO3 − concentration and attenuated the decline in blood pH compared with placebo during high-intensity exercise in well-trained rugby players but did not significantly improve exercise performance. The higher incidence and greater severity of GI symptoms after ingestion of NaHCO3 may negatively affect physical performance, and the authors strongly recommend testing this supplement during training before use in competitive situations.

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Gannon, Edward A., Keith A. Stokes, and Grant Trewartha. "Strength and Power Development in Professional Rugby Union Players Over a Training and Playing Season." International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance 11, no. 3 (April 2016): 381–87. http://dx.doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2015-0337.

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Purpose:To investigate strength and power development in elite rugby players during the different phases of a professional season.Methods:Sixteen professional rugby union athletes from an English premiership team were monitored for measures of lower-body peak force, force at 50 ms, force at 100 ms (all isometric squat), and power (explosive hack squat). Athletes were assessed at the start of preseason (T1), postpreseason (T2), midway through the competitive season (T3), and at the end of the competitive season (T4). Effect-size (ES) statistics with magnitude-based inferences were calculated to interpret differences in physical performance between the different stages of the season.Results:Very likely beneficial increases in force at 50 ms (+16%, ES = 0.75 ± 0.4) and 100 ms (+14%, ES = 0.63 ± 0.4) were observed between T1 and T2. A likely beneficial increase in power was observed between T2 and T3 (+4%, ES = 0.31 ± 0.2). Between T3 and T4, decreases in force at 50 ms (–6%, ES = –0.39 ± 0.3) and 100 ms (–9%, ES = –0.52 ± 0.4) occurred, while peak force and power were maintained. Over the full season (T1–T4) clear beneficial increases in all measures of strength and power were identified.Conclusions:Meaningful increases in strength and power can be achieved in professional English premiership rugby players over a full playing season. The greatest opportunity for strength and power development occurs during pre- to midseason phases, while these measures are maintained or decrease slightly during the latter stages of a season.

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Daly, Ed, Alexander D. Blackett, Alan J. Pearce, and Lisa Ryan. "Protect the Player, Protect the Game: Reflections from Ex-Professional Rugby Union Players on Law Changes, Protective Equipment, and Duty of Care in the Professional Game." Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology 7, no. 4 (October 20, 2022): 91. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/jfmk7040091.

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The emphasis of this study was to interview ex-professional male rugby union players (n = 23, mean age 35.5 ± 4.7 years) and discuss concussion management during their careers. In this study, two major themes were identified: (1) the duty of care to professional rugby union players by medical personnel, coaching staff, and owners of professional clubs and (2) the use of protective equipment and law changes to enhance player safety. In total, twenty-three ex-professional rugby union players were interviewed, and the majority (61%) had represented their countries at international test-level rugby. These interviews highlighted the belief that medical teams should be objective, independent entities within a professional rugby club. Furthermore, medical teams should not be in a position of being pressurised by head coaches, members of the coaching team, or club owners regarding return-to-play (RTP) protocols specific to concussion. The interviewees believed that they were pressured by coaches or members of the coaching team to play with concussion or concussive symptoms and other physical injuries. The results indicated that they had manipulated concussion testing themselves or with assistance to pass standard concussion testing protocols. The interviewees indicated that club owners have a duty of care to players even in retirement due to the high incidence of physical and mental injuries endured as a professional rugby player. Most participants indicated that a reduction in match playing time and reducing the amount of time engaged in contact training (workload volume) may assist in reducing concussion incidence. The participants suggested that changes to the current laws of the game or the use of protective equipment did not mitigate against concussion risk in the game of rugby union. The main limitation to the study is that participants had retired in the past ten years, and conditions for players may have changed. This study has highlighted that additional efforts are required by professional clubs to ensure the highest duty of care is delivered to current players and recently retired players.

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Burger, Nicholas, Mike Lambert, and Sharief Hendricks. "Lay of the land: narrative synthesis of tackle research in rugby union and rugby sevens." BMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine 6, no. 1 (April 2020): e000645. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjsem-2019-000645.

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ObjectivesThe purpose of this review was to synthesise both injury prevention and performance tackle-related research to provide rugby stakeholders with information on tackle injury epidemiology, including tackle injury risk factors and performance determinants, and to discuss potential preventative measures.DesignSystematic review and narrative synthesis.Data sourcesPubMed, Scopus and Web of Science.Eligibility criteriaLimited to peer-reviewed English-only publications between January 1995 and October 2018.ResultsA total of 317 studies were identified, with 177 in rugby union and 13 were in rugby sevens. The tackle accounted for more than 50% of all injuries in rugby union and rugby sevens, both at the professional level and at the lower levels, with the rate of tackle injuries higher at the professional level (mean 32/1000 player-hours) compared with the lower levels (mean 17/1000 player-hours). A player’s tackle actions and technical ability were identified as major risk factors for injury and a key determinant of performance.Summary/conclusionEvidence-based education, progressive tackle technique training with a high potential to transfer and law changes have been proposed as key modifiers of player tackle actions and technical ability. Conceivably, all three modifiers working in unison (as opposed to separately) will have a higher potential at reducing tackle injury risk while enhancing performance. With the guidance of tackle injury and performance studies, as well as stakeholder engagement, experiential and explorative tackle research has the potential to inspire innovative injury prevention and performance strategies.

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Journal articles on the topic 'Training prescription in rugby union'

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