Search Results (285)

Rugby Union is a high-impact sport with considerable injury risk, especially in emerging rugby settings where structured physical preparation may be limited. This study aimed to assess the epidemiological profile and injury incidence among Rugby Union players in Brazil, providing insights to inform strength and conditioning strategies. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted between October 2023 and February 2024 using a digital questionnaire that captured demographic data, sports participation history, and detailed information about injuries sustained in 2022 and 2023. A total of 236 players participated (58.9% male; mean age = 29.4 ± 7.5 years), with males averaging 29.6 ± 7.7 years and females 29.1 ± 7.5 years. Overall, 183 injuries were reported. Most injuries occurred during matches (73.3%) and were contact-related (82.1%), with the shoulder/clavicle and knee being the most affected regions. Ligament injuries (27.3%), dislocations (15.3%), and fractures (16.4%) were the most prevalent types. Female players had a distinct injury pattern, with a greater proportion of non-contact mechanisms. Significant associations were found between injury occurrence and sex (p = 0.012), playing modality (p < 0.001), injury type (p = 0.013), and recovery time (p = 0.006). These findings highlight the urgent need for tailored strength and conditioning interventions focused on injury prevention and athletic preparedness. Such programs should address sport-specific demands, promote neuromuscular resilience, and be accessible across competitive levels to improve performance and minimize injury-related setbacks. Full article

Coach development is typically considered to consist of a complex mix of experiences, including formal, informal and non-formal. Elements of the early research in this area led to the production of a model of long-term coach development (LTCD) over a decade ago, consisting of three core categories of experience: athletic, coaching and education, later published in a number of significant coaching documents. Whilst this model has clearly been of benefit in providing a framework to consider long-term coach development, it can also be considered to have its limitations in focusing on a somewhat narrow coaching context (typically Olympic sports in North America) and lacking currency. This study therefore attempted to consider and update this model to a professional team sport context away from North America by investigating the life stories of head coaches in English rugby league. Data collection consisted of a novel life story approach, whilst analysis utilised elements of constructivist grounded theory. Though supporting elements of the original LTCD model, results here provide an additional category of experience occurring prior to athletic experience, childhood, consisting of a number of sub-themes, alongside several other novel elements with implications for both research and practice. This work points towards a need to further understand coaches’ lifelong developmental journeys across a range of sports and contexts. Full article

Our previous study reported that male university rugby players tended to have a gut with a dysbiotic environment, characterized by abundant pathobiont bacteria and an accumulation of succinate, when compared with age-matched, non-rugby playing healthy males. In the present study, we conducted a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled experiment to evaluate the potential of blackcurrant extract and/or partially hydrolyzed guar gum (PHGG) to improve the gut environment of university rugby players. Participants were supplemented with blackcurrant extract and/or PHGG or a placebo for 4 weeks. Beneficial gut bacteria such as Megasphaera spp. tended to increase (p < 0.10) and Bifidobacterium spp. increased (p < 0.05) with the intake of blackcurrant extract and/or PHGG. A subgroup analysis further indicated that, unlike in those with a eubiotic gut environment, the dietary supplements also increased the number of beneficial gut bacteria such as Phascolarctobacterium spp. (p < 0.10) and Faecalibacterium spp. (p < 0.10) and fecal SCFA concentrations (p < 0.05) in participants with a possible dysbiotic gut environment. However, a synergistic effect between blackcurrant extract and PHGG was not clearly observed. Although further investigation is recommended, it was concluded that blackcurrant extract and PHGG can at least be used as functional materials to improve gut dysbiosis in university rugby players. Full article

Over the past decade, a growing body of evidence has highlighted the positive impact of full and equal participation in sport on the quality of life (QoL) of people with intellectual disabilities (IDs). However, access to mainstream sports remains limited due to persistent barriers, which leads to low participation levels among people with IDs. In this context, the Mixed Ability (MA) model offers an innovative approach by promoting the inclusion of people with and without disabilities in the same mainstream teams, without classification processes or modifications to the rules of the sport. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the relationship between rugby MA and the QoL and the needs of players with IDs. Using a convergent mixed methods design, the quantitative aspect involved 46 participants aged 18–57, engaged in eight different rugby teams, while the qualitative component included a focus group with four ID players from a rugby team. The findings revealed a positive correlation between higher QoL and the duration of participation in mainstream sports among the participants. Furthermore, a positive trend was also observed among individuals with moderate and severe intellectual disabilities. Qualitatively, participants highlighted the model’s emphasis on inclusivity, familial bonds, enjoyment, community spirit, active engagement, and opportunities to experience new activities. The shift towards inclusion requires modifying the community so that every person has opportunities to lead a valuable, meaningful, and self-determined life. In this sense, the MA sports model emerges as a potent instrument for fostering inclusive communities and enhancing the QoL of people with IDs. Full article

Tests assessing physical qualities are regularly used in youth rugby league teams for various functions. However, the utility of such tests is under-explored in this population. In this way, tests are commonly examined in terms of how well they can differentiate performances between groups that are expected to differ and how they relate to outcomes in actual competitive contexts. Therefore, the purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate the discriminative validity and relationships to match performance metrics of frequently used tests to assess physical qualities in male, adolescent rugby league players. Anthropometric (standing height and body mass) and fitness-related (20 m linear sprint, 505-Agility Test, L-run Test, medicine ball throw, countermovement jump, one-repetition maximum back squat, bench press, and prone row tests, and Multistage Fitness Test) physical qualities were measured using common tests in 42 players (16.1 ± 1.3 years). Test outcomes were compared between players in different age and positional groups for discriminative validity analyses. Relationships between test outcomes and match performance metrics gathered via global positioning system and video analysis were also determined. Compared to younger players (14–15 years), older players (16–18 years) had significantly better fitness-related physical qualities (p < 0.05, d = −1.78–1.66), but similar anthropometric qualities (p > 0.05, d = −0.45–0.20). Significant, moderate correlations (p < 0.05, r = 0.56–0.70) were found between (1) one-repetition maximum (1-RM) back squat and relative (per min) high-speed running distance and maximum velocity in matches; (2) 20-m sprint time and relative total distance; (3) 505-Agility Test time and relative line breaks; and (4) height and relative unsuccessful tackles. Consequently, commonly used fitness-related tests demonstrate discriminative validity in detecting differences between age groups, with standing height and the 1-RM back squat showing promising utility given their associations with key match metrics in adolescent rugby league players. Full article

The purpose of this study was to analyze the trend of sprint momentum over three consecutive seasons in elite rugby union players, to assess how body mass and sprinting speed affected changes in momentum, and to determine the impact of between-season changes in momentum on a selection of technical/tactical match performance indicators. The body mass, 10-m sprinting speed, and momentum of n = 37 elite rugby union players (age: 25.9 ± 2.8 y; height: 186.5 ± 7.3 cm; 22 forwards and 15 backs) were assessed over three consecutive seasons (2018–2021). Linear mixed-effects models were used to examine the impact of between-season changes in body mass and speed on momentum, and of body mass, speed, and momentum on technical indicators. Increased speed and body mass led to higher momentum (ES = 1.06–1.44). Speed changes improved effective carries, ineffective carries, carries, linebreaks, and offloads (ES = 0.48–1.17), while they reduced tackles (ES = −1.29). Changes in body mass reduced tackles (ES = −0.22) and improved effective carries (ES = 0.89) and carries (ES = 0.75). Changes in momentum reduced tackles (ES = −0.26) and ineffective contests (ES = −0.27), and improved offloads (ES = 0.61), effective carries (ES = 0.59), and carries (ES = 0.51). In conclusion, between-season improvements of momentum are achievable in elite rugby players, and, together with changes in speed and/or body mass, can have an impact on the technical/tactical performance during match play. Full article

While accurate athlete load monitoring is crucial for preventing injury and optimizing performance, the commonly used session rating of perceived exertion training load or competition load method faces limitations due to compliance issues related to missing subjective data self-reported by the athlete and the subsequent challenges in imputing the sessional rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) component, an average value for a training or competition session. This study investigated the imputation of missing RPE scores from the mechanical work and from a Speed–Deceleration–Contact (SDC) model. A total of 1002 datasets were collected from women’s rugby sevens competitions. Using either the mechanical work or SDC, linear regression and random forest imputation models were assessed at different missingness levels and their results compared to those of a common method of daily team mean substitution (DTMS) using an ANOVA of the accuracy by the model type and missingness. The statistical equivalence was evaluated for true and imputed sRPE scores by the model and strategy. Significant interactions between the model type and missingness were found, with all the imputed scores being deemed statistically equivalent. From the ANOVA, DTMS was found to be the poorest-performing model and the random forest model was the best. However, the best-performing model was not superior to previously reported imputation approaches, which confirms the difficulty in using subjective measures of the load when missing data is a prevalent issue in team sports. Practitioners are encouraged to critically evaluate any method of imputation for an athlete’s load. Full article

Background: Previous work has found that combining plyometric and resistance training in a single session can be effective in improving maximum strength (muscle contraction ability), vertical jumping, and sprint acceleration performance in young soccer players. However, the literature is scarce in relation to young rugby union players. Thus, the purposes of the present study were to examine the effects of a 6-week combined training (CT) programme that combined plyometric and resistance training in the same session on physical performance measures in adolescent male rugby union players and whether a 4-week period of plyometric training exclusion (Detraining) affects training adaptations. Methods: The participants (n = 15) completed a 6-week CT intervention and 4 weeks of plyometric detraining during the schoolboy rugby union in-season. A performance testing battery was conducted pre-intervention, post-intervention, and 4 weeks post-intervention. Results: A repeated measures ANOVA showed a significant effect for time on CMJ variables (mean power, mean force, and modified reactive strength index [RSI]), 3RM back squat strength, and 505 test time (p < 0.05). Pairwise comparisons revealed that CMJ variables (mean force, mean power, and peak power), 3RM back squat strength, and 505 test performance significantly increased from pre-intervention to post-intervention (p < 0.05). The 4-week plyometric detraining period significantly augmented CMJ variables (mean force, mean power, and modified RSI) and performance measures (standing broad jump [SBJ], 20 m sprint time, 505 test, and 3RM strength). Conclusions: The findings indicate that a 6-week CT programme can augment measures of lower-body power, maximal strength, and change of direction performance in adolescent male rugby union players, and a 4-week resistance training-only period (plyometric detraining) does not negatively affect performance adaptations. Full article

Background: Little is known about the perspectives of elite female rugby union players and practitioners towards rehabilitation and return to play (RTP) following shoulder injuries and how to manage these complex injuries. Methods: An interpretive hermeneutic phenomenology study was undertaken within a subtle realist paradigmatic view. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted with elite female rugby union players and practitioners working in elite female rugby union. Data were analysed using reflective thematic analysis. Results: Four themes emerged from the data: (1) growth of the women’s game, which involved several influences on the support and resources players received; (2) different viewpoints between players and practitioners concerning injury reporting and objective testing; (3) threats to identity, a player-only generated theme centred around the risk to their career following a significant injury and the isolation they faced; and (4) RTP, exploring strategies and influences to players’ and practitioners’ confidence in the RTP process following a shoulder injury. Conclusions: Practitioners should consider the non-physical factors during the rehabilitation process and the theory of care concept in supporting and collaborating with female rugby union players following a shoulder injury. Full article

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) rupture is one of the most common injuries in playing rugby. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a custom-designed training program on changes in dynamic knee valgus angle (DKV) and Reactive Strength Index (RSI), which are the main risk factors, in a group of female Rugby-7 players. Methods: A total of 16 professional Rugby-7 players completed an 8-week KAT program intervention, which was incorporated twice a week throughout this time. In both the pre- and post-tests, dynamic knee valgus was assessed during the drop jump (DJ) test using the frontal plane projection angle (FPPA) method. The jumps were analyzed using Dartfish 2024 software. Results: The post-tests revealed an increase in RSI values (p = 0.0496; SD = 1.25 ± 0.44 vs. 1.40 ± 0.35) and a reduction in valgus of the left knee joint (p = 0.01; SD = 9.08 ± 11.86 vs.0.00 ± 7.42). The correlation between RSI and the valgus angle produced inconclusive results (rs = −0.69; p < 0.01; rs = −0.35; p = 0.25; rs = −0.38; p = 0.2; rs = −0.2; p = 0.51). Cohen’s d = −0.37964. Conclusions: The training program proved effective in improving RSI scores and reducing the valgus angle of the left lower limb, which functioned as the supporting leg. These findings potential KAT implementation as a warm-up routine in professional women’s rugby clubs. Full article

Over the past decade, participation in female team sports has increased significantly, leading to greater interest in monitoring their training and competition load using wearable technology. Despite this, there is currently no systematic review or meta-analysis that has specifically focused on quantifying and comparing high-speed running (HSR) and sprinting thresholds in female team sports. This systematic review aimed (1) to summarize and describe the evidence on absolute speed thresholds used to classify HSR and sprinting in female team sports and (2) to compare HSR and sprinting thresholds between female team sports. A total of 82 studies were included, encompassing a range of female team sports such as Australian football, basketball, field hockey, soccer, Gaelic football, handball, lacrosse, and different codes of rugby (league, sevens, and union). This systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. This review found that to date, there is no consensus on defining high-speed and sprint running thresholds in female team sports, showing considerable variability in the thresholds used to define HSR (ranging from 11.1 to 21.6 km·h⁻¹) and sprinting (from 15.0 to 30.0 km·h⁻¹). Our results showed that the mean velocity for the HSR threshold was 16 km·h⁻¹, although the most frequently used velocity was 18.0 km·h⁻¹. In relation to the sprint threshold, the mean and the mode were similar: 21 km·h⁻¹ and 20.0 km·h⁻¹, respectively. The lack of standardized thresholds highlights the need for personalized approaches when monitoring training loads in female athletes. Despite apparent variability, these findings provide valuable insights for practitioners in designing evidence-based training programs aimed at optimizing high-speed exposure in female team sports. Further research is needed to establish sport-specific and standardized velocity thresholds for women’s team sports. Full article

The resisted method can provide an effective way to improve sprinting in both the acceleration and maximal velocity phases. However, substantial discrepancies exist in the literature regarding the influence of the athletes’ training status and the prescription of the load to be used in relation to the specific components of the desired sprint performance and its phases. The aim of this study was to carry out a systematic review of the research that analyzes the effects of the application of a sprint overload in rugby players, as well as to establish the results obtained in relation to the percentage of the load applied. For this purpose, the guidelines provided in the PRISMA Declaration were followed, and a search was conducted in five databases: PubMed, Web of Science, PsycInfo, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus. After screening, a total of 16 reports were included that met the proposed eligibility criteria. The results yielded information based on the effect of the application of an overload on the following aspects: (1) adaptation to training; (2) acute post-activation potentiation effect; and (3) acute effect and its influence on running kinematics and kinetics. It can be concluded that in order to work on weighted sprint training, the percentage of load to be used must be taken into account, as this percentage will determine to a large extent the effect that will be produced when it is applied. Full article

This study involved the simulation of five real-world head impact events in rugby, to assess the level of protection provided by a novel foam headguard, the N-Pro. The University College Dublin Brain Trauma Model (UCDBTM) was used to estimate the peak resultant head accelerations and brain tissue responses in different head impact scenarios. The input kinematics were obtained from two sources: video analysis of impact events, and real-time data obtained through instrumented mouthguards. The impact events were simulated under both unprotected and protected conditions. All simulations were performed against a rigid, non-compliant surface model. The results obtained in this study demonstrate the significant potential of the N-Pro in reducing peak head accelerations and brain tissue stress/strain responses by up to c. 70% compared to unprotected head impacts. This study highlights the headguard’s promising potential to reduce the severity of impact-related injuries by effectively attenuating stresses and strains, as well as linear and rotational kinematics. Additionally, the study supports the recommendation in the literature that kinematic data collected from wearable sensors should be supplemented by video analysis to improve accident reconstructions. Full article

Technological advancements have led to widespread use of wearable devices that capture external performance metrics in team sports. Tracking systems including global positioning system (GPS) technology with inbuilt microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), instrumented mouthguards (iMGs), and video analysis provide valuable insights into the contact demands of collision sports. In collision sports, successfully “winning the contact” is positively associated with better individual and team performance, but it also comes with a high risk of injury, posing a concern for player welfare. Understanding the frequency and intensity of these contact events is important in order for coaches and practitioners to adequately prepare players for competition and can simultaneously reduce the burden on athletes. Different methods have been developed for detecting contact events, although limitations of the current methods include validity and reliability issues, varying thresholds, algorithm inconsistencies, and a lack of code- and sex-specific algorithms. In this review, we evaluate common methods for capturing contact events in team collision sports and detail a new method for assessing contact intensity through notational analysis, offering a potential alternative for capturing contact events that are currently challenging to detect through microtechnology alone. Full article

Background/Objectives: High-intensity physical activity, especially in contact sports, may have harmful effect on athletes’ health. The aim of the study is to determine acute changes in the function of the left ventricle in rugby players after a competitive match. Methods: A prospective, clinical, observational case–control study was conducted. All cases were European Caucasian male athletes, older than 18 years, who had played for at least 60 min in the investigated match. A transthoracic echocardiography and blood tests were performed in all the participants two days before the match and within one hour after the match. Results: The total number of examinees was 34. Out of the 31 measured echocardiographic parameters, 22 showed a statistically significant change before and after the match. We also observed changes in echocardiographic parameters in relation to the increase in high-sensitivity troponin I. Two-dimensional left ventricle (LV) end-systolic (75 ± 10.5 vs. 67.1 ± 10 mL, p = 0.032) and LV end-diastolic (149.7 ± 24.6 vs. 133.8 ± 13.3 mL, p = 0.020) volumes, 3D LV end-systolic volume (75.8 ± 9.2 vs. 67.4 ± 9.5 mL, p = 0.014), indexed 2D LV end-diastolic volume (67.6 ± 9.3 vs. 61.4 ± 8 mL, p = 0.042), and indexed 3D LV end-systolic (34.3 ± 3.8 vs. 31 ± 4.8 mL, p = 0.033) volume after the match were significantly higher in players with troponin increase. Conclusions: High-intensity contact activity, such as rugby, leads to acute changes in echocardiographic parameters, especially in athlete’s who experience elevation in troponin. Full article