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Parker S, Duthie G, Robertson S. A framework for player movement analysis in team sports. Front Sports Act Living 2024; 6:1375513. [PMID: 39165645 PMCID: PMC11334162 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2024.1375513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Player movement is a fundamental component of evaluating performance in most team sports. Movement can be evaluated across multiple scales, referring to the function of anatomical structures through various planes of motion or an individual regulating their field position based on the movement of opposition players. Developments in commercially available tracking systems have afforded end users the ability to investigate the spatiotemporal features of movement in fine detail. These advancements, in conjunction with overlaid contextual information, have provided insights into the strategies adopted by players in relation to their movement. Understanding movement beyond its semantic value allows practitioners to make informed decisions surrounding performance evaluation and training design. This investigation proposes a framework to guide the analysis of player movement within team sports environments. The framework describes how operational standards for assessing movement can be designed in reference to theory and a set training philosophy. Such practice allows for the spatial and temporal complexities within team sports to be described and could potentially lead to better-applied outcomes through greater interdisciplinary collaboration and an improved holistic understanding of movement. To inform its development, this study evaluates the current research and identifies several open questions to guide future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stan Parker
- Institute for Health and Sport (IHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- High Performance Department, Western Bulldogs Football Club, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Grant Duthie
- Institute for Health and Sport (IHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Exercise Science, Australian Catholic University, Strathfield, NSW, Australia
- Sports Performance, Recovery, Injury and New Technologies (SPRINT) Research Centre, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sam Robertson
- Institute for Health and Sport (IHeS), Victoria University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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2
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Stevens LJ, Hopkins WG, Chittenden JA, Koper BZ, Smith TB. Quantifying Offense and Defense Workloads in Professional Rugby Union. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2024; 19:307-314. [PMID: 38171349 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Rugby union is a contact team sport demanding high levels of physical capacity, and understanding the match workloads can be useful to inform training. In this study, the factors influencing locomotion and contact workloads for offensive and defensive ball-in-play periods are quantified. METHODS Locomotion and contact metrics were collected from global positioning system units and videos for 31 professional players of a Super Rugby team across 14 games in the 2021 season. Data were analyzed with a generalized mixed-model procedure that included effects for type of play, playing position, match outcome, and ball-in-play time. Magnitudes were assessed with standardization, and evidence for substantial magnitudes was derived from sampling uncertainty. RESULTS When offense was compared to defense, most metrics showed decisively substantial increases (small to moderate) for forwards and backs. There was decisive evidence that locomotion metrics were substantially lower (large differences) and contact metrics were higher (very large differences) when comparing forwards to backs on offense and defense. When winning was compared to losing, there was good evidence that forwards experienced small increases in overall workload on defense, and backs experienced a small increase in high-speed running and a moderate decrease in contacts on offense. Match-to-match changes associated with ball-in-play time, attributed to fatigue, were decisive (moderate to very large) across most metrics for forwards and backs in offense and defense. CONCLUSIONS The increased locomotion and contact workloads in offensive periods and the differing physical requirements between positions and match outcomes for both types of play are novel findings that should aid practitioners in designing effective training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke J Stevens
- Te Huataki Waiora School of Health, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Will G Hopkins
- Internet Society for Sport Science, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jessica A Chittenden
- School of Sport and Recreation, Auckland University of Technology (AUT), Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Bianca Z Koper
- School of Physical Education, Sport, and Exercise Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Tiaki Brett Smith
- Te Huataki Waiora School of Health, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand
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3
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Owen C, Till K, Phibbs P, Read DJ, Weakley J, Atkinson M, Cross M, Kemp S, Sawczuk T, Stokes K, Williams S, Jones B. A multidimensional approach to identifying the physical qualities of male English regional academy rugby union players; considerations of position, chronological age, relative age and maturation. Eur J Sport Sci 2023; 23:178-188. [PMID: 35142263 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.2023658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Interpreting the physical qualities of youth athletes is complex due to the effects of growth, maturation and development. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of position, chronological age, relative age and maturation on the physical qualities of elite male academy rugby union players. 1,424 participants (n = 2,381 observations) from nine Rugby Football Union regional academies prospectively completed a physical testing battery at three time points, across three playing seasons. Anthropometrics, body composition, muscular power, muscular strength, speed, aerobic capacity and running momentum were assessed. Positional differences were identified for all physical qualities. The largest effect sizes were observed for the associations between chronological age (d = 0.65-0.73) and maturation (d = -0.77 to -0.69) and body mass related variables (i.e. body mass and running momentum). Relative strength, maximum velocity and aerobic capacity were the only models to include two fixed effects with all other models including at least three fixed effects (i.e. position and a combination of chronological age, relative age and maturation). These findings suggest a multidimensional approach considering position, chronological age, relative age and maturation is required to effectively assess the physical qualities of male age grade rugby union players. Therefore practitioners should use regression equations rather than traditional descriptive statistic tables to provide individualised normative comparisons thus enhancing the application of testing results for talent identification and player development.Highlights Practitioners should record and incorporate position, chronological age, relative age and maturation into the physical evaluation of elite academy rugby union players.The regression equations provided within this study offer highly generalisable comparative values that are specific to a players chronological and biological development.Through the use of enhanced player evaluation practitioners will be able to make more informed decisions surrounding talent identification and athlete development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cameron Owen
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League Ltd, Leeds, UK
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Padraic Phibbs
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,Leinster Rugby, Belfield, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Dale J Read
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,Department of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Musculoskeletal Science and Sports Medicine Research Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Jonathon Weakley
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Mark Atkinson
- Sparta Science, Menlo Park, CA, USA.,Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | | | - Simon Kemp
- Medical Services, Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, UK.,Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Thomas Sawczuk
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League Ltd, Leeds, UK.,School of Built Environment, Engineering and Computing, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,Queen Ethelburga's Collegiate, Thorpe Underwood, York, UK
| | - Keith Stokes
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK.,Medical Services, Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, UK
| | | | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League Ltd, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK.,Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, University of Cape Town, Faculty of Health Sciences, Cape Town, South Africa.,School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia
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4
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Peek RJ, Fleming JA, Carey DL, Middleton KJ, Gastin PB, Clarke AC. The temporal distribution and occurrence of impacts and movement relative to peak periods in men’s rugby union. J Sci Med Sport 2022; 25:776-782. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Ketone Monoester Ingestion Alters Metabolism and Simulated Rugby Performance in Professional Players. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2022; 32:334-341. [PMID: 35487576 DOI: 10.1123/ijsnem.2021-0346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Ketone ingestion can alter metabolism but effects on exercise performance are unclear, particularly with regard to the impact on intermittent-intensity exercise and team-sport performance. Nine professional male rugby union players each completed two trials in a double-blind, randomized, crossover design. Participants ingested either 90 ± 9 g carbohydrate (CHO; 9% solution) or an energy matched solution containing 20 ± 2 g CHO (3% solution) and 590 mg/kg body mass β-hydroxybutyrate monoester (CHO + BHB-ME) before and during a simulated rugby union-specific match-play protocol, including repeated high-intensity, sprint and power-based performance tests. Mean time to complete the sustained high-intensity performance tests was reduced by 0.33 ± 0.41 s (2.1%) with CHO + BHB-ME (15.53 ± 0.52 s) compared with CHO (15.86 ± 0.80 s) placebo (p = .04). Mean time to complete the sprint and power-based performance tests were not different between trials. CHO + BHB-ME resulted in blood BHB concentrations that remained >2 mmol/L during exercise (p < .001). Serum lactate and glycerol concentrations were lower after CHO + BHB-ME than CHO (p < .05). Coingestion of a BHB-ME with CHO can alter fuel metabolism (attenuate circulating lactate and glycerol concentrations) and may improve high-intensity running performance during a simulated rugby match-play protocol, without improving shorter duration sprint and power-based efforts.
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Torres-Ronda L, Beanland E, Whitehead S, Sweeting A, Clubb J. Tracking Systems in Team Sports: A Narrative Review of Applications of the Data and Sport Specific Analysis. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2022; 8:15. [PMID: 35076796 PMCID: PMC8789973 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-022-00408-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Seeking to obtain a competitive advantage and manage the risk of injury, team sport organisations are investing in tracking systems that can quantify training and competition characteristics. It is expected that such information can support objective decision-making for the prescription and manipulation of training load. This narrative review aims to summarise, and critically evaluate, different tracking systems and their use within team sports. The selection of systems should be dependent upon the context of the sport and needs careful consideration by practitioners. The selection of metrics requires a critical process to be able to describe, plan, monitor and evaluate training and competition characteristics of each sport. An emerging consideration for tracking systems data is the selection of suitable time analysis, such as temporal durations, peak demands or time series segmentation, whose best use depends on the temporal characteristics of the sport. Finally, examples of characteristics and the application of tracking data across seven popular team sports are presented. Practitioners working in specific team sports are advised to follow a critical thinking process, with a healthy dose of scepticism and awareness of appropriate theoretical frameworks, where possible, when creating new or selecting an existing metric to profile team sport athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Torres-Ronda
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia.
- Spanish Basketball Federation, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Sarah Whitehead
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Netball, Leeds, UK
| | - Alice Sweeting
- Institute for Health and Sport, Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jo Clubb
- School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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7
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Bridgeman LA, Gill ND. The Use of Global Positioning and Accelerometer Systems in Age-Grade and Senior Rugby Union: A Systematic Review. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2021; 7:15. [PMID: 33616786 PMCID: PMC7900280 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-021-00305-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Global positioning systems (GPS) imbedded with accelerometer systems (AS) are used in rugby union (RU) to collect information on absolute and relative distances, distances in different speed zones, high-speed running (HSR) distances, repeated high-intensity efforts (RHIE) and collisions and impacts. This information can be used to monitor match play which can then be used to plan training sessions. The objective of this review was to conduct a systematic review of studies which have reported the use of GPS and AS.
Methods
A systematic review of the use of GPS and AS in both age-grade and senior rugby was conducted. The authors systematically searched electronic databases from January 2010 until March 2020. Keywords included rugby union, GPS, global position* and microtechnology.
Results
A total of 51 studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in this review. There was a total of 34 studies utilising GPS and AS in senior RU players (mean ± SD; age 26.2 ± 1.9 years; height 185.7 ± 2.6 cm; mass 101.3 ± 4.2 kg) and 17 studies in age-grade RU players (mean ± SD; age 17.6 ± 1.5 years; height 182.1 ± 3.3 cm; mass 87.1 ± 8.6 kg). The results of this review highlighted that there are differences between backs and forwards and within these positions in these groups during both match play and training sessions. The backs covered greater total absolute, relative and HSR distance compared to forwards. Forwards are involved in more collisions and impacts than backs. When investigating the most intense periods of match play, studies in this review highlighted that the demands during these periods outweigh the average demands of the game. It was proposed that a rolling average over different time epochs is the best way to assess this and ensure that the most intense periods of play are assessed and monitored.
Conclusions
The information highlighted in this review can be used to help coaches assess performances in match play, allow them to plan appropriate training sessions and monitor training load.
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8
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Mernagh D, Weldon A, Wass J, Phillips J, Parmar N, Waldron M, Turner A. A Comparison of Match Demands Using Ball-in-Play versus Whole Match Data in Professional Soccer Players of the English Championship. Sports (Basel) 2021; 9:sports9060076. [PMID: 34073473 PMCID: PMC8228731 DOI: 10.3390/sports9060076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This is the first study to report the whole match, ball-in-play (BiP), ball-out-of-play (BoP), and Max BiP (worst case scenario phases of play) demands of professional soccer players competing in the English Championship. Effective playing time per soccer game is typically <60 min. When the ball is out of play, players spend time repositioning themselves, which is likely less physically demanding. Consequently, reporting whole match demands may under-report the physical requirements of soccer players. Twenty professional soccer players, categorized by position (defenders, midfielders, and forwards), participated in this study. A repeated measures design was used to collect Global Positioning System (GPS) data over eight professional soccer matches in the English Championship. Data were divided into whole match and BiP data, and BiP data were further sub-divided into different time points (30-60 s, 60-90 s, and >90 s), providing peak match demands. Whole match demands recorded were compared to BiP and Max BiP, with BiP data excluding all match stoppages, providing a more precise analysis of match demands. Whole match metrics were significantly lower than BiP metrics (p < 0.05), and Max BiP for 30-60 s was significantly higher than periods between 60-90 s and >90 s. No significant differences were found between positions. BiP analysis allows for a more accurate representation of the game and physical demands imposed on professional soccer players. Through having a clearer understanding of maximum game demands in professional soccer, practitioners can design more specific training methods to better prepare players for worst case scenario passages of play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dylan Mernagh
- Queens Park Rangers Football Club, London W12 7PJ, UK;
| | - Anthony Weldon
- Department of Sports and Recreation, Faculty of Management and Hospitality, The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Correspondence:
| | - Josh Wass
- Athlete Health Intelligence, English Institute of Sport, Manchester M11 3BS, UK;
| | | | - Nimai Parmar
- Faculty of Science and Technology, London Sports Institute, Middlesex University London, London NW4 4BT, UK; (N.P.); (A.T.)
| | - Mark Waldron
- Applied Sport Technology Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), College of Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK;
| | - Anthony Turner
- Faculty of Science and Technology, London Sports Institute, Middlesex University London, London NW4 4BT, UK; (N.P.); (A.T.)
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9
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Hengist A, Watkins JD, Smith HA, Edinburgh RM, Betts JA, Roe GAB, Gonzalez J. The effects of glucose-fructose co-ingestion on repeated performance during a day of intensified rugby union training in professional academy players. J Sports Sci 2020; 39:1144-1152. [PMID: 33320051 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1860473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed the effects of glucose-fructose co-ingestion during recovery from high-intensity rugby training on subsequent performance. Nine professional, senior academy Rugby Union players performed two trials in a double-blind, randomized, crossover design. Identical rugby training sessions were separated by a 3-hour recovery period, during which participants ingested protein (0.3 g×kg BM×h-1) and carbohydrate-containing (0.8 g×kg BM×h-1) recovery drinks, comprised of glucose polymers (GLUCOSE ONLY) or a glucose-fructose mixture (GLUCOSE+FRUCTOSE). Performance outcomes were determined from global positioning systems combined with accelerometry and heart rate monitoring. Mean speed during sessions 1 (am) and 2 (pm) of GLUCOSE ONLY was (mean±SD) 118±6 and 117±4 m×min-1, respectively. During GLUCOSE+FRUCTOSE, mean speed during session 1 and 2 was 117±4 and 116±5 m×min-1, respectively (time x trial interaction, p = 0.61). Blood lactate concentrations were higher throughout recovery in GLUCOSE+FRUCTOSE (mean ±SD: 1-h 3.2 ±2.0 mmol×L-1; 3-h 2.1 ±1.2 mmol×L-1) compared to GLUCOSE ONLY (1-h 2.0 ±1.0 mmol×L-1; 3-h 1.4 ±1.0 mmol×L-1; trial effect p = 0.05). Gastrointestinal discomfort low in both conditions. These data suggest glucose-fructose mixtures consumed as protein-carbohydrate recovery drinks following rugby training do not enhance subsequent performance compared to glucose-based recovery drinks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron Hengist
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Jonathan D Watkins
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Harry A Smith
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Robert M Edinburgh
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - James A Betts
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Gregory A B Roe
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK.,Bath Rugby Union Club, Bath, UK
| | - Javier Gonzalez
- Centre for Nutrition, Exercise and Metabolism, Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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10
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Heyward O, Nicholson B, Emmonds S, Roe G, Jones B. Physical Preparation in Female Rugby Codes: An Investigation of Current Practices. Front Sports Act Living 2020; 2:584194. [PMID: 33345152 PMCID: PMC7739696 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2020.584194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Female sports have recently seen a dramatic rise in participation and professionalism world-wide. Despite progress, the infrastructure and general sport science provisions in many female sports are behind their male counterparts. From a performance perspective, marked differences in physical and physiological characteristics can be seen between the sexes. Although physical preparation practices for male athletes are known, there are currently no published literature pertaining exclusively to female athletes. This information would provide invaluable data for both the researcher and practitioner alike. This survey therefore aimed to examine current practices utilized in female rugby codes (union, league, and sevens). A questionnaire assessing seasonal physical preparation practices, recovery, monitoring and sport science technology, and unique aspects in female rugby was developed. Thirty-seven physical preparation practitioners (32 males, 5 females) responded to the questionnaire. Most participants (78%) worked with national or regional/state level female athletes. Performance testing was more frequently assessed in the pre- (97%) and in-season (86%), than off-season (23%). Resistance, cardiovascular, sprint and plyometric training, and recovery sessions were all believed to be important to enhancing performance and implemented by most participants (≥ 89%). Sport science technologies were commonly (54%) utilized to inform current practice. Menstrual cycle phase was monitored by 22% of practitioners. The most frequently reported unique considerations in female rugby codes included psycho-social aspects (41%), the menstrual cycle (22%), and physical differences (22%). Practitioners working with female rugby can use the presented data to inform and develop current practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Heyward
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Institute for Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom.,Rugby Football Union, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Nicholson
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Institute for Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Stacey Emmonds
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Institute for Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom.,England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Gregory Roe
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Institute for Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom.,Bath Rugby, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Institute for Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom.,England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Leeds, United Kingdom.,Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, United Kingdom.,School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia.,Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Cape Town and the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
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11
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Griffin SA, Panagodage Perera NK, Murray A, Hartley C, Fawkner SG, P T Kemp S, Stokes KA, Kelly P. The relationships between rugby union, and health and well-being: a scoping review. Br J Sports Med 2020; 55:319-326. [PMID: 33115706 DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2020-102085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To scope the relationships between rugby union, and health and well-being. DESIGN Scoping review. DATA SOURCES Published and unpublished reports of any age, identified by searching electronic databases, platforms and reference lists. METHODS A three-step search strategy identified relevant published primary, secondary studies and grey literature, which were screened using a priori inclusion criteria. Data were extracted using a standardised tool, to form (1) a numerical analysis and (2) a thematic summary. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 6658 records were identified, and 198 studies met the inclusion criteria. All forms of rugby union can provide health-enhancing physical activity (PA). 'Non-contact' and wheelchair rugby in particular provide a wide range of physical and mental health and well-being benefits. The evidence is either mixed or unclear in relation to 'contact' rugby union and its effects on a range of physical health domains. Injury and concussion incidence rates are high for contact rugby union relative to other sports. CONCLUSIONS A wide range of stakeholders as well as existing and potential participants can use this information to make a more informed decision about participating in and promoting rugby union as a health-enhancing activity. Industry and policy-makers can use this review to inform policies and strategies that look to increase participation rates and use rugby union as a vehicle to contribute positively to population health. Further research understanding rugby union's contribution to PA as well as to muscle-strengthening and balance is indicated, as well as research examining more health and well-being outcomes across more diverse cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steffan A Griffin
- Centre for Sport and Exercise, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK .,Medical Services, Rugby Football Union, London, UK
| | - Nirmala Kanthi Panagodage Perera
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, Botnar Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, Oxfordshire, UK.,Sports Medicine, Australian Institute of Sport, Bruce, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Andrew Murray
- Centre for Sport and Exercise, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK.,Scottish Rugby Union, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | | | - Samantha G Fawkner
- The Institute for Sport, Physical Education and Health Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Simon P T Kemp
- Medical Services, Rugby Football Union, London, UK.,Faculty of Epidemiology and Public Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Keith A Stokes
- Medical Services, Rugby Football Union, London, UK.,Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, Somerset, UK
| | - Paul Kelly
- Physical Activity for Health Research Centre, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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12
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“How Am I Going, Coach?”—The Effect of Augmented Feedback During Small-Sided Games on Locomotor, Physiological, and Perceptual Responses. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2020; 15:677-684. [DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2019-0078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: To investigate whether providing global positioning system feedback to players between bouts of small-sided games (SSGs) can alter locomotor, physiological, and perceptual responses. Methods: Using a reverse counterbalanced design, 20 male university rugby players received either feedback or no feedback during “off-side” touch rugby SSGs. Eight 5v5, 6 × 4-minute SSGs were played over 4 d. Teams were assigned to a feedback or no-feedback condition (control) each day, with feedback provided during the 2-min between-bouts rest interval. Locomotor, heart rate, and differential rating of perceived exertion of breathlessness and leg-muscle exertion were measured and analyzed using a linear mixed model. Outcomes were reported using effect sizes (ES) and 90% confidence intervals (CI), and then interpreted via magnitude-based decisions. Results: Very likely trivial to unclear differences at all time points were observed in heart rate and differential rating of perceived exertion measures. Possibly to very likely trivial effects were observed between conditions, including total distance (ES = 0.15; 90 CI, −0.03 to 0.34), high-speed distance (ES = −0.07; 90 CI, −0.27 to 0.13), and maximal sprint speed (ES = 0.11; 90% CI, −0.11 to 0.34). All within-bout comparisons showed very likely to unclear differences, apart from possible increases in low-speed distance in bout 2 (ES = 0.23; 90% CI, 0.01 to 0.46) and maximal sprint speed in bout 4 (ES = 0.21; 90% CI, −0.04 to 0.45). Conclusions: In this study, verbal feedback did not alter locomotor, physiological, or perceptual responses in rugby players during SSGs. This may be due to contextual factors (eg, opposition) or the type (ie, distance) or low frequency of feedback provided.
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Till K, Weakley J, Read DB, Phibbs P, Darrall-Jones J, Roe G, Chantler S, Mellalieu S, Hislop M, Stokes K, Rock A, Jones B. Applied Sport Science for Male Age-Grade Rugby Union in England. SPORTS MEDICINE-OPEN 2020; 6:14. [PMID: 32086645 PMCID: PMC7035403 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-020-0236-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Rugby union (RU) is a skill-collision team sport played at junior and senior levels worldwide. Within England, age-grade rugby governs the participation and talent development of youth players. The RU player development pathway has recently been questioned, regarding player performance and well-being, which sport science research can address. The purpose of this review was to summarise and critically appraise the literature in relation to the applied sport science of male age-grade RU players in England focussing upon (1) match-play characteristics, (2) training exposures, (3) physical qualities, (4) fatigue and recovery, (5) nutrition, (6) psychological challenges and development, and (7) injury. Current research evidence suggests that age, playing level and position influence the match-play characteristics of age-grade RU. Training exposures of players are described as 'organised chaos' due to the multiple environments and stakeholders involved in coordinating training schedules. Fatigue is apparent up to 72 h post match-play. Well-developed physical qualities are important for player development and injury risk reduction. The nutritional requirements are high due to the energetic costs of collisions. Concerns around the psychological characteristics have also been identified (e.g. perfectionism). Injury risk is an important consideration with prevention strategies available. This review highlights the important multi-disciplinary aspects of sport science for developing age-grade RU players for continued participation and player development. The review describes where some current practices may not be optimal, provides a framework to assist practitioners to effectively prepare age-grade players for the holistic demands of youth RU and considers areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK. .,Leeds Rhinos RLFC, Leeds, UK. .,Yorkshire Carnegie RUFC, Leeds, UK.
| | - Jonathon Weakley
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Dale B Read
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Padraic Phibbs
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Leinster Rugby, Belfield, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Josh Darrall-Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Bath RUFC, Bath, UK
| | - Greg Roe
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Bath RUFC, Bath, UK
| | - Sarah Chantler
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Yorkshire Carnegie RUFC, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | - Keith Stokes
- University of Bath, Bath, UK.,Rugby Football Union, London, UK
| | | | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Leeds Rhinos RLFC, Leeds, UK.,Yorkshire Carnegie RUFC, Leeds, UK.,England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Red Hall, Leeds, UK.,School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia.,Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Cape Town and the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
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