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Glaise P, Rogowski I, Martin C. Effects of Repeated High-Intensity Effort Training or Repeated Sprint Training on Repeated High-Intensity Effort Ability and In-Game Performance in Professional Rugby Union Players. J Strength Cond Res 2024; 38:932-940. [PMID: 38489593 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Glaise, P, Rogowski, I, and Martin, C. Effects of repeated high-intensity effort training or repeated sprint training on repeated high-intensity effort ability and in-game performance in professional rugby union players. J Strength Cond Res 38(5): 932-940, 2024-This study investigated the effects of repeated high-intensity efforts (RHIE) training compared with repeated sprint exercise (RSE) training on RHIE ability (RHIEa) and in-game performance in professional rugby union players. Thirty-nine, male, professional, rugby union players were randomly assigned to 3 training groups (RHIE training, RSE training, and control). Repeated high-intensity effort ability and high-intensity effort characteristics (including sprints, acceleration, and contact efforts) during official games were measured before and after a 10-week specific (RHIE, RSE, or control) training period. The results of this study showed that concerning RHIEa, both the RHIE and RSE training significantly increased the players' average sprint velocity ( p < 0.001, d = -0.39 and p < 0.001, d = -0.53 respectively), average sled push velocity (ASPV; p < 0.001, d = -0.81 and p = 0.017, d = -0.48 respectively), and RHIE score ( p < 0.001, d = -0.72 and p < 0.001, d = -0.60 respectively). Repeated high-intensity effort training trended in a smaller increase in average sprint velocity than RSE training, a larger increase in ASPV, and a similar increase in RHIE score. Concerning in-game high-intensity efforts, both the RHIE and RSE training produced significant improvements in the number of sprints ( p = 0.047, d = -0.28 and p < 0.001, d = -0.47 respectively), total distance ( p < 0.001, d = -0.50 and p = 0.002, d = -0.38 respectively), the number of accelerations ( p < 0.001, d = -0.37 and p = 0.003, d = -0.32 respectively), and contact rate ( p < 0.001, d = -0.97 and p = 0.020, d = -0.28 respectively). Conversely, the magnitude of the increase in contact rate was almost twice as high in RHIE compared with RSE training. To conclude, the findings of this study were that both RSE and RHIE training are effective methods for developing RHIEa and in-game high-intensity efforts in professional rugby union. In practical applications, as the gains in certain abilities and game performance data differed depending on the training method chosen, we suggest that coaches choose the most appropriate method according to the profile of the players, their position, and the style of play they want to develop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Glaise
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology EA 7424, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, Lyon, France; and
- USBPA Rugby, Bourg en Bresse, France
| | - Isabelle Rogowski
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology EA 7424, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, Lyon, France; and
| | - Cyril Martin
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology EA 7424, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, Lyon, France; and
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Gamble ASD, Thompson KMA, Bigg JL, Pignanelli C, Spriet LL, Burr JF. Investigating the Relevance of Maximal Speed and Acceleration in Varsity-Level Female Ice Hockey Players. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38503279 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0417] [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: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To characterize and compare female ice hockey players' peak skating speed and acceleration ability during linear sprints and gameplay. We also sought to quantify the time spent at various speeds and the frequency of accelerations at different thresholds during games. METHODS Seventeen varsity-level female ice hockey players (20 [1.4] y, 68.9 [4.9] kg, 167.6 [4.7] cm) participated in an on-ice practice session (performing 3 × 40-m linear sprints) and 4 regular-season games while being monitored using a local positioning system. Speed and acceleration were recorded from the sprint and within-game monitoring. Time on ice spent in relative skating speed zones and the frequency of accelerations at different intensities were recorded. RESULTS Players' greatest peak speeds (29.5 [1.3] vs 28.3 [1.1] km/h) and accelerations (4.39 [0.48] vs 3.34 [0.36] m/s2) reached during gameplay were higher than those reached in linear sprinting (both P < .01). Peak in-game values were moderately predicted by linear sprint values for speed (r = .69, P < .01) but not for acceleration (r < .01, P = .95). Players spent little time at near-peak linear sprint speeds (≥80% [22.7 km/h], ∼3% time on ice; ≥90% [25.5 km/h], <1% of time on ice) during gameplay. However, 26% to 35% of accelerations recorded during the 4 games were ≥90% of linear sprint acceleration. CONCLUSIONS Although skating speed may be advantageous in specific game situations, our results suggest that players spend little time at near-maximal speeds while accelerating frequently during games. This warrants further investigation of direction changes, skating transitions, repeated sprints, and other determinant variables potentially related to on-ice success and the implementation of training strategies to improve repeated acceleration or qualities beyond maximal skating speed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander S D Gamble
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Department of Physical Education and Sport Sciences and the Sport and Human Performance Research Centre, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Kyle M A Thompson
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Jessica L Bigg
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- School of Medicine, University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Christopher Pignanelli
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Lawrence L Spriet
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Jamie F Burr
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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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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Zabaloy S, Freitas TT, Carlos-Vivas J, Giráldez JC, Loturco I, Pareja-Blanco F, Gálvez González J, Alcaraz PE. Estimation of maximum sprinting speed with timing gates: greater accuracy of 5-m split times compared to 10-m splits. Sports Biomech 2024; 23:262-272. [PMID: 33428549 DOI: 10.1080/14763141.2020.1838603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study assessed the validity of 5-m (TG5) and 10-m (TG10) split times measured with timing gates to estimate maximum sprint speed (MSS) against a criterion measure radar gun (RG) during the maximum velocity phase of a 30-m sprint. Nineteen amateur rugby players performed two 30-m sprints. The timing gates were placed at the starting line and at 5-, 10-, 20-, 25- and 30-m. In addition, a RG was used to measure instantaneous velocity. Both trials per participant were used selected as references. MSS obtained from TG10, TG5 and RG showed high intraclass correlation coefficients (0.971-0.978), low coefficients of variation (1.14-1.70%) and smallest detectable changes (<0.02 m/s). Pairwise comparison revealed differences (p = 0.002) in MSS when comparing TG10 to RG, but not TG5 and RG (p = 0.957). Almost perfect correlations were found between RG, TG5 and TG10 (r > 0.926, p < 0.001). In conclusion, MSS obtained from TG5, TG10 and RG presented good intra-session reliability. However, practitioners should be aware that substantial differences exist between TG10 and RG. For the assessment of MSS in team-sport athletes, it is recommended the use of TG5 for more accurate estimations when a gold standard criterion is not available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Zabaloy
- Faculty of Physical Activity and Sports, Universidad of Flores, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Pablo de Olavide University, Seville, Spain
| | - Tomás T Freitas
- UCAM Research Center for High Performance Sport, Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
- Nucleus of High Performance in Sport (NAR), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jorge Carlos-Vivas
- UCAM Research Center for High Performance Sport, Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
| | - Julián C Giráldez
- Faculty of Physical Activity and Sports, Universidad of Flores, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Irineu Loturco
- Nucleus of High Performance in Sport (NAR), São Paulo, Brazil
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
- University of South Wales, Pontypridd, UK
| | - Fernando Pareja-Blanco
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Pablo de Olavide University, Seville, Spain
- Physical Performance & Athletic Research Center, Pablo de Olavide University, Seville, Spain
| | | | - Pedro E Alcaraz
- UCAM Research Center for High Performance Sport, Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
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Glaise P, Rogowski I, Samozino P, Morin JB, Morel B, Martin C. Opposition Skill Efficiency During Professional Rugby Union Official Games Is Related to Horizontal Force-Production Capacities in Sprinting. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023; 18:918-926. [PMID: 36927999 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2022-0294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to determine relationships between parameters of force-production capacity in sprinting and opposition skill efficiency in rugby union games according to position. METHODS The sprint force-velocity profile of 33 professional rugby union players divided into 2 subgroups (forwards and backs) was measured on a 30-m sprint. Skill efficiencies (in percentage) of offensive duels, tackles, and rucks were assessed using objective criteria during 12 consecutive competitive games. Pearson correlation was used to determine the relationships between parameters of horizontal force-production capacity in sprinting (maximum propulsive power, theoretical maximum force [F0], theoretical maximum velocity, maximum ratio of horizontal force [RFmax], and rate of decrease of this ratio of forces with increasing velocity) and skill efficiencies. Two multiple linear regression models were used to observe whether skill efficiencies could depend on determinants of horizontal force application in low- or high-velocity conditions. A first model including F0 and theoretical maximum velocity was used as a macroscopic analysis, while a second model including RFmax and rate of decrease of this ratio of forces with increasing velocity was used as microscopic analysis to determine the most significant determinants of skill efficiency. RESULTS All skill efficiencies were strongly correlated with maximum propulsive power in forwards and backs. In forwards, F0 and RFmax were the key predictors of dueling, rucking, and tackling efficiency. In backs, F0 was the main predictor of dueling and rucking efficiency, whereas RFmax was the key predictor of dueling and tackling efficiency. F0 and theoretical maximum velocity equivalently contributed to tackling performance. CONCLUSIONS In rugby union forward and back players, skill efficiency is correlated with maximum propulsive power and may be more explained by horizontal force-production capacity and mechanical effectiveness at lower velocities than at higher velocities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Glaise
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology EA 7424, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, Lyon,France
- USBPA Rugby, Bourg en Bresse,France
| | - Isabelle Rogowski
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology EA 7424, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, Lyon,France
| | - Pierre Samozino
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology EA 7424, University Savoie Mont-Blanc, Chambery,France
| | - Jean-Benoit Morin
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology EA 7424, University Jean Monnet Saint-Etienne, University of Lyon, Saint-Etienne,France
| | - Baptiste Morel
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology EA 7424, University Savoie Mont-Blanc, Chambery,France
| | - Cyril Martin
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Biology EA 7424, University Claude Bernard Lyon 1, University of Lyon, Lyon,France
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Imbert S, Piscione J, Couderc A, Joncheray H, Daussin FN. Evolution of the physical characteristics of the French women's rugby players: A 10-year longitudinal analysis by position and team. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1120162. [PMID: 37090820 PMCID: PMC10113647 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1120162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe study aimed to interpret the evolution of the physical performance of rugby sevens and rugby union French international players from 2009 to 2020.Methods631 players from the French national teams were divided into three groups: forwards, backs and sevens. The performances evaluated were anthropometric characteristics, strength tests (1 RM bench press and 1 RM pull-up), aerobic capacity (YoYo IR1 test) and speed tests (10 m, 20 m and 50 m). The best performance of each player over a two-year period was kept for the analysis. Fluctuations were observed across the decade.ResultsThe anthropometric characteristics of female rugby sevens players tend to be taller and lighter than rugby union players. In rugby sevens, a moderate increase in maximal aerobic capacity was observed while sprint performances remained similar. Improvements in height and weight were observed over the last 10 years in rugby union players with a difference between the position. A moderate increase in sprinting performances and strength were observed both in backs and forwards.DiscussionThe overall improvement of strength and conditioning performances and anthropometrical evolution reflects the rugby environment characterized by the arrival of professional contracts and the structuration process of the clubs which allows a better quality of training and easier access to the infrastructures of the very high level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Imbert
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d’Opale, ULR 7369—URePSSS—Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, Lille, France
- Ligue des Hauts-de-France de Rugby, Villeneuve D’ascq, France
| | - Julien Piscione
- Department of Performance, Fédération Française de Rugby, Marcoussis, France
| | - Anthony Couderc
- Department of Performance, Fédération Française de Rugby, Marcoussis, France
| | - Hélène Joncheray
- Laboratoire Sport, Expertise, Performance, Unité de la Recherche, Institut National du Sport, de L’Expertise et de la Performance (INSEP), Paris, France
| | - Frédéric N. Daussin
- Univ. Lille, Univ. Artois, Univ. Littoral Côte d’Opale, ULR 7369—URePSSS—Unité de Recherche Pluridisciplinaire Sport Santé Société, Lille, France
- Correspondence: Frédéric N. Daussin
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Olsen P, Deuchrass R, Owen S, Lilley M, Jowsey J, Hamlin M. Running demands in club, regional, national, and international provincial New Zealand rugby union competitions. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 4:1062043. [PMID: 36713949 PMCID: PMC9880471 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2022.1062043] [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: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The demands of national and international professional rugby union matches are well established, however, there has not been a comparative study investigating running demands in New Zealand teams playing in club (amateur), Heartland Championship (semi-professional Div 2), the Mitre 10 Cup (semi-professional Div 1) or Super Rugby (professional) competitions. This information could enable specific training and rehabilitation that programmes to be developed to meet the needs of players in the different competitions. Players wore 10 Hz GPS units during games for one rugby season to determine absolute (m) and relative (m.min-1) measures for total distance, running volume (∼≥7 km·h-1) and high intensity running (∼≥16 km·h-1). There were typically minimal differences (1-2 m.min-1) in running distance measures between amateur level front row forwards and inside backs compared to players in these positions at higher levels of competition. Therefore, amateur players in these positions may find the transition to higher competitions less challenging with respect to running load. In contrast, amateur outside backs and back row forwards may find the increased pace of higher levels of competition more challenging due to typically covering significantly less running and high intensity running distances in amateur games. Differences for half backs were more variable between the levels of competition. Based on our results, it cannot be assumed that amateur rugby has lower running demands than higher competitions or that there is a continuum of increased running demands with increasing competition levels, as some playing positions in the semi-professional (Div 2) (second lowest level of competition) team recorded the largest values for total distance, running and high intensity running. Therefore, the specificity of running demands in a position and competition need to be considered individually for each player when transitioning between competitions. The practice and perception of returning a professional player to amateur club rugby due to the belief that running loads being lower may also be flawed, as we found considerable positional variation in running demands within-and-between competitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Olsen
- Department of Applied Sciences and Social Practice, Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand,Correspondence: Peter Olsen
| | - Richard Deuchrass
- Department of Tourism, Sport and Society, Lincoln University, Lincoln, New Zealand
| | - Shaun Owen
- Canterbury Rugby Union, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Matt Lilley
- Department of Applied Sciences and Social Practice, Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - James Jowsey
- Department of Applied Sciences and Social Practice, Ara Institute of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Michael Hamlin
- Department of Tourism, Sport and Society, Lincoln University, Lincoln, New Zealand
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Glaise P, Morel B, Rogowski I, Cornu B, Martin C. Influence of Repeated-Sprint Ability on the in-Game Activity Profiles of Semiprofessional Rugby Union Players According to Position. Front Sports Act Living 2022; 4:857373. [PMID: 35548461 PMCID: PMC9082549 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2022.857373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of repeated-sprint ability (RSA) on the activity of rugby union players in a competitive situation according to their position. Thirty-three semiprofessional rugby union players (age, 25.6 ± 4.3; height, 184.0 ± 8.0 cm; weight, 98.9 ± 13.9 kg, ~20 h training a week), divided into two position subgroups (forwards n = 20, backs n = 13) or four positional subgroups (front row and locks n = 13, back row n = 7, inside backs n = 6, outside backs n = 7), were tested. Their RSA was assessed with a 12 × 20 m sprint test over a 20 s cycle. GPS data (distance, acceleration, number of sprints, maximum velocity, and high-velocity running) and technical data were collected on 18 semiprofessional division rugby union games. In forwards, players with lower cumulated sprint time in the RSA test produced significantly more accelerations (ρ = −0.85, p < 0.001) and more combat actions per match minute (ρ = −0.69, p < 0.001). In backs, RSA was significantly correlated with high-intensity running [distance (ρ = −0.76), Vmax (ρ = −0.84), sprints frequency (ρ = −0.71), high-velocity running (ρ = −0.76), all p < 0.01]. Then, the players were divided into four subgroups (front row and locks, back row, inside backs and outside backs). RSA was significantly associated with the number of accelerations (ρ = −0.96, p <001) and combat actions in front row and locks (ρ = −0.71, p = 0.007). In the back row, RSA was correlated with distance (ρ = −0.96, p = 0.003) and the frequency of combat actions (ρ = −0.79, p = 0.04). In inside backs, RSA was significantly (all p < 0.01) correlated with distance (ρ = −0.81), number of accelerations (ρ = −0.94) and high-velocity running (ρ = −0.94), while in outside backs, RSA was associated with sprint frequency (ρ = −0.85) and the maximal in-game velocity reached (ρ = −0.89). These results demonstrate that RSA is associated with match running and combat activity performance (i) regardless of the position on the pitch and (ii) specifically for each player's position by improving the corresponding activity profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Glaise
- Inter-University Laboratory of Human Movement Biology (LIBM EA7424), University Claude Bernard Lyon, Lyon, France
- Union Sportive Bressane Pays de l'Ain (USBPA Rugby), Bourg-en-Bresse, France
| | - Baptiste Morel
- Inter-University Laboratory of Human Movement Biology (LIBM EA7424), University Savoie Mont-Blanc, Chambéry, France
| | - Isabelle Rogowski
- Inter-University Laboratory of Human Movement Biology (LIBM EA7424), University Claude Bernard Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Brice Cornu
- Union Sportive Bressane Pays de l'Ain (USBPA Rugby), Bourg-en-Bresse, France
| | - Cyril Martin
- Inter-University Laboratory of Human Movement Biology (LIBM EA7424), University Claude Bernard Lyon, Lyon, France
- *Correspondence: Cyril Martin
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Gamble ASD, Bigg JL, Nyman DLE, Spriet LL. Local Positioning System-Derived External Load of Female and Male Varsity Ice Hockey Players During Regular Season Games. Front Physiol 2022; 13:831723. [PMID: 35283770 PMCID: PMC8914021 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.831723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The purposes of this study were to quantify the external load for female and male varsity ice hockey players during regular season games using a local positioning system (LPS), compare LPS-derived external load between sexes and positions, and compare skating distances in absolute and relative speed zones. Methods Data were collected for 21 female (7 defense, 14 forwards; 20.0 ± 1.4 yrs., 69.1 ± 6.7 kg, 167.1 ± 5.4 cm) and 25 male (8 defense, 17 forwards; 21.9 ± 1.1 yrs., 85.9 ± 5.4 kg, 181.1 ± 5.2 cm) varsity ice hockey players. Measures included skating distance (total, and in absolute and relative speed zones), peak skating speed, peak acceleration and deceleration, accumulative acceleration load, and number of accelerations, decelerations, turns, skating transitions, direction changes, and impacts. Results Female and male players had a high external load during games, with average peak skating speeds >28 km/h and average skating distances >4.4 km. Most LPS-derived measures showed greater external load in males than females (p < 0.05). Forwards skated further at higher speeds compared to defense in both sexes (p < 0.001). Skating distances were significantly different when comparing absolute and relative speed zones (p < 0.001), with absolute speed zones potentially overestimating skating at very slow, very fast, and sprint speeds and underestimating skating at slow and moderate speeds. Conclusion This was the first study to measure external load in female ice hockey players with a LPS. Both female and male varsity players had high external loads during games, with forwards having greater external load at higher intensities and defense having greater external load at lower intensities. Sex and positional differences outline the importance of individualized athlete monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander S. D. Gamble
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- Human Performance and Health Research Laboratory, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Alexander S. D. Gamble,
| | - Jessica L. Bigg
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
| | - Danielle L. E. Nyman
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
- School of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Lawrence L. Spriet
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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Zabaloy S, Alcaraz PE, Pereira LA, Giráldez J, González JG, Loturco I, Freitas TT. Anthropometric traits and physical performance of amateur rugby players within specific playing positions. ISOKINET EXERC SCI 2021. [DOI: 10.3233/ies-210137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: This study examined the differences in physical and anthropometric traits between specific playing positions (i.e., forwards: front row, second row, back row; backs: half backs, centers, wings/fullbacks) in amateur rugby players and analyzed the magnitude of correlations among jump, sprint, and strength measures in forwards and backs. METHOD: Sixty-four male rugby players were assessed in anthropometrics, a variety of vertical jumps, 10- and 30-m sprint, and strength tests (i.e., squat and bench press). RESULTS: Front row forwards (FFR) demonstrated significantly higher body mass (BM) than second row (FSR) and back row (FBR) (107.4 ± 12.8, 99.1 ± 9.9 and 91.6 ± 7.6 kg respectively; p< 0.001). FFR showed greater absolute strength in bench press and squat, although no differences were found in relative strength. Regarding the differences in jump performance, FBR and FSR showed significantly (p< 0.05) and significant to non-significant (p= 0.042–0.078, ES = 0.90–1.55) higher jumps in all tasks compared to FFR. Moreover, FBR demonstrated lower sprint times and greater maximum sprinting speed (MSS) than FFR (p< 0.01). For the backs, centers (BCEN) were significantly heavier (p< 0.05) and exhibited a non-significantly moderate larger sprint momentum (p= 0.068, ES = 0.75) compared to half backs (BHB). MSS values were small to moderately greater in favor of wings/fullbacks [BWFB] (p= 0.188–0.059, ES = 0.50–0.71). Finally, statistically significant correlations were found between drop jump (flight time) and jump height across all jump tasks, sprint times and speed for both forwards (r= 0.541 to 0.996, p< 0.001) and backs (r= 0.422 to 0.995, p< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, FFR demonstrated significant, small to very large differences, when compared to their specific peers, whereas the backs were more similar. Additionally, our results indicated moderate to strong associations between explosive tasks such as sprinting and jumping in both playing positions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santiago Zabaloy
- Faculty of Physical Activity and Sports, University of Flores, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Faculty of Sports Sciences, Pablo de Olavide University, Seville, Spain
| | - Pedro E. Alcaraz
- UCAM Research Center for High Performance Sport, Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
| | - Lucas A. Pereira
- NAR – Nucleus of High Performance in Sport, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Julián Giráldez
- Faculty of Physical Activity and Sports, University of Flores, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Irineu Loturco
- NAR – Nucleus of High Performance in Sport, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- University of South Wales, Pontypridd, Wales, UK
| | - Tomás T. Freitas
- UCAM Research Center for High Performance Sport, Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
- NAR – Nucleus of High Performance in Sport, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Faculty of Sport Sciences, Catholic University of Murcia (UCAM), Murcia, Spain
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Short and long-term differences in anthropometric characteristics and physical performance between male rugby players that became professional or remained amateur. J Exerc Sci Fit 2021; 19:143-149. [PMID: 33680002 PMCID: PMC7895839 DOI: 10.1016/j.jesf.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study was to investigate which anthropometric and physical performance variables characterised players that advanced to professional teams (professionals) and how these variables changed over time, compared to those that did not secure professional contracts (i.e. remained amateurs). Methods Differences in anthropometry, strength, speed, power and intermittent running ability in 83 male rugby players collected between 2015 and 2019 were determined using repeated measures analysis. Results When arriving for the first year of the program, forwards that went on to become professional players were older (0.4 ± 0.3 yr, mean ± 95% CI, p = 0.004), heavier (4.6 ± 2.5 kg, p < 0.001) and stronger (range 6.2-16.4%) than forwards that remained amateur. Professional forwards were also slower at sprinting (range -2.7-2.9%, p < 0.001) and had lower Yo-Yo IRT L1 (-10.8%, p = 0.03). When first arrived on the program, professional backs were taller (3.5 ± 1.8 cm, p < 0.001), heavier (4.6 ± 2.4 kg, p < 0.001) and faster over 20 m (-1.9 ± 1.7%, p = 0.03) and 30 m (-1.7 ± 1.6%, p = 0.04) compared to amateurs. Compared to amateurs, professionals had a smaller increase in body mass (-4.2 ± 2.0%, p < 0.001) and greater improvement in sprinting (3.7, 2.8, 2.8% over 10, 20 and 30-m, respectively) and Yo-Yo IRT L1 (14.7 ± 11.0%, p = 0.05) over 3 years training. Conclusion Characteristics that are likely to assist players in becoming professionals include being older, heavier, taller and stronger.
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