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Carron MA, Scanlan AT, Power CJ, Doering TM. What Tests are Used to Assess the Physical Qualities of Male, Adolescent Rugby League Players? A Systematic Review of Testing Protocols and Reported Data Across Adolescent Age Groups. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2023; 9:106. [PMID: 37947891 PMCID: PMC10638136 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00650-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding the physical qualities of male, adolescent rugby league players across age groups is essential for practitioners to manage long-term player development. However, there are many testing options available to assess these qualities, and differences in tests and testing protocols can profoundly influence the data obtained. OBJECTIVES The aims of this systematic review were to: (1) identify the most frequently used tests to assess key physical qualities in male, adolescent rugby league players (12-19 years of age); (2) examine the testing protocols adopted in studies using these tests; and (3) synthesise the available data from studies using the most frequently used tests according to age group. METHODS A systematic search of five databases was conducted. For inclusion, studies were required to: (1) be original research that contained original data published in a peer-reviewed journal; (2) report data specifically for male, adolescent rugby league players; (3) report the age for the recruited participants to be between 12 and 19 years; (4) report data for any anthropometric quality and one other physical quality and identify the test(s) used to assess these qualities; and (5) be published in English with full-text availability. Weighted means and standard deviations were calculated for each physical quality for each age group arranged in 1-year intervals (i.e., 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18 years) across studies. RESULTS 37 studies were included in this systematic review. The most frequently used tests to assess anthropometric qualities were body mass, standing height, and sum of four skinfold sites. The most frequently used tests to assess other physical qualities were the 10-m sprint (linear speed), 505 Agility Test (change-of-direction speed), Multistage Fitness Test (aerobic capacity), bench press and back squat one-repetition maximum tests (muscular strength), and medicine ball throw (muscular power). Weighted means calculated across studies generally demonstrated improvements in player qualities across subsequent age groups, except for skinfold thickness and aerobic capacity. However, weighted means could not be calculated for the countermovement jump. CONCLUSION Our review identifies the most frequently used tests, but highlights variability in the testing protocols adopted. If these tests are used in future practice, we provide recommended protocols in accordance with industry standards for most tests. Finally, we provide age-specific references for frequently used tests that were implemented with consistent protocols. Clinical Trial Registration This study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021267795).
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael A Carron
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Building 81, Bruce Highway, Rockhampton, QLD, 4702, Australia.
| | - Aaron T Scanlan
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Building 81, Bruce Highway, Rockhampton, QLD, 4702, Australia
- Human Exercise and Training Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Australia
| | - Cody J Power
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Building 81, Bruce Highway, Rockhampton, QLD, 4702, Australia
- Human Exercise and Training Laboratory, School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Australia
| | - Thomas M Doering
- School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences, Central Queensland University, Building 81, Bruce Highway, Rockhampton, QLD, 4702, Australia
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Murphy A, Burgess K, Hall AJ, Aspe RR, Swinton PA. The Effects of Strength and Conditioning Interventions on Sprinting Performance in Team Sport Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Strength Cond Res 2023; 37:1692-1702. [PMID: 37494121 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Murphy, A, Burgess, K, Hall, AJ, Aspe, RR, and Swinton, PA. The effects of strength and conditioning interventions on sprinting performance in team sport athletes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res 37(8): 1692–1702, 2023—Linear sprinting is a key determinant of athletic performance within team sports. The aims of the review were to quantify and compare the effectiveness of popular strength and conditioning (S&C) training modes to improve sprint performance in team sport athletes, with additional focus on potential moderators and the relationships between improvements in physical factors (e.g., strength, power, and jump performance) and improvements in sprint performance. Inclusion was restricted to resistance, plyometric, sprint, and combined training interventions comprising team sport athletes. Multilevel, Bayesian’s meta-analysis and meta-regression models conducted with standardized mean difference effect sizes were used to investigate training modes and potential moderators. Weighted regression models conducted on shrunken estimates from initial Bayesian’s meta-analyses were used to quantify relationships between improvements in physical factors and sprint performance. Certainty of evidence was assessed using the grading of recommendations assessment development and evaluation (GRADE) approach. Similar improvements in sprint performance were obtained across training modes, with some evidence of the largest effects with resistance training (
= 0.55 [95% credible interval [CrI]: 0.36–0.78; very low certainty]). A strong moderating effect of training intensity was identified across all training modes with evidence of greater improvements in sprint performance with high-intensity training (
= 0.17 [95% CrI: 0.01–0.33; very low certainty]). Strong positive relationships were identified between improvements in all physical factors and sprint performance (
= 0.56 [95% CrI: 0.36–0.77; low certainty],
= 0.80 [95% CrI: 0.50–1.0; low certainty],
= 0.78 [95% CrI: 0.57–0.97; low certainty]). The findings indicate that focus on developing speed in team sport athletes should be placed on S&C training with high intensities, including the use of resisted sprint training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Murphy
- School of Health Sciences, Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
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Wirth K, Keiner M, Fuhrmann S, Nimmerichter A, Haff GG. Strength Training in Swimming. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19095369. [PMID: 35564764 PMCID: PMC9100337 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19095369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This narrative review deals with the topic of strength training in swimming, which has been a controversial issue for decades. It is not only about the importance for the performance at start, turn and swim speed, but also about the question of how to design a strength training program. Different approaches are discussed in the literature, with two aspects in the foreground. On the one hand is the discussion about the optimal intensity in strength training and, on the other hand, is the question of how specific strength training should be designed. In addition to a summary of the current state of research regarding the importance of strength training for swimming, the article shows which physiological adaptations should be achieved in order to be able to increase performance in the long term. Furthermore, an attempt is made to explain why some training contents seem to be rather unsuitable when it comes to increasing strength as a basis for higher performance in the start, turn and clean swimming. Practical training consequences are then derived from this. Regardless of the athlete's performance development, preventive aspects should also be considered in the discussion. The article provides a critical overview of the abovementioned key issues. The most important points when designing a strength training program for swimming are a sufficiently high-load intensity to increase maximum strength, which in turn is the basis for power, year-round strength training, parallel to swim training and working on the transfer of acquired strength skills in swim training, and not through supposedly specific strength training exercises on land or in the water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Wirth
- Faculty of Training and Sports Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, 2700 Wiener Neustadt, Austria;
- Correspondence:
| | - Michael Keiner
- Department of Sport Science, University of Health and Sports, 85737 Ismaning, Germany;
| | - Stefan Fuhrmann
- Olympic Training and Testing Centre Hamburg/Schleswig-Holstein, 22049 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Alfred Nimmerichter
- Faculty of Training and Sports Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, 2700 Wiener Neustadt, Austria;
| | - G. Gregory Haff
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia;
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Loturco I, Ashcroft P, Evans N, Tombs C, Pereira LA, Jeffreys I. Relationship Between Distinct Physical Capacities in Young Welsh Rugby Players. J Strength Cond Res 2022; 36:441-447. [PMID: 31860536 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000003459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Loturco, I, Ashcroft, P, Evans, N, Tombs, C, Pereira, LA, and Jeffreys, I. Relationship between distinct physical capacities in young Welsh rugby players. J Strength Cond Res 36(2): 441-447, 2022-We examined the correlations between aerobic fitness (assessed by the 30-15 intermittent fitness test [IFT]), maximum isometric strength, vertical jump, and speed performance of 37 under-16 (U16) Welsh regional rugby players. The physical assessments used in this research are part of a regional development program under the auspices of the players' development pathway created by the Welsh Rugby Union. The tests were performed in the following order: vertical jumps, isometric midthigh pull, 40-m sprint velocity, and 30-15 IFT. A Pearson's product moment correlation coefficient was used to estimate the magnitude of the relationships between the different physical variables. Overall, we found significant associations between jump height, sprint velocity, maximum isometric strength, and 30-15 IFT performance (r ranging from 0.44 to 0.70). Moreover, strong positive interrelationships were observed between strength, speed, and jump qualities (r ranging from 0.51 to 0.80). Although these findings remain to be established in prospective studies, it seems that U16 athletes are capable of simultaneously improving their aerobic fitness and neuromuscular performance. This can be confirmed by the close correlations between the 30-15 IFT and every neuromechanical parameter reported here. Therefore, practitioners are recommended to use multifaceted training schemes with their young rugby players, including different components of endurance, speed, strength, and power training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irineu Loturco
- NAR, Nucleus of High Performance in Sport, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,University of South Wales, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom; and.,Department of Human Movement Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Peter Ashcroft
- University of South Wales, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom; and
| | - Nathan Evans
- University of South Wales, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom; and
| | - Chris Tombs
- University of South Wales, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom; and
| | - 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, Brazil
| | - Ian Jeffreys
- University of South Wales, Pontypridd, Wales, United Kingdom; and
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McPhail J, Gonçalves BAM, Spörri J, Linnamo V. Unilateral Maximal Isometric Hex Bar Pull Test: Within-Session Reliability and Lower Body Force Production in Male and Female Freeski Athletes. Front Sports Act Living 2021; 3:715833. [PMID: 34435187 PMCID: PMC8380774 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2021.715833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to (1) assess the within-session reliability of a unilateral isometric hex bar pull (UIHBP) maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) test and, (2) determine unilateral isometric absolute peak force (PFabs) and relative peak force (PF) values in freeski athletes. Twenty-one male and eight female academy to national team freeskiers performed the novel UIHBP MVC task on a force plate and PFabs and relative PF were assessed (1000 Hz). Within-session measures of PFabs offered high reliability on left and right limbs for males (ICC = 0.91-0.94, CV = 2.6-2.2%) and females (ICC = 0.94-0.94, CV = 1.4-1.6%), while relative PF measures showed good to high reliability in both left and right limbs for males (ICC = 0.8-0.84, CV = 2.6-2.2%) and females (ICC = 0.92-0.90, CV = 1.4-1.7%). We observed significantly lower PFabs (p < 0.001) and relative PF (p < 0.001) in females compared to males. No statistical difference was found between left and right limbs in males and females in PFabs (p = 0.98) and relative PF measures (p = 0.93). The UIHBP MVC test appears to be a reliable method for assessing PFabs and relative PF in male and female freeski athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan McPhail
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | | | - Jörg Spörri
- Sports Medical Research Group, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- University Centre for Prevention and Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedics, Balgrist University Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vesa Linnamo
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä, Finland
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Sprint and Jump Mechanical Profiles in Academy Rugby League Players: Positional Differences and the Associations between Profiles and Sprint Performance. Sports (Basel) 2021; 9:sports9070093. [PMID: 34201958 PMCID: PMC8309902 DOI: 10.3390/sports9070093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Revised: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This cross-sectional study evaluated the sprint and jump mechanical profiles of male academy rugby league players, the differences between positions, and the associations between mechanical profiles and sprint performance. Twenty academy rugby league players performed 40-m sprints and squat jumps at increasing loads (0-80 kg) to determine individual mechanical (force-velocity-power) and performance variables. The mechanical variables (absolute and relative theoretical maximal force-velocity-power, force-velocity linear relationship, and mechanical efficiency) were determined from the mechanical profiles. Forwards had significantly (p < 0.05) greater vertical and horizontal force, momentum but jumped lower (unloaded) and were slower than backs. No athlete presented an optimal jump profile. No associations were found between jump and sprint mechanical variables. Absolute theoretical maximal vertical force significantly (p < 0.05) correlated (r = 0.71-0.77) with sprint momentum. Moderate (r = -0.47) to near-perfect (r = 1.00) significant associations (p < 0.05) were found between sprint mechanical and performance variables. The largest associations shifted from maximum relative horizontal force-power generation and application to maximum velocity capabilities and force application at high velocities as distance increased. The jump and sprint mechanical profiles appear to provide distinctive and highly variable information about academy rugby league players' sprint and jump capacities. Associations between mechanical variables and sprint performance suggest horizontal and vertical profiles differ and should be trained accordingly.
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Maximum Strength, Relative Strength, and Strength Deficit: Relationships With Performance and Differences Between Elite Sprinters and Professional Rugby Union Players. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2021; 16:1148–1153. [PMID: 33588376 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2020-0342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 08/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To test the relationships between maximum and relative strength (MS and RS), absolute and relative peak force (PF and RPF), and strength deficit (SDef), with sprint and jump performance, and to compare these mechanical variables between elite sprinters and professional rugby union players. METHODS Thirty-five male rugby union players and 30 male sprinters performed vertical jumps, 30-m sprint, and half-squat 1-repetition maximum (1RM), where these force-related parameters were collected. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to test the relationships between the variables. An independent t test and magnitude-based inferences compared the mechanical variables between sprinters and rugby players. RESULTS Almost certain significant differences were observed for jump and sprint performance between groups (P < .0001). The rugby union players demonstrated a likely significant higher MS (P = .03) but a very likely lower RS (P = .007) than the sprinters. No significant differences were observed for PF between them. The sprinters exhibited an almost certain significant higher RPF than the rugby players (P < .0001). Furthermore, the rugby players demonstrated almost certain to likely significant higher SDef from 40% to 70% 1RM (P < .05) compared with the sprinters. Overall, all strength-derived parameters were significantly related to functional performance. CONCLUSIONS Elite sprinters present higher levels of RS and RPF, lower levels of SDef, and better sprint and jump performance than professional rugby players. Relative strength-derived values (RS and RPF) and SDef are significantly associated with speed-power measures and may be used as effective and practical indicators of athletic performance.
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8
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Arsenis S, Gioftsidou A, Smilios I, Malliou P, Chatzinikolaou A. The effect of periodized flywheel training on power of lower limbs. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2020; 61:1563-1569. [PMID: 33305551 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.20.11940-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to compare the effects of semi-squat exercise with a flywheel device and free weights on parameters of physical performance. METHODS 48 well-trained male athletes were randomly divided into three subject groups (N.=16 each), two training groups (DT and RT) and one control group (CON). The duration of the intervention program was 8 weeks with frequency 2 times per week. Squat (SJ), countermovement (CMJ) and drop jump (DJ) tests were evaluated pre- and postprogram. Additionally, sprint performance in 10 (T10) and 30 meters (T30) was evaluated. The mechanical parameters of semi-squat exercise were analyzed pre- and postintervention program. Specifically, the optimum power load (OPL) and the average power output during semi-squat were evaluated. RESULTS Statistically significant differences showed on 1RM between RT and CON group (P<0.05). Statistically significant difference in SJ and CMJ were showed between DT and CON group. Also, DT decrease significant the time of 10m and 30m sprint in compare with CON group (P<0.05). These results demonstrate that flywheel training has similar effects with resistance training on power of lower limbs muscles. CONCLUSIONS Flywheel training can be used as alternative training in periodized programs that aim to enhance sports performance. Finally, these findings can be useful for strength and conditioning coaches to understand the function of flywheel device and the design of resistance training programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotirios Arsenis
- Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, Democritus University of Thrace, University Campus, Komotini, Greece -
| | - Asimenia Gioftsidou
- Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, Democritus University of Thrace, University Campus, Komotini, Greece
| | - Ilias Smilios
- Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, Democritus University of Thrace, University Campus, Komotini, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Malliou
- Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, Democritus University of Thrace, University Campus, Komotini, Greece
| | - Athanasios Chatzinikolaou
- Department of Physical Education and Sports Science, Democritus University of Thrace, University Campus, Komotini, Greece
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Comfort P, Jones PA, Thomas C, DosʼSantos T, McMahon JJ, Suchomel TJ. Changes in Early and Maximal Isometric Force Production in Response to Moderate- and High-Load Strength and Power Training. J Strength Cond Res 2020; 36:593-599. [PMID: 32187146 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000003544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Comfort, P, Jones, PA, Thomas, C, Dos'Santos, T, McMahon, JJ, and Suchomel, TJ. Changes in early and maximal isometric force production in response to moderate- and high-load strength and power training. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2020-The aims of this study were to determine the changes in early (50-, 100-, 150-, 200-, 250 ms) and maximal isometric force production, in response to a 4-week period of moderate-load resistance training (60-82.5% 1 repetition maximum [1RM]), followed by a 4-week period of high-load (80-90% 1RM) resistance training. Thirty-four subjects (age 19.5 ± 2.8 years; height 1.72 ± 0.08 m; body mass 69.9 ± 11.4 kg; maximal power clean 0.92 ± 0.03 kg·kg) participated in this study. Only trivial-to-moderate (0.2-2.7%, d = 0.00-0.88) and nonsignificant (p > 0.05) changes in early isometric force production were observed in response to the moderate-load training period, whereas very large (9.2-14.6%, d = 2.71-4.16), significant (p ≤ 0.001) increases in early isometric force production were observed in response to high-load training. In contrast, there was a very large, significant increase in peak force (PF) across the moderate-load phase (7.7 ± 11.8%, d = 2.02, p = 0.003), but only a moderate significant increase in PF (3.8 ± 10.6%, d = 1.16, p = 0.001) across the high-load phase. The results of this study indicate that high-load multijoint resistance training, that follows moderate-load training, results in superior increases in early multi-joint force production, compared with the changes observed after moderate-load resistance training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Comfort
- Directorate of Psychology and Sport, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom.,Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom.,Center for Exercise and Sport Science Research, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia
| | - Paul A Jones
- Directorate of Psychology and Sport, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Thomas
- Directorate of Psychology and Sport, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas DosʼSantos
- Directorate of Psychology and Sport, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - John J McMahon
- Directorate of Psychology and Sport, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom
| | - Timothy J Suchomel
- Directorate of Psychology and Sport, University of Salford, Salford, United Kingdom.,Department of Human Movement Sciences, Carroll University, Waukesha, Wisconsin
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Pichardo AW, Oliver JL, Harrison CB, Maulder PS, Lloyd RS, Kandoi R. The Influence of Maturity Offset, Strength, and Movement Competency on Motor Skill Performance in Adolescent Males. Sports (Basel) 2019; 7:sports7070168. [PMID: 31323944 PMCID: PMC6680597 DOI: 10.3390/sports7070168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to examine the extent to which maturity offset, strength, and movement competency influences motor skill performance in adolescent boys. One hundred and eight secondary school boys completed anthropometric and physical testing on two non-consecutive days for the following variables: Maturity offset, isometric mid-thigh pull absolute (IMTPABS) and relative (IMTPREL) peak force, resistance training skills quotient, 10-, 20-, and 30-m sprint time, countermovement jump height, horizontal jump distance, anaerobic endurance performance, and seated medicine ball throw (SMBT). The IMTPREL displayed significant small to large correlations with all performance variables (r = 0.27–0.61), whereas maturity offset was significantly correlated with IMTPABS (r = 0.69), sprint (r = 0.29–0.33), jump (r = 0.23–0.34), and SMBT (r = 0.32). Absolute and relative strength were the strongest predictors of all performance variables and combined with maturity to explain 21%–76% of the variance. Low and average relative strength boys were nearly eight times (odds ratio: 7.80, confidence interval: 1.48–41.12, p < 0.05) and nearly four times (odds ratio: 3.86, confidence interval: 0.95–15.59, p < 0.05) more likely to be classified as lower competency compared to high relative strength boys. Relative strength has more influence on motor skill performance than maturity when compared with movement competency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew W Pichardo
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), AUT Millennium, Auckland University of Technology, 17 Antares Place, Rosedale, Auckland 0632, New Zealand.
| | - Jon L Oliver
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), AUT Millennium, Auckland University of Technology, 17 Antares Place, Rosedale, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
- Youth Physical Development Centre, School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cyncoed Campus, Cyncoed Road, Cardiff CF23 6XD, UK
| | - Craig B Harrison
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), AUT Millennium, Auckland University of Technology, 17 Antares Place, Rosedale, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
| | - Peter S Maulder
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), AUT Millennium, Auckland University of Technology, 17 Antares Place, Rosedale, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
- Center for Sport Science and Human Performance, Waikato University of Technology, 51 Akoranga Road, Hamilton 3200, New Zealand
| | - Rhodri S Lloyd
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), AUT Millennium, Auckland University of Technology, 17 Antares Place, Rosedale, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
- Youth Physical Development Centre, School of Sport and Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cyncoed Campus, Cyncoed Road, Cardiff CF23 6XD, UK
- Center for Sport Science and Human Performance, Waikato University of Technology, 51 Akoranga Road, Hamilton 3200, New Zealand
| | - Rohan Kandoi
- Center for Sport Science and Human Performance, Waikato University of Technology, 51 Akoranga Road, Hamilton 3200, New Zealand
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Till K, Scantlebury S, Jones B. Anthropometric and Physical Qualities of Elite Male Youth Rugby League Players. Sports Med 2018; 47:2171-2186. [PMID: 28578541 PMCID: PMC5633637 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-017-0745-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rugby league is a collision team sport played at junior and senior levels worldwide, whereby players require highly developed anthropometric and physical qualities (i.e. speed, change-of-direction speed, aerobic capacity, muscular strength and power). Within junior levels, professional clubs and national governing bodies implement talent identification and development programmes to support the development of youth (i.e. 13-20 years) rugby league players into professional athletes. This review presents and critically appraises the anthropometric and physical qualities of elite male youth rugby league players aged between 13 and 20 years, by age category, playing standard and playing position. Height, body mass, body composition, linear speed, change-of-direction speed, aerobic capacity, muscular strength and power characteristics are presented and demonstrate that qualities develop with age and differentiate between playing standard and playing position. This highlights the importance of anthropometric and physical qualities for the identification and development of youth rugby league players. However, factors such as maturity status, variability in development, longitudinal monitoring and career attainment should be considered to help understand, identify and develop the physical qualities of youth players. Further extensive research is required into the anthropometric and physical qualities of youth rugby league players, specifically considering national standardised testing batteries, links between physical qualities and match performance, together with intervention studies, to inform the physical development of youth rugby league players for talent identification and development purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Headingley Campus, Room 108, Cavendish Hall, West Yorkshire, Leeds, LS6 3QS, UK. .,Leeds Rhinos RLFC, Leeds, UK.
| | - Sean Scantlebury
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Headingley Campus, Room 108, Cavendish Hall, West Yorkshire, Leeds, LS6 3QS, UK
| | - Ben Jones
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Headingley Campus, Room 108, Cavendish Hall, West Yorkshire, Leeds, LS6 3QS, UK.,Leeds Rhinos RLFC, Leeds, UK.,Rugby Football League, Red Hall, Leeds, UK
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12
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Harries SK, Lubans DR, Buxton A, MacDougall TH, Callister R. Effects of 12-Week Resistance Training on Sprint and Jump Performances in Competitive Adolescent Rugby Union Players. J Strength Cond Res 2018; 32:2762-2769. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000002119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Till K, Darrall-Jones J, Weakley JJ, Roe GA, Jones BL. The Influence of Training Age on the Annual Development of Physical Qualities Within Academy Rugby League Players. J Strength Cond Res 2018; 31:2110-2118. [PMID: 27442330 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000001546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Till, K, Darrall-Jones, J, Weakley, JJ, Roe, GA, and Jones, BL. The influence of training age on the annual development of physical qualities within academy rugby league players. J Strength Cond Res 31(8): 2110-2118, 2017-Previous research in academy rugby league players has evaluated the development of physical qualities according to chronological age. However, no study has considered the training age, defined as the number of formalized years of strength and conditioning training, of these players. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to present and compare the annual changes in physical qualities of academy rugby league players according to training age. Sixty-one academy players undertook a fitness testing assessment, including anthropometric (height, body mass, sum of 4 skinfolds) and physical (10 and 20 m sprint, 10m momentum, vertical jump, Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1 [Yo-Yo IRTL1], one-repetition maximum [1RM] squat, bench press and prone row) measures at the start of preseason on 2 consecutive annual occasions. Players were categorized into one of 3 training age groups (i.e., 0, 1, or 2 years) and were analyzed using magnitude-based inferences. Almost certain, very likely or likely annual improvements were identified for body mass, 10m momentum, Yo-Yo IRTL1, vertical jump, and all strength measures for the 3 training age groups. When training age groups were compared, 1 year showed possibly or likely lower strength increases than 0 years training age. However, the 2 years training age group demonstrated possibly or likely increased strength changes compared with 1 year. These findings suggest that training age is an important consideration for strength and conditioning practitioners but it is likely to be a combination of chronological age, biological maturity, and training experience alongside dynamic interplayer variability that influences the physical development of academy rugby league players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
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14
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Chiwaridzo M, Oorschot S, Dambi JM, Ferguson GD, Bonney E, Mudawarima T, Tadyanemhandu C, Smits-Engelsman BCM. A systematic review investigating measurement properties of physiological tests in rugby. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2017; 9:24. [PMID: 29299317 PMCID: PMC5745687 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-017-0081-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background This systematic review was conducted with the first objective aimed at providing an overview of the physiological characteristics commonly evaluated in rugby and the corresponding tests used to measure each construct. Secondly, the measurement properties of all identified tests per physiological construct were evaluated with the ultimate purpose of identifying tests with strongest level of evidence per construct. Methods The review was conducted in two stages. In all stages, electronic databases of EBSCOhost, Medline and Scopus were searched for full-text articles. Stage 1 included studies examining physiological characteristics in rugby. Stage 2 included studies evaluating measurement properties of all tests identified in Stage 1 either in rugby or related sports such as Australian Rules football and Soccer. Two independent reviewers screened relevant articles from titles and abstracts for both stages. Results Seventy studies met the inclusion criteria for Stage 1. The studies described 63 tests assessing speed (8), agility/change of direction speed (7), upper-body muscular endurance (8), upper-body muscular power (6), upper-body muscular strength (5), anaerobic endurance (4), maximal aerobic power (4), lower-body muscular power (3), prolonged high-intensity intermittent running ability/endurance (5), lower-body muscular strength (5), repeated high-intensity exercise performance (3), repeated-sprint ability (2), repeated-effort ability (1), maximal aerobic speed (1) and abdominal endurance (1). Stage 2 identified 20 studies describing measurement properties of 21 different tests. Only moderate evidence was found for the reliability of the 30–15 Intermittent Fitness. There was limited evidence found for the reliability and/or validity of 5 m, 10 m, 20 m speed tests, 505 test, modified 505 test, L run test, Sergeant Jump test and bench press repetitions-to-fatigue tests. There was no information from high-quality studies on the measurement properties of all the other tests identified in stage 1. Conclusion A number of physiological characteristics are evaluated in rugby. Each physiological construct has multiple tests for measurement. However, there is paucity of information on measurement properties from high-quality studies for the tests. This raises questions about the usefulness and applicability of these tests in rugby and creates a need for high-quality future studies evaluating measurement properties of these physiological tests. Trial registrations PROSPERO CRD 42015029747. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13102-017-0081-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Chiwaridzo
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Rehabilitation Department, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, P.O Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Sander Oorschot
- Department of Human Movement Sciences, Univeristy of Maastricht, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Jermaine M Dambi
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Rehabilitation Department, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, P.O Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Gillian D Ferguson
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Emmanuel Bonney
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Department of Physiotherapy, University of Ghana, College of Health Sciences, School of Biomedical and Allied Health Sciences, Accra, Ghana
| | - Tapfuma Mudawarima
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.,Harare Central Hospital, Rehabilitation Department, P.O Box ST 14, Southerton, Lobengula Road, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Cathrine Tadyanemhandu
- Rehabilitation Department, University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, P.O Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe.,Department of Physiotherapy, University of Witwatersrand, Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Therapeutic Sciences, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bouwien C M Smits-Engelsman
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Physiotherapy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Greene DA, Varley B, Duncan CS, Gabbett TJ. Assessment of body composition in junior representative and first grade rugby league players using dual x-ray absorptiometry. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2017.1331043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David A. Greene
- School of Exercise Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Strathfield, NSW, Australia
| | - Benjamin Varley
- School of Exercise Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Strathfield, NSW, Australia
| | - Craig S. Duncan
- School of Exercise Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Strathfield, NSW, Australia
| | - Tim J. Gabbett
- Gabbett Performance Solutions, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
- Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland, Ipswich, QLD, Australia
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16
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Jones B, Emmonds S, Hind K, Nicholson G, Rutherford Z, Till K. Physical Qualities of International Female Rugby League Players by Playing Position. J Strength Cond Res 2016; 30:1333-40. [PMID: 26439784 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000001225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the anthropometric, body composition, and fitness characteristics of female rugby league players by playing position. Data were collected on 27 players who were part of the English elite women's rugby league squad. Player assessments comprised anthropometric (stature and body mass), body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) and fitness {lower-body power (countermovement jump [CMJ], 20 kg jump squat [JS], and 30 cm drop jump), 5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 m sprint, 505 agility, Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 1} measures. Players were classified into playing position (i.e., forwards and backs) before analysis. A multivariate analysis of variance demonstrated significant (p ≤ 0.05) differences for body mass, stature, total fat, lean mass, and percentage body fat between forwards and backs. Positional differences were also observed for speed, agility, and lower-body power. Significant relationships were observed between total body fat and all fitness variables, and total lean mass was related to CMJ and JS peak power. This study provides comparative data for female rugby league forwards and backs. Body fat was strongly associated with performance and should therefore be considered in developing fitness characteristics. The relationship to match performance and trainability of these characteristics warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ben Jones
- Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
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17
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Chiwaridzo M, Ferguson GD, Smits-Engelsman BCM. A systematic review protocol investigating tests for physical or physiological qualities and game-specific skills commonly used in rugby and related sports and their psychometric properties. Syst Rev 2016; 5:122. [PMID: 27460647 PMCID: PMC4962394 DOI: 10.1186/s13643-016-0298-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 03/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Scientific focus on rugby has increased over the recent years, providing evidence of the physical or physiological characteristics and game-specific skills needed in the sport. Identification of tests commonly used to measure these characteristics is important for the development of test batteries, which in turn may be used for talent identification and injury prevention programmes. Although there are a number of tests available in the literature to measure physical or physiological variables and game-specific skills, there is limited information available on the psychometric properties of the tests. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to systematically review the literature for tests commonly used in rugby to measure physical or physiological characteristics and rugby-specific skills, documenting evidence of reliability and validity of the identified tests. METHODS/DESIGN A systematic review will be conducted. Electronic databases such as Scopus, MEDLINE via EBSCOhost and PubMed, Academic Search Premier, CINAHL and Africa-Wide Information via EBSCOhost will be searched for original research articles published in English from January 1, 1995, to December 31, 2015, using a pre-defined search strategy. The principal investigator will select potentially relevant articles from titles and abstracts. To minimise bias, full text of titles and abstracts deemed potentially relevant will be retrieved and reviewed by two independent reviewers based on the inclusion criteria. Data extraction will be conducted by the principal investigator and verified by two independent reviewers. The Consensus-based Standards for the Selection of Health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) checklist will be used to assess the methodological quality of the selected studies. DISCUSSION Choosing an appropriate test to be included in the screening test battery should be based on sound psychometric properties of the test available. This systematic review will provide an overview of the tests commonly used in rugby union and other related high intermittent team sports characterised by skill executions using the hands and legs such as Rugby League and Australian Rules Football. In addition, the review will highlight the psychometric properties of the identified tests. This information is crucial in developing a sport-specific test battery which can be used for talent identification, especially among young adolescent players, and injury prevention programmes. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42015029747.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Chiwaridzo
- University of Zimbabwe, College of Health Sciences, Rehabilitation Department, P.O. Box A178, Avondale, Harare, Zimbabwe. .,Division of Physiotherapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory Campus, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Gillian D Ferguson
- Division of Physiotherapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory Campus, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bouwien C M Smits-Engelsman
- Division of Physiotherapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory Campus, Cape Town, South Africa
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18
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Comfort P, McMahon JJ. Reliability of Maximal Back Squat and Power Clean Performances in Inexperienced Athletes. J Strength Cond Res 2016; 29:3089-96. [PMID: 25559912 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000000815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to determine between-session reliability of maximal weight lifted during the back squat and power clean, in inexperienced athletes, and to identify the smallest detectable difference between sessions. Forty-four collegiate athletes (men: n = 32; age: 21.5 ± 2.0 years; height: 180.0 ± 6.1 cm; body mass: 81.01 ± 7.42 kg; women: n = 12; age: 21.0 ± 1.9 years; height: 169.0 ± 5.2 cm; body mass: 62.90 ± 7.46 kg) participated in this study. One repetition maximum (1RM) back squat and power cleans were each performed twice on separate days, 3-5 days apart. Paired samples' t tests revealed no significant differences between trial 1 and trial 2 of the power clean (70.55 ± 24.24 kg, 71.22 ± 23.87 kg, p > 0.05, power = 0.99) and the back squat (130.32 ± 34.05 kg, 129.82 ± 34.07 kg, p > 0.05, power = 1.0). No differences in reliability or measurement error were observed between men and women. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) demonstrated a high reliability (ICC = 0.997, p < 0.001) for between-session 1RM power clean with an R of 0.987; similarly, high reliability was observed for between-session back squat performances (ICC = 0.994, p < 0.001), with an R of 0.978. The smallest detectable difference between sessions for both measures were ∼5%, highlighting that coaches and researchers should look for a change of >5% to identify a meaningful change in both maximal back squat and power clean performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Comfort
- Human Performance Laboratory, Directorate of Sport, Exercise and Physiotherapy, University of Salford, Greater Manchester, United Kingdom
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Styles WJ, Matthews MJ, Comfort P. Effects of Strength Training on Squat and Sprint Performance in Soccer Players. J Strength Cond Res 2016; 30:1534-9. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000001243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Till K, Jones B, Darrall-Jones J, Emmonds S, Cooke C. Longitudinal development of anthropometric and physical characteristics within academy rugby league players. J Strength Cond Res 2016; 29:1713-22. [PMID: 25474341 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000000792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the annual and long-term (i.e., 4 years) development of anthropometric and physical characteristics in academy (16-20 years) rugby league players. Players were assessed at the start of preseason over a 6-year period and were required to be assessed on consecutive years to be included in the study (Under 16-17, n = 35; Under 17-18, n = 44; Under 18-19, n = 35; Under 19-20, n = 16). A subset of 15 players were assessed for long-term changes over 4 years (Under 16-19). Anthropometric (height, body mass, sum of 4 skinfolds) and physical (10- and 20-m sprint, 10-m momentum, vertical jump, yo-yo intermittent recovery test level 1, 1 repetition maximum [1RM] squat, bench press, and prone row) assessments were collected. Paired t-tests and repeated measures analysis of variance demonstrated significant annual (e.g., body mass, U16 = 76.4 ± 8.4, U17 = 81.3 ± 8.3 kg; p < 0.001, d = 0.59) and long-term (e.g., vertical jump, Under 16 = 44.1 ± 3.8, Under 19 = 52.1 ± 5.3 cm; p < 0.001, d = 1.74) changes in anthropometric and physical characteristics. Greater percentage changes were identified between the Under 16-17 age categories compared with the other ages (e.g., 1RM squat, U16-17 = 22.5 ± 19.5 vs. U18-19 = 4.8 ± 6.4%). Findings demonstrate the annual and long-term development of anthropometric and physical characteristics in academy rugby league players establishing greater changes occur at younger ages upon the commencement of a structured training program within an academy. Coaches should understand the long-term development of physical characteristics and use longitudinal methods for monitoring and evaluating player performance and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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21
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Turner TS, Tobin DP, Delahunt E. Peak power in the hexagonal barbell jump squat and its relationship to jump performance and acceleration in elite rugby union players. J Strength Cond Res 2015; 29:1234-9. [PMID: 25436621 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000000770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Recent research suggests that jump squats with a loaded hexagonal barbell are superior for peak power production to comparable loads in a traditional barbell loaded jump squat. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between relative peak power output during performance of the hexagonal barbell jump squat (HBJS), countermovement jump (CMJ) height, and linear acceleration speed in rugby union players. Seventeen professional rugby union players performed 10- and 20-m sprints, followed by a set of 3 unloaded CMJs and a set of 3 HBJS at a previously determined optimal load corresponding with peak power output. The relationship between HBJS relative peak power output, 10- and 20-m sprint time, and CMJ height was investigated using correlation analysis. The contribution of HBJS relative peak power output and CMJ height to 10- and 20-m sprint time was investigated using standard multiple regression. Strong, significant, inverse correlations were observed between HBJS relative peak power output, 10-m sprint time (r = -0.70, p < 0.01), and 20-m sprint time (r = -0.75, p < 0.01). A strong, significant, positive correlation was observed between HBJS relative peak power output and CMJ height (r = 0.80, p < 0.01). Together, HBJS relative peak power output and CMJ height explained 46% of the variance in 10-m sprint time while explaining 59% of the variance in 20-m sprint time. The findings of the current study demonstrate a significant relationship between relative peak power in the HBJS and athletic performance as quantified by CMJ height and 10- and 20-m sprint time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas S Turner
- 1Leinster Rugby Branch, Irish Rugby Football Union, Dublin, Ireland; 2School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Population Science, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; and 3Institute for Sport and Health, University College Dublin, Ireland
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22
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Short-term Periodization Models: Effects on Strength and Speed-strength Performance. Sports Med 2015; 45:1373-86. [DOI: 10.1007/s40279-015-0355-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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23
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Turner TS, Tobin DP, Delahunt E. Optimal Loading Range for the Development of Peak Power Output in the Hexagonal Barbell Jump Squat. J Strength Cond Res 2015; 29:1627-32. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000000802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Opstoel K, Pion J, Elferink-Gemser M, Hartman E, Willemse B, Philippaerts R, Visscher C, Lenoir M. Anthropometric characteristics, physical fitness and motor coordination of 9 to 11 year old children participating in a wide range of sports. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0126282. [PMID: 25978313 PMCID: PMC4433213 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0126282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim of this study was to investigate to what extent 9 to 11 year old children participating in a specific sport already exhibit a specific anthropometric, physical fitness and motor coordination profile, in line with the requirements of that particular sport. In addition, the profiles in children with a different training volume were compared and possible differences in training hours per week between children from a low, moderate, and high level of physical fitness and motor coordination were investigated. Methods and Results Data of 620 children, 347 boys and 273 girls, who participated in the Flemish Sports Compass were used. Only the primary sport of each child was considered and six groups of sports (Ball sports, Dance, Gymnastics, Martial arts, Racquet sports and Swimming) were formed based on common characteristics. Measurements consisted of 17 tests. Independent T-tests and Mann-Whitney U-tests revealed few differences between the groups of sports and the discriminant analyses with the moderate and low active group did not show any significant results (p > .05). However, when discriminating among the high active children, a 85.2 % correct classification between six groups of sports was found (Wilks’ Λ = .137 and p < .001). Finally, children performing under average on the tests spent significantly fewer hours in sport per week (2.50 ± 1.84 hours) compared to the children performing best (3.25 ± 2.60 hours) (p = .016) and the children performing above average (2.90 ± 1.96 hours) (p = .029) on physical fitness and motor coordination. Discussion The study showed that in general, children at a young age do not exhibit sport-specific characteristics, except in children with a high training volume. It is possible that on the one hand, children have not spent enough time yet in their sport to develop sport-specific qualities. On the other hand, it could be possible that they do not take individual qualities into account when choosing a sport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrijn Opstoel
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Studies, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, University of Applied Sciences Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Johan Pion
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marije Elferink-Gemser
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Studies, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, University of Applied Sciences Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Esther Hartman
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Bas Willemse
- Institute of Sport and Exercise Studies, Faculty of Health and Social Studies, University of Applied Sciences Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Renaat Philippaerts
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Chris Visscher
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Matthieu Lenoir
- Department of Movement and Sports Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
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Abstract
Rugby league is a team sport in which players engage in repeated high-intensity exercise involving frequent collisions. Recent research, much of which has involved global positioning system (GPS) technology, has provided coaches and sport scientists with a deeper understanding of match demands, particularly at the elite level. This has allowed for the development of training programmes that prepare players for the most intense contact and running demands likely to be experienced in competition. At the elite level, rugby league players have well-developed aerobic and anaerobic endurance, muscular strength and power, reactive agility, and speed. Upper- and lower-body strength and aerobic power are associated with a broad range of technical and sport-specific skills, in addition to a lower risk of injury. Significant muscle damage (as estimated from creatine kinase concentrations) and fatigue occurs as a result of match-play; while muscle function and perceptual fatigue generally return to baseline 48 h following competition, increases in plasma concentrations of creatine kinase can last for up to 5 days post-match. Well-developed physical qualities may minimise post-match fatigue and facilitate recovery. Ultimately, the literature highlights that players require a broad range of physical and technical skills developed through specific training. This review evaluates the demands of the modern game, drawing on research that has used GPS technology. These findings highlight that preparing players based on the average demands of competition is likely to leave them underprepared for the most demanding passages of play. As such, coaches should incorporate drills that replicate the most intense repeated high-intensity demands of competition in order to prepare players for the worst-case scenarios expected during match-play.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rich D Johnston
- School of Exercise Science, Australian Catholic University, 1100 Nudgee Road, Brisbane, QLD, 4014, Australia,
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Till K, Tester E, Jones B, Emmonds S, Fahey J, Cooke C. Anthropometric and physical characteristics of english academy rugby league players. J Strength Cond Res 2014; 28:319-27. [PMID: 23942164 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0b013e3182a73c0e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the anthropometric and physical characteristics of English academy rugby league players by annual-age category (under 16s-under 20s) and between backs and forwards. Data were collected on 133 academy players over a 6-year period (resulting in a total of 257 assessments). Player assessments comprised of anthropometric (height, body mass, sum of 4 skinfolds) and physical (vertical jump, 10- and 20-m sprint, estimated V[Combining Dot Above]O2max via the yo-yo intermittent recovery test level 1, absolute 1 repetition maximum [1RM], and relative squat, bench press, and prone row) measures. Univariate analysis of variance demonstrated significant (p ≤ 0.05) increases in height, body mass, vertical jump, absolute, and relative strength measures across the 5 annual-age categories (e.g., body mass: under 16s = 75.2 ± 11.1, under 20s = 88.9 ± 8.5 kg; vertical jump: under 16s = 45.7 ± 5.2, under 20s = 52.8 ± 5.4 cm; 1RM bench press: under 16s = 73.9 ± 13.2, under 20s = 114.3 ± 15.3 kg). Independent t-tests identified significant (p ≤ 0.05) differences between backs and forwards for anthropometric (e.g., under 16s body mass: backs = 68.4 ± 8.6, forwards = 80.9 ± 9.7 kg) and physical (e.g., under 19s 20-m sprint: backs = 3.04 ± 0.08, forwards = 3.14 ± 0.12s; under 18s relative squat: backs = 1.65 ± 0.18, forwards = 1.51 ± 0.17 kg·kg) characteristics that were dependent on the age category and measure assessed. Findings highlight that anthropometric and physical characteristics develop across annual-age categories and between backs and forwards in academy rugby league players. These findings provide comparative data for such populations and support the need to monitor player development in junior rugby league players.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Metropolitan University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
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Till K, Jones B, Emmonds S, Tester E, Fahey J, Cooke C. Seasonal Changes in Anthropometric and Physical Characteristics Within English Academy Rugby League Players. J Strength Cond Res 2014; 28:2689-96. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000000457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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