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Grainger A, Comfort P, Twist C, Heffernan SM, Tarantino G. Real-World Fatigue Testing in Professional Rugby Union: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Sports Med 2024; 54:855-874. [PMID: 38114782 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-023-01973-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Professional rugby union is a high-intensity contact sport with position-specific high training and match volumes across a season that may lead to periods of fatigue if above a typically experienced threshold. This study assesses the influence of match play and/or training on fatigue levels in rugby union players. OBJECTIVE We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of measures used to assess fatigue status in male professional rugby union players. METHODS Using electronic databases (PubMed, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and MEDLINE), a systematic review of fatigue testing in rugby union was conducted on (1) neuromuscular, (2) subjective self-report, (3) biochemical, and (4) heart rate-derived measures. RESULTS Thirty-seven articles were included in this systematic review, of which 14 were further included in a meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis revealed small, yet not significant, decreases in countermovement jump height immediately after (effect size [ES] = - 0.29; 95% confidence interval [CI] - 0.64 to 0.06), 24 h (ES = - 0.43; 95% CI - 3.99 to 3.21), and 48 h (ES = - 0.22; 95% CI - 0.47 to 0.02) after exposure to rugby union match play or training. Reported wellness (ES = - 0.33; 95% CI - 1.70 to 1.04) and tiredness (ES = - 0.14; 95% CI - 1.30 to 1.03) declined over a period of a few weeks (however, the results were not-statistically significant), meanwhile muscle soreness increased (ES = 0.91; 95% CI 0.06 to 1.75) within the 96 h after the exposure to rugby union match play or training. Finally, while cortisol levels (ES = 1.87; 95% CI - 1.54 to 5.29) increased, testosterone declined (ES = - 1.54; 95% CI - 7.16 to 4.08) within the 24 h after the exposure. However, these results were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Subjective measures of muscle soreness can be used to assess fatigue after match play and training in rugby union players. Within-study and between-study variability for countermovement jump height, biochemical markers, and heart rate-derived measures means the utility (practical application) of these measures to assess fatigue in professional rugby union players after matches and training is unclear. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION PROSPERO ID: CRD42020216706.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Grainger
- Kitman Labs, Dublin, Ireland.
- Institute of Sport and Health, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Paul Comfort
- University of Salford, Salford, Greater Manchester, UK
- Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Craig Twist
- Research Institute of Sport and Exercise Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK
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2
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Pradhan S, Parganiha A, Agashe CD, Pati AK. Circadian rhythm in sportspersons and athletic performance: A mini review. Chronobiol Int 2024; 41:137-181. [PMID: 38247325 DOI: 10.1080/07420528.2024.2305663] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Circadian rhythms in the physiological and behavioral processes of humans play a crucial role in the quality of living and also in the magnitude of success and failure in various endeavors including competitive sports. The rhythmic activities of the body and performance in sportspersons do have a massive impact on their every cutthroat competition. It is essential to schedule sports activities and training of players according to their circadian typology and time of peak performance for improved performance and achievement. In this review, the focus is on circadian rhythms and diurnal variations in peak athletic performance in sportspersons. Accuracy and temporal variability in peak performance in an individual could be attributed to various factors, namely chronotype, time of the day, body temperature, jetlag, hormones, and prior light exposure. Circadian rhythm of mood, alertness, T-core, and ultimately athletic performance is not only affected by sleep but also by circadian variations in hormones, such as cortisol, testosterone, and melatonin. There are, however, a few reports that are not consistent with the conclusions drawn in this review. Nevertheless, circadian rhythm and performance among sportspersons and athletes are important areas of research. This review might be useful to the managers and policymakers associated with competitive sports and athletic events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sraddha Pradhan
- School of Studies in Life Science, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, India
| | - Arti Parganiha
- School of Studies in Life Science, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, India
- Center for Translational Chronobiology, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, India
| | - C D Agashe
- School of Studies in Physical Education, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, India
| | - Atanu Kumar Pati
- School of Studies in Life Science, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, India
- Center for Translational Chronobiology, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur, India
- School of Comparative Indic Studies and Tribal Sciences, Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences - Deemed to be a University, Bhubaneswar, India
- Odisha State Higher Education Council, Government of Odisha, Bhubaneswar, India
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3
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Hu X, Boisbluche S, Philippe K, Maurelli O, Li S, Xu B, Prioux J. Effects of Tactical Periodization on Workload, Physical Fitness, and Well-Being in Professional Rugby Union Players During a Preseason Period. J Strength Cond Res 2024; 38:105-115. [PMID: 37506365 PMCID: PMC10712997 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004607] [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] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Hu, X, Boisbluche, S, Philippe, K, Maurelli, O, Li, S, Xu, B, and Prioux, J. Effects of tactical periodization on workload, physical fitness, and well-being in professional rugby union players during a preseason period. J Strength Cond Res 38(1): 105-115, 2024-Tactical periodization (TP) emerged approximately 30 years ago and has recently gained considerable attention in rugby union (RU). It aims to develop specific physical fitness components with 3 acquisition days (strength, endurance, and speed). However, no study has investigated the effects of TP on workload, physical fitness, and well-being across an RU preseason. This study aimed to determine how RU players' workload response to TP focusing on positional differences, observe the influence of a TP preseason training program on aerobic fitness and neuromuscular performance between positions, and analyze the variation of well-being reported by forwards and backs from the 3 acquisition days. Thirty-two male players completed a 6-week TP protocol. External and internal workload variables were recorded through global positioning systems and session rating of perceived exertion (s-RPE) separately. Fitness assessments included Bronco and countermovement jump (CMJ) tests. The sum of well-being indices was measured using the Hooper index. Kruskal-Wallis H tests revealed that the highest values of PlayerLoad slow, PlayerLoad slow percentage, and s-RPE were found on endurance day and the lowest on speed day. Mann-Whitney U tests showed that 15 external workload parameters were higher in backs than forwards for each acquisition day. Small improvements were observed on the Bronco test. No differences were observed in CMJ performance during the preseason period and well-being values between acquisition days. This study provides unique insights into external and internal workload variables during each acquisition day. Furthermore, it highlights TP as an efficient theoretical concept to use in an RU context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaopan Hu
- Sino-French Joint Research Center of Sport Science, College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- Movement, Sport, and Health Sciences Laboratory, Rennes 2 University, Bruz, France
- Department of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, École Normale Supérieure de Rennes, Bruz, France
| | - Simon Boisbluche
- Department of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, École Normale Supérieure de Rennes, Bruz, France
| | - Kilian Philippe
- Department of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, École Normale Supérieure de Rennes, Bruz, France
- Movement, Balance, Performance, and Health Laboratory, University of Pau and Pays de l’Adour, Tarbes, France; and
| | - Olivier Maurelli
- Muscle Dynamics and Metabolism Laboratory, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Shichang Li
- Sino-French Joint Research Center of Sport Science, College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bo Xu
- Sino-French Joint Research Center of Sport Science, College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jacques Prioux
- Sino-French Joint Research Center of Sport Science, College of Physical Education and Health, East China Normal University, Shanghai, China
- Movement, Sport, and Health Sciences Laboratory, Rennes 2 University, Bruz, France
- Department of Sport Sciences and Physical Education, École Normale Supérieure de Rennes, Bruz, France
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4
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Kilduff LP, Pyne DB, Cook CJ. Performance Science Domains: Contemporary Strategies for Teams Preparing for the Rugby World Cup. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023; 18:1085-1088. [PMID: 37573027 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0179] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE As the start of the 10th Rugby Union World Cup approaches, performance staff will be working on the final elements of their teams' preparation. Much of this planning and preparation will be underpinned by the latest performance science research. In this invited commentary, we discuss contemporary performance science research in rugby union centered around 4 key performance domains. First, we outline a systematic approach to developing an overall understanding of the game demands and how performance staff can enhance the players' preparedness for competition. We then move on to outline our understanding of the training science domain, followed by a brief overview of effective recovery strategies at major tournaments. Finally, we outline research in the area of competition-day strategies and how they can positively impact players' readiness to compete. CONCLUSIONS Evaluating a team's preparation for the Rugby Union World Cup can be achieved by mapping their performance plan based on the 4 domains outlined above.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam P Kilduff
- Applied Sports Technology Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea,United Kingdom
- Welsh Institute of Performance Science (WIPS), Swansea University, Swansea,United Kingdom
| | - David B Pyne
- Research Institute for Sport and Exercise (UCRISE), University of Canberra, Canberra, ACT,Australia
| | - Christian J Cook
- Biomedical Discipline School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, ACT,Australia
- Hamlyn Center Imperial College, London,United Kingdom
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5
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Bestwick-Stevenson T, Toone R, Neupert E, Edwards K, Kluzek S. Assessment of Fatigue and Recovery in Sport: Narrative Review. Int J Sports Med 2022; 43:1151-1162. [PMID: 35468639 DOI: 10.1055/a-1834-7177] [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: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Fatigue is a phenomenon associated with decreases in both physical and cognitive performances and increases in injury occurrence. Competitive athletes are required to complete demanding training programs with high workloads to elicit the physiological and musculoskeletal adaptations plus skill acquisition necessary for performance. High workloads, especially sudden rapid increases in training loads, are associated with the occurrence of fatigue. At present, there is limited evidence elucidating the underlying mechanisms associating the fatigue generated by higher workloads and with an increase in injury risk. The multidimensional nature and manifestation of fatigue have led to differing definitions and dichotomies of the term. Consequently, a plethora of physiological, biochemical, psychological and performance markers have been proposed to measure fatigue and recovery. Those include self-reported scales, countermovement jump performance, heart rate variability, and saliva and serum biomarker analyses. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of fatigue and recovery plus methods of assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Bestwick-Stevenson
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Rebecca Toone
- Mountain Biking, English Institute of Sport, Manchester, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Emma Neupert
- School of Sport Health and Exercise Science, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Kimberley Edwards
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Stefan Kluzek
- School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
- Centre for Sport, Exercise and Osteoarthritis Research Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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6
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Selected Immunoendocrine Measures for Monitoring Responses to Training and Match Load in Professional Association Football: A Review of the Evidence. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2022; 17:1654-1663. [DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2022-0226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Biomarkers relating to player “stress balance,” immunological (ie, immunoglobulin-A), and hormonal (ie, testosterone and cortisol [T:C]) status are now commonly used in football. This article is our critical review of the scientific literature relating to the response of these measures to player load and their relationships with player health. The commonly reported relationship between immunoglobulin-A and training or match load highlights its sensitivity to changes in psychophysiological stress and the increased risk of compromised mucosal immunity. This is supported by its close relationship with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection and its association with perceived fatigue in football players. Testosterone and cortisol concentrations and the testosterone–cortisol ratio are sensitive to changes in player load, but the direction of their response is often inconsistent and is likely influenced by player training status and non-sport-related stressors. Some evidence indicates that sustained periods of high training volume can increase resting testosterone and that sustained periods of low and high training intensity can increase resting cortisol, compromising the testosterone–cortisol ratio. These findings are noteworthy, as recent findings indicate interrelationships between testosterone, cortisol, and testosterone:cortisol and perceived measures of fatigue, sleep quality, and muscle soreness in football players. Variability in individual responses suggests the need for a multivariate and individualized approach to player monitoring. Overall, we consider that there is sufficient evidence to support the use of salivary immunoglobulin-A, testosterone, cortisol, and testosterone:cortisol measures as part of a multivariate, individualized player monitoring system in professional football.
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7
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Troester JC, Duffield R. Postural Control Responses to Different Acute and Chronic Training Load Profiles in Professional Rugby Union. J Strength Cond Res 2022; 36:220-225. [PMID: 31725557 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000003385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Troester, JC and Duffield, R. Postural control responses to different acute and chronic training load profiles in professional rugby union. J Strength Cond Res 36(1): 220-225, 2022-The current investigation identified the response of postural control (PC) measures of single-leg balance and landing to different accumulated training load profiles representing normal, higher, and spiked loads. Twenty-two professional rugby union players performed single-leg balance and landing tests on a 1,000-Hz force plate on the first training day of 24 weeks across the season after 36 hours of recovery. Internal (session rating of perceived exertion training load) and external (total and high-speed running distance) load measures were monitored during all training sessions and matches. Calculations of acute (7-day rolling average), chronic (28-day rolling average), and acute-to-chronic workload ratio were determined. Three-week load profiles were identified that represented normal, spike, and higher load profiles to determine the effect on PC, which were analyzed using 2-way repeated-measures analysis of variance. A significant effect of load profile on landing impulse on the dominant (p = 0.005) and nondominant legs (p = 0.001) was identified, with significantly greater impulse measures in the spike and higher load profiles (p = 0.001-0.041) compared with the normal load profile. Significant load profile × week interactions (p < 0.05) were identified for landing peak force on the dominant leg and impulse on both legs suggesting a decrement during the spike load profile and increased impulse in the higher load profile. No effects (p > 0.05) were identified for load profile changes in single-leg balance sway velocity or single-leg landing time to stabilization. The respective landing responses may indicate altered movement strategies under spike and higher load profiles resulting from neuromuscular fatigue in response to the accumulated load.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan C Troester
- High Performance Department, NSW Waratahs Rugby, New South Wales, Australia; and.,Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Discipline Group, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rob Duffield
- Department of Health, Sport and Exercise Discipline Group, University of Technology Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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8
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Naughton M, McLean S, Scott TJ, Weaving D, Solomon C. Quantifying Fatigue in the Rugby Codes: The Interplay Between Collision Characteristics and Neuromuscular Performance, Biochemical Measures, and Self-Reported Assessments of Fatigue. Front Physiol 2021; 12:711634. [PMID: 34776996 PMCID: PMC8586499 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.711634] [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: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Locomotor and collision actions that rugby players complete during match-play often lead to substantial fatigue, and in turn, delays in recovery. The methods used to quantify post-match fatigue and recovery can be categorised as subjective and objective, with match-related collision characteristics thought to have a primary role in modulating these recovery measures. The aim of this review was to (1) evaluate how post-match recovery has been quantified in the rugby football codes (i.e., rugby league, rugby union, and rugby sevens), (2) to explore the time-course of commonly used measures of fatigue post-match, and (3) to investigate the relationships between game-related collisions and fatigue metrics. The available evidence suggests that upper-, and lower-body neuromuscular performance are negatively affected, and biomarkers of muscular damage and inflammation increase in the hours and days following match-play, with the largest differences being at 12–36 h post-match. The magnitude of such responses varies within and between neuromuscular performance (Δ ≤ 36%, n = 13 studies) and tissue biomarker (Δ ≤ 585%, n = 18 studies) measures, but nevertheless appears strongly related to collision frequency and intensity. Likewise, the increase in perceived soreness in the hours and days post-match strongly correlate to collision characteristics across the rugby football codes. Within these findings, there are specific differences in positional groups and recovery trajectories between the codes which relate to athlete characteristics, and/or locomotor and collision characteristics. Finally, based on these findings, we offer a conceptual model of fatigue which details the multidimensional latent structure of the load to fatigue relationship contextualised to rugby. Research to date has been limited to univariate associations to explore relationships between collision characteristics and recovery, and multivariate methods are necessary and recommended to account for the latent structures of match-play external load and post-match fatigue constructs. Practitioners should be aware of the typical time windows of fatigue recovery and utilise both subjective and objective metrics to holistically quantify post-match recovery in rugby.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitchell Naughton
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Human Factors and Sociotechnical Systems, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Scott McLean
- Centre for Human Factors and Sociotechnical Systems, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
| | - Tannath J Scott
- New South Wales Rugby League, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW, Australia.,Carnegie Applied Rugby Research Centre, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Dan Weaving
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research Centre, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom.,Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Colin Solomon
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia.,Centre for Human Factors and Sociotechnical Systems, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, QLD, Australia
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9
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Fields JB, Merigan JM, Gallo S, White JB, Jones MT. External and Internal Load Measures During Preseason Training in Men Collegiate Soccer Athletes. J Strength Cond Res 2021; 35:2572-2578. [PMID: 34431484 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004092] [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 Fields, JB, Merigan, JM, Gallo, S, White, JB, and Jones, MT. External and internal load measures during preseason training in men collegiate soccer athletes. J Strength Cond Res 35(9): 2572-2578, 2021-Collegiate athletes are exposed to high volume loads during preseason training. Monitoring training load can inform training and recovery periods. Therefore, the purpose was to examine changes in and bidirectional relationship between external and internal load metrics in men collegiate soccer athletes (n = 20; age, 20 ± 1 year). Internal load measures of heart rate variability (HRV), salivary testosterone (T) and cortisol (C), and self-assessment wellness and ratings of perceived exertion scales were collected daily. External load measures of total distance, player load, high-speed distance, high inertial movement analysis, and repeated high-intensity efforts were collected in each training session using global positioning system/global navigation satellite system technology. A 1-way analysis of variance determined weekly changes in external load, physiological, hormonal, and subjective self-assessment measures of internal load. Bidirectional prediction of external load markers and self-assessment measures on physiological and hormonal markers of internal load were assessed by hierarchical linear regression models (p < 0.05). External load measures, C, energy, sleep, and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) decreased (p < 0.01), whereas T, T:C ratio, anger, depression, and vigor increased (p < 0.01) from week 1 to week 2. Morning C positively predicted afternoon external load and post-training RPE (p < 0.05); T:C ratio negatively predicted afternoon external load and post-training RPE (p < 0.05); and morning HRV negatively predicted post-training RPE (p = 0.031). Despite reduced hormonal stress and external load across weeks, negative perceptions of fatigue increased, suggesting fatigue patterns may have a delayed response. Load may have a more belated, chronic effect on perceptions of fatigue, whereas hormonal changes may be more immediate and sensitive to change. Practitioners may wish to use a variety of external and internal load measures to understand athletes' stress responses to training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer B Fields
- Department of Exercise Science and Athletic Training, Springfield College, Springfield, Massachusetts.,Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
| | - Justin M Merigan
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia.,Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia
| | - Sina Gallo
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia.,Department of Food and Nutrition, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Jason B White
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia.,Exercise Physiology, Ohio University, Athens, Ohio; and
| | - Margaret T Jones
- Patriot Performance Laboratory, Frank Pettrone Center for Sports Performance, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia.,Sport, Recreation, and Tourism Management, George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia
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10
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Ramírez-López C, Till K, Weaving D, Boyd A, Peeters A, Beasley G, Bradley S, Giuliano P, Venables C, Jones B. Does perceived wellness influence technical-tactical match performance? A study in youth international rugby using partial least squares correlation analysis. Eur J Sport Sci 2021; 22:1085-1093. [PMID: 34075847 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2021.1936195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between matchday wellness status and a technical-tactical performance construct during rugby match-play. One hundred and thirty-three male rugby union players (73 forwards and 60 backs) from five under-18 national squads who participated in the under-18 Six Nations competition completed a subjective wellness questionnaire on each matchday morning. Players subjectively rated each item (sleep quality, fatigue, muscle soreness, stress and mood) on a five-point Likert scale to calculate their daily wellness status (i.e. difference between matchday and baseline perceived wellness). Technical-tactical performance during match-play was quantified by coding individual key performance indicators (e.g. number of carries, number of tackles). Partial least squares correlation analysis (PLSCA) was employed to compute the latent variables of perceived wellness status (X matrix) and technical-tactical performance (Y matrix) for each player observation (n = 271). The latent variables are a construct of each variable group, enabling higher dimensional data to be visualised more simply. Linear mixed-effect models were later conducted to assess the relationships between the latent variables. The effect of perceived wellness status on technical-tactical performance was statistically significant in forwards (p = .042), not statistically significant in backs (p = .120) and accounted for 4.9% and 1.9% variance in the technical-tactical performance construct, respectively. The findings of this study suggest that perceived wellness status can influence technical-tactical match performance, but the practical significance of these findings should be interpreted with caution given the amount of variance in technical-tactical performance accounted by the models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Ramírez-López
- Leeds Beckett University, Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds, UK.,Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Union Club, Leeds, UK.,England Performance Unit, The Rugby Football League, Leeds, UK
| | - Kevin Till
- Leeds Beckett University, Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Dan Weaving
- Leeds Beckett University, Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Andy Boyd
- Scottish Rugby Union, Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Alexis Peeters
- French Rugby Federation, Centre National de Rugby, Marcoussis, France
| | - Grant Beasley
- Rugby Football Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, UK
| | - Sam Bradley
- Welsh Rugby Union, Principality Stadium, Cardiff, UK.,English Institute of Sport, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Charlie Venables
- Leeds Beckett University, Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds, UK
| | - Ben Jones
- Leeds Beckett University, Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds, UK.,England Performance Unit, The Rugby Football League, Leeds, UK.,Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK.,School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia.,Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, the University of Cape Town and the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
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11
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Springham M, Williams S, Waldron M, Strudwick AJ, Mclellan C, Newton RU. Salivary Immunoendocrine and Self-report Monitoring Profiles across an Elite-Level Professional Football Season. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2021; 53:918-927. [PMID: 33394896 DOI: 10.1249/mss.0000000000002553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE This investigation examined the longitudinal changes and interrelationships of salivary and self-report monitoring measures across a professional football season. METHODS Measures were collected biweekly from 18 senior professional male players across a 6-wk preseason and eight 5-wk in-season mesocycles and analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model. RESULTS Analysis identified a small (P = 0.003) cross-season suppression of salivary immunoglobulin A, small reductions to salivary α-amylase (P = 0.047) and salivary cortisol (P = 0.007), and trivial changes to salivary testosterone (P > 0.05). The testosterone/cortisol ratio typically responded inversely to changes in player workload. Self-report measures of fatigue (P = 0.030), sleep quality (P = 0.003), and muscle soreness (P = 0.005) improved (ES = small) across the first half of the season. Fatigue and sleep measures were most consistently related to hormonal measures (R2 = 0.43-0.45). For these relationships, increases in cortisol were associated with compromised self-report responses, whereas increases in testosterone/cortisol were associated with improved responses. Nonlinear relationships were identified for fatigue with immunoglobulin A (P = 0.017; ES = trivial) and testosterone (P = 0.012; ES = trivial), for sleep quality with testosterone (P < 0.001; ES = trivial), for muscle soreness with testosterone (P = 0.012; ES = trivial), and for the self-report inventory sum with testosterone (P = 0.027; ES = trivial). For these relationships, self-report responses were optimal at mean immunoglobulin A and testosterone levels, and very low levels (-2 SD) exerted the most compromising effects. CONCLUSIONS Players can experience a chronic cross-season suppression of mucosal immunity. Salivary immunoglobulin A, testosterone, cortisol, and testosterone/cortisol measures relate to self-report measures of fatigue, sleep quality, and muscle soreness. In-season reductions in testosterone, cortisol, and testosterone/cortisol or increases in cortisol among elite football players could be used to indicate the need for reduced workload, which might lead to improved well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sean Williams
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, UNITED KINGDOM
| | | | - Anthony J Strudwick
- Sport Science Department, Football Association of Wales, Cardiff, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Chris Mclellan
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of South Queensland, Toowoomba, AUSTRALIA
| | - Robert U Newton
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, AUSTRALIA
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12
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The Travel Demands of an Elite Rugby Sevens Team: Effects on Objective and Subjective Sleep Parameters. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2021; 16:688-694. [PMID: 33540379 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2020-0243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 06/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To explore the effects of travel related to international rugby sevens competition on sleep patterns. METHODS A total of 17 international male rugby sevens players participated in this study. Actigraphic and subjective sleep assessments were performed daily during 2 separate Sevens World Series competition legs (Oceania and America). The duration of each competition leg was subdivided into key periods (pretour, precompetition, tournament 1, relocation, tournament 2, and posttour) lasting 2 to 7 nights. Linear mixed models in combination with magnitude-based decisions were used to assess (1) the difference between preseason and key periods and (2) the effect of travel direction (eastward or westward). RESULTS Shorter total sleep time (hours:minutes) was observed during tournament 2 (mean [SD], 06:16 [01:08]), relocation (06:09 [01:09]), and the pretour week (06:34 [01:24]) compared with the preseason (06:52 [01:00]). Worse sleep quality (arbitrary units) was observed during tournament 1 (6.1 [2.0]) and 2 (5.7 [1.2]), as well as during the relocation week (6.3 [1.5]) than during the preseason (6.5 [1.8]). When traveling eastward compared with westward, earlier fall-asleep time was observed during tournament 1 (ES - 0.57; 90% CI, -1.12 to -0.01), the relocation week (-0.70 [-1.11 to -0.28]), and the posttour (-0.57 [-0.95 to -0.18]). However, possibly trivial and unclear differences were observed during the precompetition week (0.15 [-0.15 to 0.45]) and tournament 2 (0.81 [-0.29 to 1.91]). CONCLUSION The sleep patterns of elite rugby sevens players are robust to the effects of long-haul travel and jet lag. However, the staff should consider promoting sleep during the tournament and relocation week.
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13
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Training sessions with tackles impair upper-limb neuromuscular function in elite rugby union. Biol Sport 2020; 37:415-422. [PMID: 33343075 PMCID: PMC7725038 DOI: 10.5114/biolsport.2020.96945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the response to non-tackle and tackle field-based training on upper- and lower-limb neuromuscular function in elite rugby union players. Nine elite senior elite rugby union players (mean age = 21 ± 2 years; height = 184 ± 7 cm; body mass 91.0 ± 9 kg) were evaluated before and immediately following 17 training sessions. A total of 306 assessments were performed. Data on neuromuscular function of plyometric push-up and countermovement jump were calculated from force signals using inverse dynamics. The change from pre- to post-session was investigated across non-tackle and tackle training using a linear mixed model. Considering upper-limb neuromuscular function, peak concentric power [P = 0.024; ES = 0.33 95%CI (0.04, 0.62)] was significantly lower after tackle compared to non-tackle training. In addition, peak countermovement jump eccentric power was significantly lower after non-tackle compared to tackle training [P = 0.044; ES = -0.4 95%CI (-0.69, -0.1)] in lower-limb neuromuscular function. Overall, the results indicated that the type of training influences upper- and lower-limb neuromuscular function differently immediately after training. Indeed, due to physical contact, the upper-body neuromuscular function increased during tackle training. In contrast, lower-body neuromuscular function emerged only in non-tackle training, due to the greater distance covered during this type of training session. Coaches and practitioners should plan adequate weekly training sessions according to this information.
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14
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Crewther BT, Hecht M, Potts N, Kilduff LP, Drawer S, Marshall E, Cook CJ. A longitudinal investigation of bidirectional and time-dependent interrelationships between testosterone and training motivation in an elite rugby environment. Horm Behav 2020; 126:104866. [PMID: 33002456 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In sport, testosterone has been positioned as a substrate for motivation with both directional and time dependencies. However, evidence is scarce when considering the complexities of competitive sport and no work has explicitly modeled these dependencies. To address these gaps, we investigated the bidirectional and time-dependent interrelationships between testosterone and training motivation in an elite rugby environment. Thirty-six male athletes were monitored across training weeks before and after eight international rugby matches. Pre-breakfast measures of salivary testosterone and training motivation (1-10 rating) were taken on training, competition, and recovery days (up to 40 tests). Using a continuous-time (CT) model, within-person estimates of autoregressive effects (persistence) and cross-lagged effects (relationships) were derived. A stronger, more persistent temporal association was identified for testosterone than for motivation. Cross-lagged effects verified that training motivation was positively related to testosterone at latter time points (p < 0.001). Discrete-time analyses revealed a non-linear association; increasing in strength from a zero-time lag to peak after 2.83 days (standardized effect = 0.25), before dissipation over longer lagged intervals. The testosterone relationship with ensuing training motivation was also positive, but non-significant. Match effects also appeared (p < 0.001) with a predicted decline in training motivation, but a rise in testosterone, at match onset. In summary, a positive association emerged between within-person fluctuations in self-appraised motivation to train and testosterone concentration in an elite rugby environment. The lagged, non-linear nature of this relationship and match predictions on both outcomes support, and extend, theoretical models linking testosterone and competitive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair T Crewther
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Poland; Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK.
| | | | | | - Liam P Kilduff
- A-STEM, School of Engineering, Swansea University, UK; Welsh Institute of Performance Science (WIPS), Swansea University, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Marshall
- Human Performance, Sport and Physiology Group, Brain-Behaviour Research Group, School of Science and Technology University of New England, Australia
| | - Christian J Cook
- Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK; A-STEM, School of Engineering, Swansea University, UK; Human Performance, Sport and Physiology Group, Brain-Behaviour Research Group, School of Science and Technology University of New England, Australia
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15
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Hagum CN, Shalfawi SAI. The Factorial Validity of the Norwegian Version of the Multicomponent Training Distress Scale (MTDS-N). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E7603. [PMID: 33086587 PMCID: PMC7590227 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17207603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Athlete self-report measures (ASRM) are methods of athlete monitoring, which have gained considerable popularity in recent years. The Multicomponent Training Distress Scale (MTDS), consisting of 22 items, is a promising self-report measure to assess training distress among athletes. The present study aimed to investigate the factorial validity of the Norwegian version of MTDS (MTDS-N) among student-athletes (n = 632) attending the optional program subject "Top-Level Sports" in upper secondary schools in Norway. METHODS A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to assess the six-factor model proposed by Main and Grove (2009). McDonald's omega (ω) along with confidence intervals (CIs) were used to estimate scale reliability. After examining the fit of the CFA model in the total sample, covariates were included to investigate group differences in latent variables of MTDS-N, resulting in the multiple indicators multiple causes (MIMIC) model. Further, direct paths between the covariates and the factor indicators were included in an extended MIMIC model to investigate whether responses to items differed between groups, resulting in differential item functioning (DIF). RESULTS When modification indices (MIs) were taken into consideration, the alternative CFA model revealed that MTDS-N is an acceptable psychometric tool with a good fit index. The factors in MTDS-N all constituted high scale reliability with McDonald's ω ranging from 0.725-0.862. The results indicated statistically significant group differences in factor scores for gender, type of sport, hours of training per week, school program, and school level. Further, results showed that DIF occurred in 13 of the MTDS-N items. The student-athletes' reports of training distress were moderate. CONCLUSION The MTDS-N may be suitable for use in a Norwegian population to assess student-athletes' training distress in a reliable manner. The indications of group effects suggest that caution should be used if one is interested in making group comparisons when the MTDS-N is used among student-athletes in Norway until further research is conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathrine Nyhus Hagum
- Department of Education and Sports Science, University of Stavanger, 4036 Stavanger, Norway;
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16
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Managing Load to Optimize Well-Being and Recovery During Short-Term Match Congestion in Elite Basketball. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2020; 16:45-50. [PMID: 33004680 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2019-0916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In elite basketball, players are exposed to intensified competition periods when participating in both national and international competitions. How coaches manage training between matches and in reference to match scheduling for a full season is not yet known. PURPOSE First, to compare load during short-term match congestion (ie, ≥2-match weeks) with regular competition (ie, 1-match weeks) in elite male professional basketball players. Second, to determine changes in well-being, recovery, neuromuscular performance, and injuries and illnesses between short-term match congestion and regular competition. METHODS Sixteen basketball players (age 24.8 [2.0] y, height 195.8 [7.5] cm, weight 94.8 [14.0] kg, body fat 11.9% [5.0%], VO2max 51.9 [5.3] mL·kg-1·min-1) were monitored during a full season. Session rating of perceived exertion (s-RPE) was obtained, and load was calculated (s-RPE × duration) for each training session or match. Perceived well-being (fatigue, sleep quality, general muscle soreness, stress levels, and mood) and total quality of recovery were assessed each training day. Countermovement jump height was measured, and a list of injuries and illnesses was collected weekly using the adapted Oslo Sports Trauma Research Center Questionnaire on Health Problems. RESULTS Total load (training sessions and matches; P < .001) and training load (P < .001) were significantly lower for ≥2-match weeks. Significantly higher well-being (P = .01) and less fatigue (P = .001) were found during ≥2-match weeks compared with 1-match weeks. CONCLUSION Total load and training load were lower during short-term match congestion compared with regular competition. Furthermore, better well-being and less fatigue were demonstrated within short-term match congestion. This might indicate that coaches tend to overcompensate training load in intensified competition.
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17
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Aben HGJ, Hills SP, Cooke CB, Davis D, Jones B, Russell M. Profiling the Post-match Recovery Response in Male Rugby: A Systematic Review. J Strength Cond Res 2020; 36:2050-2067. [PMID: 33003172 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000003741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Aben, HGJ, Hills, SP, Cooke, CB, Davis, D, Jones, B, and Russell, M. Profiling the post-match recovery response in male rugby: A systematic review. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2020-To minimize underperformance, injury, and illness, and to enhance readiness for training and match-play, post-match responses are commonly monitored within professional rugby. As no clear consensus exists regarding the magnitude and duration of post-match recovery, this review summarized the literature (17 studies yielded from literature searching/screening) reporting neuromuscular (countermovement jump [CMJ], peak power output [PP], and flight time [FT]), biochemical (creatine kinase [CK]) or endocrine (cortisol [C] and testosterone [T] concentrations), and subjective (wellness questionnaire and muscle soreness) indices after rugby match-play. For neuromuscular responses (11 studies), reductions in PP <31.5% occurred <30 minutes after match, returning to baseline within 48-72 hours. Post-match reductions in FT of <4% recovered after 48 hours. For biochemical and endocrine responses (14 studies), increases in CK, ranging from 120 to 451%, peaked between 12 and 24 hours, returning to baseline within 72 hours of match-play. Initial increases of <298% in C and reductions in T concentrations (<44%) returned to pre-match values within 48-72 hours. Mood disturbances (6 studies) required 48-72 hours to normalize after peak decrements of <65% at 24 hours. This review highlights that 72 hours were needed to restore perturbations in neuromuscular, biochemical and endocrine, and subjective/perceptual responses after competitive rugby match-play. Notably, only 4 studies reported responses in more ecologically valid scenarios (i.e., those in which regular training and recovery strategies were used) while also reporting detailed match demands. A lack of research focusing on youth players was also evident, as only 3 studies profiled post-match responses in younger athletes. Deeper insight regarding post-match responses in ecologically valid scenarios is therefore required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendrickus G J Aben
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds, United Kingdom.,Castleford Tigers RLFC, the Mend-A-Hose Jungle, Castleford, United Kingdom
| | - Samuel P Hills
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Carlton B Cooke
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Danielle Davis
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Jones
- Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom.,England Performance Unit, the Rugby Football League, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Russell
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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18
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Aben HGJ, Hills SP, Higgins D, Cooke CB, Davis D, Jones B, Russell M. The Reliability of Neuromuscular and Perceptual Measures Used to Profile Recovery, and the Time-Course of such Responses following Academy Rugby League Match-Play. Sports (Basel) 2020; 8:E73. [PMID: 32456075 PMCID: PMC7281125 DOI: 10.3390/sports8050073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In professional academy rugby league (RL) players, this two-part study examined; A) the within- and between-day reliability of isometric mid-thigh pulls (IMTP), countermovement jumps (CMJ), and a wellness questionnaire (n = 11), and B) profiled the responses with acceptable reliability (no between-trial differences and between-day coefficient of variation (CV) ≤10% and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) ≥0.8) for 120 h (baseline: -3, +24, +48, +72, +96, +120 h) following RL match-play (n = 10). In part A, force at 200, and 250 ms, and peak force (PF) demonstrated acceptable within- (CV%: 3.67-8.41%, ICC: 0.89-0.93) and between-day (CV%: 4.34-8.62%, ICC: 0.87-0.92) reliability for IMTP. Most CMJ variables demonstrated acceptable within-day reliability (CV%: 3.03-7.34%, ICC: 0.82-0.98), but only six (i.e., flight-time, PF, peak power (PP), relative PP, velocity at take-off (VTO), jump-height (JH)) showed acceptable between-day reliability (CV%: 2.56-6.79%, ICC: 0.83-0.91). Only total wellness demonstrated acceptable between-day reliability (CV%: 7.05%, ICC: 0.90) from the questionnaire. In part B, reductions of 4.75% and 9.23% (vs. baseline; 2.54 m∙s-1; 0.33 m) occurred at +24 h for CMJ VTO, and JH, respectively. Acceptable reliability was observed in some, but not all, variables and the magnitude and time-course of post-match responses were test and variable specific. Practitioners should therefore be mindful of the influence that the choice of recovery monitoring tool may have upon the practical interpretation of the data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hendrickus G. J. Aben
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds LS18 5HD, UK; (H.G.J.A.); (S.P.H.); (C.B.C.); (D.D.)
- Castleford Tigers RLFC, The Mend-A-Hose Jungle, Castleford WF10 2SD, UK;
| | - Samuel P. Hills
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds LS18 5HD, UK; (H.G.J.A.); (S.P.H.); (C.B.C.); (D.D.)
| | - Darren Higgins
- Castleford Tigers RLFC, The Mend-A-Hose Jungle, Castleford WF10 2SD, UK;
| | - Carlton B. Cooke
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds LS18 5HD, UK; (H.G.J.A.); (S.P.H.); (C.B.C.); (D.D.)
| | - Danielle Davis
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds LS18 5HD, UK; (H.G.J.A.); (S.P.H.); (C.B.C.); (D.D.)
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS6 3QT, UK;
- England Performance Unit, The Rugby Football League, Leeds LS17 8NB, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby Club, Leeds LS6 3BR, UK
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England; Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
- Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, the University of Cape Town and the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town 7725, South Africa
| | - Mark Russell
- School of Social and Health Sciences, Leeds Trinity University, Leeds LS18 5HD, UK; (H.G.J.A.); (S.P.H.); (C.B.C.); (D.D.)
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19
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Till K, Weakley J, Read DB, Phibbs P, Darrall-Jones J, Roe G, Chantler S, Mellalieu S, Hislop M, Stokes K, Rock A, Jones B. Applied Sport Science for Male Age-Grade Rugby Union in England. SPORTS MEDICINE-OPEN 2020; 6:14. [PMID: 32086645 PMCID: PMC7035403 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-020-0236-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Rugby union (RU) is a skill-collision team sport played at junior and senior levels worldwide. Within England, age-grade rugby governs the participation and talent development of youth players. The RU player development pathway has recently been questioned, regarding player performance and well-being, which sport science research can address. The purpose of this review was to summarise and critically appraise the literature in relation to the applied sport science of male age-grade RU players in England focussing upon (1) match-play characteristics, (2) training exposures, (3) physical qualities, (4) fatigue and recovery, (5) nutrition, (6) psychological challenges and development, and (7) injury. Current research evidence suggests that age, playing level and position influence the match-play characteristics of age-grade RU. Training exposures of players are described as 'organised chaos' due to the multiple environments and stakeholders involved in coordinating training schedules. Fatigue is apparent up to 72 h post match-play. Well-developed physical qualities are important for player development and injury risk reduction. The nutritional requirements are high due to the energetic costs of collisions. Concerns around the psychological characteristics have also been identified (e.g. perfectionism). Injury risk is an important consideration with prevention strategies available. This review highlights the important multi-disciplinary aspects of sport science for developing age-grade RU players for continued participation and player development. The review describes where some current practices may not be optimal, provides a framework to assist practitioners to effectively prepare age-grade players for the holistic demands of youth RU and considers areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK. .,Leeds Rhinos RLFC, Leeds, UK. .,Yorkshire Carnegie RUFC, Leeds, UK.
| | - Jonathon Weakley
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Dale B Read
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
| | - Padraic Phibbs
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Leinster Rugby, Belfield, Dublin, Republic of Ireland
| | - Josh Darrall-Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Bath RUFC, Bath, UK
| | - Greg Roe
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Bath RUFC, Bath, UK
| | - Sarah Chantler
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Yorkshire Carnegie RUFC, Leeds, UK
| | | | | | - Keith Stokes
- University of Bath, Bath, UK.,Rugby Football Union, London, UK
| | | | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK.,Leeds Rhinos RLFC, Leeds, UK.,Yorkshire Carnegie RUFC, Leeds, UK.,England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Red Hall, Leeds, UK.,School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, Australia.,Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Cape Town and the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
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20
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Ramírez-López C, Till K, Sawczuk T, Giuliano P, Peeters A, Beasley G, Murray F, Pledger S, Read D, Jones B. A multi-nation examination of the fatigue and recovery time course during the inaugural Under-18 Six Nations rugby union competition. J Sports Sci 2020; 38:644-651. [DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1722589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Ramírez-López
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Union Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Kevin Till
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Union Club, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
| | - Thomas Sawczuk
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | | | - Alexis Peeters
- French Rugby Federation, Centre National de Rugby, Marcoussis, France
| | - Grant Beasley
- Rugby Football Union, Twickenham Stadium, London, UK
| | - Fraser Murray
- Scottish Rugby Union, Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Dale Read
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, UK
- England Performance Unit, The Rugby Football League, Leeds, UK
- School of Science and Technology, University of New England, Armidale, Australia
- Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of Cape Town and the Sports Science Institute of South Africa, Cape Town, South Africa
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Grainger A, Comfort P, Heffernan S. No Effect of Partial-Body Cryotherapy on Restoration of Countermovement Jump or Well-Being Performance in Elite Rugby Union Players During the Competitive Phase of the Season. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2020; 15:98-104. [PMID: 31034293 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2018-0911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Partial body cryotherapy (PBC) has been shown to be beneficial for postexercise recovery; however, no study has demonstrated the effectiveness of PBC for recovery following elite rugby union training. Rugby union is a unique sport that involves high-velocity collisions and may induce greater performance decrements than other sports; thus, PBC could be beneficial. The application of PBC in "real world" has rarely been investigated during the competitive phase of a playing season and warranted investigation. METHODS In a counterbalanced sequential research design, professional rugby athletes (n = 18; age 25.4 [4.0] y; training age 7.2 [4.0] y; mass 99.8 [10.6] kg; height 188.3 [6.0] cm) were assigned to a 12-week PBC intervention, washout period (4 wk), and reassessed as their own controls. Self-reported well-being, muscle soreness, sleep quality, and countermovement jump height were assessed before and 40 hours after "real-world" training. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests and Cohen d were used for statistical analysis. RESULTS No differences were observed between PBC and control conditions (P > .05; d = 0.00-0.14) for well-being (-0.02% [0.08%] vs 0.01% [0.06%]), muscle soreness (-0.01% [0.11%] vs 0.01% [0.16%]), sleep quality (-0.03% [0.14%] vs 0.10% [0.29%]), or countermovement jump height (36.48-36.59 vs 38.13-37.52 cm; P = .54). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest PBC is ineffective for the restoration of selected performance parameters during the performance maintenance phase of the competitive season. To ascertain the appropriation of its use, future investigations should seek to assess the use of cryotherapies at various phases of the elite rugby union competitive season.
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Crewther BT, Potts N, Kilduff LP, Drawer S, Cook CJ. Performance indicators during international rugby union matches are influenced by a combination of physiological and contextual variables. J Sci Med Sport 2019; 23:396-402. [PMID: 31706825 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2019.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 09/20/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research has linked physiological (e.g., hormonal, affective, fatigue) outcomes to performance indicators in rugby competition, but no work has integrated and contextualised these factors within a test-match environment. We addressed this gap by monitoring 29 athletes from a training squad across eight international rugby matches. DESIGN Longitudinal observational study. METHODS Pre-match (8-9am) measures of salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations, sleep duration, pulse rate, muscle soreness, stress, mood, and motivation were taken. Contextual factors were playing time, internal training load (ITL), test-match experience, opponent ranking, and crowd size. Performance was indexed by coach and player ratings of performance (CRP, PRP) and quantitative metrics; offloads, turnovers, runs with ball in hand (RWB), tackles, passes, and defenders beaten (DFB). RESULTS Morning cortisol, sleep and mood were positively related to CRP and PRP (standardised coefficient estimates from 0.17 to 0.22). Cortisol, sleep, stress, mood and motivation were associated with one (or more) of turnovers, RWB, tackles, passes and DFB (incidence rate ratio [IRR] from 0.74 to 1.40). Playing time was positively related to all quantitative performance indicators (IRR from 1.01 to 1.04) with ITL, opponent ranking, and crowd size predicting selected outputs (IRR from 0.89 to 1.15). The explanatory models varied (conditional R2=0.15-0.83) but were generally stronger with both physiological and contextual inputs. CONCLUSIONS Multiple physiological and contextual factors appear to contribute to player performance in international rugby competition. Measurement of these factors may guide training and management practices, a potential practical consequence but also advancing understanding from marker to causal link.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair T Crewther
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Poland; Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK.
| | | | - Liam P Kilduff
- A-STEM, School of Engineering, Swansea University, UK; Welsh Institute of Performance Science (WIPS), Swansea University, UK
| | | | - Christian J Cook
- Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK; A-STEM, School of Engineering, Swansea University, UK; University of New England, Australia; Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, University of Canberra, Australia
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Tee JC, Coopoo Y, Lambert M. Pacing characteristics of whole and part-game players in professional rugby union. Eur J Sport Sci 2019; 20:722-733. [PMID: 31446859 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2019.1660410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Contemporary theories on players' intensity distribution in team sports suggest that they regulate their outputs using pacing strategies. There is currently limited information on how movement patterns and pacing strategies of rugby union players in different position groups (forwards and backs) vary when exposed to different bout types (whole game, starter or finisher). Global positioning system (GPS) and accelerometer data were collected from 100 professional match participations to determine temporal effects on movement patterns. For forwards, finishers (players who entered the game as substitutes) demonstrated significantly greater high-speed running distance (% difference, ± 90%CI; magnitude-based inference and effect size) (↑ 55, ±17%; very likely large) and acceleration frequency (↑ 78, ±59%; very likely large) than whole game players. For backs, starters (players who started the game and were later substituted) displayed greater high-speed running distance than whole game players (↑ 27, ±21%; ES = likely medium) but this difference did not achieve statistical significance (p = .07). Forwards displayed "slow-positive" pacing strategies regardless of bout type, while backs displayed "flat" pacing strategies. Forwards and backs adopt different pacing strategies regardless of bout type, with forwards demonstrating progressively greater performance decrements over the course of the match. These findings reflect differing physical demands, notably contact and running loads, of players in different positions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason C Tee
- Department of Sport Studies, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Durban University of Technology, Durban, South Africa.,Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, UK
| | - Yoga Coopoo
- Department of Sport and Movement Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Johannesburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Mike Lambert
- Division of Exercise Science and Sports Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Durguerian A, Piscione J, Mathieu B, Lacome M. Integrating Strength and Power Development in the Long-Term Athletic Development of Young Rugby Union Players: Methodological and Practical Applications. Strength Cond J 2019. [DOI: 10.1519/ssc.0000000000000452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Dunican IC, Higgin CC, Murray K, Jones MJ, Dawson B, Caldwell JA, Halson SL, Eastwood PR. Sleep Patterns and Alertness in an Elite Super Rugby Team During a Game Week. J Hum Kinet 2019; 67:111-121. [PMID: 31523310 PMCID: PMC6714368 DOI: 10.2478/hukin-2018-0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep is a vital component of preparation, performance and recovery for a Super Rugby game. The purpose of this study was to quantify sleep behaviours and alertness of professional rugby union players during training and a game. Thirty-six rugby union players from a Super Rugby team wore a wrist-activity device (Readiband™) to measure sleep for 3 days before, 3 days after and on the night of an evening game. Players were separated into those selected to play the game (n = 23) and those who were not (n = 13). Alertness was assessed for all training and game times using bio-mathematical modelling. Alertness measures ≤90% were considered to reflect impaired reaction time. Those selected to play in the game progressively increased sleep duration over the nights prior to the game (by 92 min p ≤ 0.05) by delaying wake time. Players went to bed later after the game (02:20 ± 114 min vs 22:57 ± 60 min; p ≤ 0.001) which resulted in decreased sleep duration on game night compared to pre-game nights (296 ± 179 min vs 459 ± 78 min; p ≤ 0.05). Four players did not achieve any sleep on game night. Sleep duration appeared to be truncated by early morning training sessions (before 08:00) on the second and third mornings after the game. Alertness was >90% for all training and game times for all players. In conclusion, in the days leading into a Super Rugby game, players delay morning time at wake and consequently increase sleep duration with post-game sleep reduced in some.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian C Dunican
- Centre for Sleep Science, School of Huma Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Charles C Higgin
- Western Force, Rugby Western Australia, FloreatWA 6014, Australia
| | - Kevin Murray
- School of Population and Global Health, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Maddison J Jones
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Brian Dawson
- School of Human Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
| | | | - Shona L Halson
- Department of Physiology, Australian Institute of Sport, Leverrier Street, Bruce, ACT, 2617, Australia
| | - Peter R Eastwood
- Centre for Sleep Science, School of Huma Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
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26
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Troester JC, Duffield R. Monitoring residual 36 h post-match neuromuscular fatigue in rugby union; a role for postural control? Eur J Sport Sci 2019; 19:1312-1319. [PMID: 31032738 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2019.1606941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated single-leg balance and landing measures, respectively, at the beginning of a weekly micro-cycle 36 h after a match compared to 48 h rest without any match load. Twenty-seven professional rugby union players performed balance and landing tests on a 1000 Hz force plate across three in-season micro-cycles either with or without match loads in the prior 36 h. Participants were further sub-divided into higher and lower match load groups to investigate changes in balance and landing variables. Differences between rested and 36 h post-match single-leg balance sway velocity were trivial in all cases, except for the higher-load group on the dominant leg, which were possibly impaired 36 h post-match (ES ± 90% CL = 0.68 ± 0.66). Differences between rested and 36 h post-match single-leg landing measures of relative impulse on the non-dominant leg were possibly lower (0.36 ± 0.34), with possible impairment observed on both legs in the higher load group 36 h post-match (0.39 ± 0.33; 0.49 ± 0.42). Differences in landing measures of peak force and time to stabilisation were mainly trivial (ES < 0.20). Postural control measures at 36 h post-match are comparable to a rested state; though impairment of sway velocity on the dominant leg and landing impulse may indicate residual neuromuscular fatigue resulting from increased match exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan C Troester
- Sport and Exercise Discipline Group, University of Technology Sydney , Moore Park , Australia.,High Performance Department, NSW Waratahs Rugby , Sydney , Australia
| | - Rob Duffield
- Sport and Exercise Discipline Group, University of Technology Sydney , Moore Park , Australia
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Troester JC, Jasmin JG, Duffield R. The influence of training load on postural control and countermovement jump responses in rugby union. SCI MED FOOTBALL 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2019.1598621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jordan C. Troester
- High-Performance Department, NSW Waratahs Rugby, Moore Park, NSW, Australia
- Sport and Exercise Discipline Group, University of Technology Sydney, Moore Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Jason G. Jasmin
- High-Performance Department, NSW Waratahs Rugby, Moore Park, NSW, Australia
- Sport and Exercise Discipline Group, University of Technology Sydney, Moore Park, NSW, Australia
| | - Rob Duffield
- Sport and Exercise Discipline Group, University of Technology Sydney, Moore Park, NSW, Australia
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28
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Pereira LA, Nakamura FY, Moraes JE, Kitamura K, Ramos SP, Loturco I. Movement Patterns and Muscle Damage During Simulated Rugby Sevens Matches in National Team Players. J Strength Cond Res 2018; 32:3456-3465. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000001866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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29
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Williams N, Russell M, Cook C, Kilduff L. The effect of lower limb occlusion on recovery following sprint exercise in academy rugby players. J Sci Med Sport 2018; 21:1095-1099. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2018.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 01/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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Workload, Fatigue, and Muscle Damage in an Under-20 Rugby Union Team Over an Intensified International Tournament. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2018; 13:1059-1066. [PMID: 29431537 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2017-0464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the effects of an intensified tournament on workload, perceptual and neuromuscular fatigue, and muscle-damage responses in an international under-20 rugby union team. METHODS Players were subdivided into a high-exposure group (HEG, n = 13) and a low-exposure group (LEG, n = 11) according to match-play exposure time. Measures monitored over the 19-d period included training session (n = 10) and match (n = 5) workload determined via global positioning systems and session rating of perceived exertion. Well-being scores, countermovement jump height performance, and blood creatine kinase concentrations were collected at various time points. RESULTS Analysis of workload cumulated across the tournament entirety for training and match play combined showed that high-speed running distance was similar between groups, while a very likely larger session rating of perceived exertion load was reported in HEG vs LEG. In HEG, high-speed activity fluctuated across the 5 successive matches, albeit with no clear trend for a progressive decrease. No clear tendency for a progressive decrease in well-being scores prior to or following matches was observed in either group. In HEG, trivial to possibly small reductions in postmatch countermovement jump performance were observed, while unclear to most likely moderate increases in prematch blood creatine kinase concentrations occurred until prior to match 4. CONCLUSIONS The magnitude of match-to-match changes in external workload, perceptual and neuromuscular fatigue, and muscle damage was generally unclear or small. These results suggest that irrespective of exposure time to match play players generally maintained performance and readiness to play across the intensified tournament. These findings support the need for holistic systematic player-monitoring programs.
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Jones CM, Griffiths PC, Mellalieu SD. Training Load and Fatigue Marker Associations with Injury and Illness: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies. Sports Med 2018; 47:943-974. [PMID: 27677917 PMCID: PMC5394138 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-016-0619-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Coaches, sport scientists, clinicians and medical personnel face a constant challenge to prescribe sufficient training load to produce training adaption while minimising fatigue, performance inhibition and risk of injury/illness. Objective The aim of this review was to investigate the relationship between injury and illness and longitudinal training load and fatigue markers in sporting populations. Methods Systematic searches of the Web of Science and PubMed online databases to August 2015 were conducted for articles reporting relationships between training load/fatigue measures and injury/illness in athlete populations. Results From the initial 5943 articles identified, 2863 duplicates were removed, followed by a further 2833 articles from title and abstract selection. Manual searching of the reference lists of the remaining 247 articles, together with use of the Google Scholar ‘cited by’ tool, yielded 205 extra articles deemed worthy of assessment. Sixty-eight studies were subsequently selected for inclusion in this study, of which 45 investigated injury only, 17 investigated illness only, and 6 investigated both injury and illness. This systematic review highlighted a number of key findings, including disparity within the literature regarding the use of various terminologies such as training load, fatigue, injury and illness. Athletes are at an increased risk of injury/illness at key stages in their training and competition, including periods of training load intensification and periods of accumulated training loads. Conclusions Further investigation of individual athlete characteristics is required due to their impact on internal training load and, therefore, susceptibility to injury/illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher M Jones
- Research Centre in Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine, College of Engineering, Swansea University, Fabian Way, Swansea, SA1 8QQ, Wales, UK.
| | - Peter C Griffiths
- Research Centre in Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine, College of Engineering, Swansea University, Fabian Way, Swansea, SA1 8QQ, Wales, UK
| | - Stephen D Mellalieu
- Cardiff School of Sport, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, Wales, UK
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32
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Watkins CM, Barillas SR, Wong MA, Archer DC, Dobbs IJ, Lockie RG, Coburn JW, Tran TT, Brown LE. Determination of Vertical Jump as a Measure of Neuromuscular Readiness and Fatigue. J Strength Cond Res 2018; 31:3305-3310. [PMID: 28902119 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000002231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Watkins, CM, Barillas, SR, Wong, MA, Archer, DC, Dobbs, IJ, Lockie, RG, Coburn, JW, Tran, TT, and Brown, LE. Determination of vertical jump as a measure of neuromuscular readiness and fatigue. J Strength Cond Res 31(12): 3305-3310, 2017-Coaches closely monitor training loads and periodize sessions throughout the season to create optimal adaptations at the proper time. However, only monitoring training loads ignores the innate physiological stress each athlete feels individually. Vertical jump (VJ) is widely used as a measure of lower-body power, and has been used in postmatch studies to demonstrate fatigue levels. However, no pretraining monitoring by VJ performance has been previously studied. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the sensitivity of VJ as a measure of readiness and fatigue on a daily sessional basis. Ten healthy resistance-trained males (mass = 91.60 ± 13.24 kg; height = 179.70 ± 9.23 cm; age = 25.40 ± 1.51 years) and 7 females (mass = 65.36 ± 12.29 kg; height = 162.36 ± 5.75 cm; age = 25.00 ± 2.71 years) volunteered to participate. Vertical jump and BRUNEL Mood Assessment (BAM) were measured 4 times: pre-workout 1, post-workout 1, pre-workout 2, and post-workout 2. Workout intensity was identical for both workouts, consisting of 4 sets of 5 repetitions for hang cleans, and 4 sets of 6 repetitions for push presses at 85% 1 repetition maximum (1RM), followed by 4 sets to failure of back squats (BSs), Romanian deadlift, and leg press at 80% 1RM. The major finding was that VJ height decrement (-8.05 ± 9.65 cm) at pre-workout 2 was correlated (r = 0.648) with BS volume decrement (-27.56 ± 24.56%) between workouts. This is important for coaches to proactively understand the current fatigue levels of their athletes and their readiness to resistance training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey M Watkins
- Human Performance Laboratory, Center for Sport Performance, Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton, California
| | - Saldiam R Barillas
- Human Performance Laboratory, Center for Sport Performance, Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton, California
| | - Megan A Wong
- Human Performance Laboratory, Center for Sport Performance, Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton, California
| | - David C Archer
- Human Performance Laboratory, Center for Sport Performance, Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton, California
| | - Ian J Dobbs
- Human Performance Laboratory, Center for Sport Performance, Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton, California
| | - Robert G Lockie
- Human Performance Laboratory, Center for Sport Performance, Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton, California
| | - Jared W Coburn
- Human Performance Laboratory, Center for Sport Performance, Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton, California
| | - Tai T Tran
- High Performance Centre, Canadian Sport Institute Pacific, Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Lee E Brown
- Human Performance Laboratory, Center for Sport Performance, Department of Kinesiology, California State University, Fullerton, California
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Crewther BT, Potts N, Kilduff LP, Drawer S, Cook CJ. Can salivary testosterone and cortisol reactivity to a mid-week stress test discriminate a match outcome during international rugby union competition? J Sci Med Sport 2018; 21:312-316. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2017.05.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2017] [Revised: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Doeven SH, Brink MS, Kosse SJ, Lemmink KAPM. Postmatch recovery of physical performance and biochemical markers in team ball sports: a systematic review. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2018. [PMID: 29527320 PMCID: PMC5841509 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2017-000264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Insufficient postmatch recovery in elite players may cause an increased risk of injuries, illnesses and non-functional over-reaching. Objective To evaluate postmatch recovery time courses of physical performance and biochemical markers in team ball sport players. Study design Systematic review. Data sources PubMed and Web of Science. Eligibility criteria for selecting studies This systematic review was conducted according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The Critical Review Form for Quantitative Studies was used to evaluate quality. Studies were included if they met the following criteria: (1) original research evaluated players’ physical recovery postmatch; (2) team/intermittent sports; and (3) at least two postmeasurements were compared with baseline values. Results Twenty-eight studies were eligible. Mean methodological quality was 11.2±1.11. Most used performance tests and biochemical markers were the countermovement jump test, sprint tests and creatine kinase (CK), cortisol (C) and testosterone (T), respectively. Summary/conclusions The current evidence demonstrates that underlying mechanisms of muscle recovery are still in progress while performance recovery is already reached. CK recovery time courses are up to ≥72 hours. Soccer and rugby players need more time to recover for sprint performance, CK and C in comparison to other team ball sports. There are more high-quality studies needed regarding recovery in various team sports and recovery strategies on an individual level should be evaluated. Clinical relevance Ongoing insufficient recovery can be prevented by the use of the presented recovery time courses as specific practical recovery guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven H Doeven
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands.,School of Sport Studies, Hanze University of Applied Sciences, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Michel S Brink
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Silke J Kosse
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Koen A P M Lemmink
- Center for Human Movement Sciences, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
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Carling CJ, Lacome M, Flanagan E, O’Doherty P, Piscione J. Exposure time, running and skill-related performance in international u20 rugby union players during an intensified tournament. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186874. [PMID: 29136039 PMCID: PMC5685587 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigated exposure time, running and skill-related performance in two international u20 rugby union teams during an intensified tournament: the 2015 Junior World Rugby Championship. METHOD Both teams played 5 matches in 19 days. Analyses were conducted using global positioning system (GPS) tracking (Viper 2™, Statsports Technologies Ltd) and event coding (Opta Pro®). RESULTS Of the 62 players monitored, 36 (57.1%) participated in 4 matches and 23 (36.5%) in all 5 matches while player availability for selection was 88%. Analyses of team running output (all players completing >60-min play) showed that the total and peak 5-minute high metabolic load distances covered were likely-to-very likely moderately higher in the final match compared to matches 1 and 2 in back and forward players. In individual players with the highest match-play exposure (participation in >75% of total competition playing time and >75-min in each of the final 3 matches), comparisons of performance in matches 4 and 5 versus match 3 (three most important matches) reported moderate-to-large decreases in total and high metabolic load distance in backs while similar magnitude reductions occurred in high-speed distance in forwards. In contrast, skill-related performance was unchanged, albeit with trivial and unclear changes, while there were no alterations in either total or high-speed running distance covered at the end of matches. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that despite high availability for selection, players were not over-exposed to match-play during an intensified u20 international tournament. They also imply that the teams coped with the running and skill-related demands. Similarly, individual players with the highest exposure to match-play were also able to maintain skill-related performance and end-match running output (despite an overall reduction in the latter). These results support the need for player rotation and monitoring of performance, recovery and intervention strategies during intensified tournaments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J. Carling
- Institute of Coaching and Performance, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, United Kingdom
- Research Department, French Rugby Union, Marcoussis, France
| | - Mathieu Lacome
- Research Department, French Rugby Union, Marcoussis, France
- * E-mail:
| | - Eamon Flanagan
- Irish Rugby Football Union, Fitness Department, Dublin, Ireland
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Fothergill M, Wolfson S, Neave N. Testosterone and cortisol responses in male soccer players: The effect of home and away venues. Physiol Behav 2017; 177:215-220. [DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2017.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2017] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Roe G, Darrall-Jones J, Till K, Phibbs P, Read D, Weakley J, Rock A, Jones B. The effect of physical contact on changes in fatigue markers following rugby union field-based training. Eur J Sport Sci 2017; 17:647-655. [PMID: 28276911 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2017.1287960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Repeated physical contact in rugby union is thought to contribute to post-match fatigue; however, no evidence exists on the effect of contact activity during field-based training on fatigue responses. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the effect of contact during training on fatigue markers in rugby union players. Twenty academy rugby union players participated in the cross-over study. The magnitude of change in upper- and lower-body neuromuscular function (NMF), whole blood creatine kinase concentration [CK] and perception of well-being was assessed pre-training (baseline), immediately and 24 h post-training following contact and non-contact, field-based training. Training load was measured using mean heart rate, session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) and microtechnology (Catapult Optimeye S5). The inclusion of contact during field-based training almost certainly increased mean heart rate (9.7; ±3.9%) and sRPE (42; ±29.2%) and resulted in likely and very likely greater decreases in upper-body NMF (-7.3; ±4.7% versus 2.7; ±5.9%) and perception of well-being (-8.0; ±4.8% versus -3.4; ±2.2%) 24 h post-training, respectively, and almost certainly greater elevations in [CK] (88.2; ±40.7% versus 3.7; ±8%). The exclusion of contact from field-based training almost certainly increased running intensity (19.8; ±5%) and distance (27.5; ±5.3%), resulting in possibly greater decreases in lower-body NMF (-5.6; ±5.2% versus 2.3; ±2.4%). Practitioners should be aware of the different demands and fatigue responses of contact and non-contact, field-based training and can use this information to appropriately schedule such training in the weekly microcycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory Roe
- a Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK.,b Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK
| | - Joshua Darrall-Jones
- a Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK.,b Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK
| | - Kevin Till
- a Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK.,b Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK
| | - Padraic Phibbs
- a Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK.,b Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK
| | - Dale Read
- a Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK.,b Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK
| | - Jonathon Weakley
- a Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK.,b Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK
| | - Andrew Rock
- c Bath Rugby Club, Farleigh House, Farleigh Hungerford , Bath , UK
| | - Ben Jones
- a Research Institute for Sport, Physical Activity and Leisure , Leeds Beckett University , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK.,b Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Club, Headingley Carnegie Stadium , Leeds , West Yorkshire , UK
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Quarrie KL, Raftery M, Blackie J, Cook CJ, Fuller CW, Gabbett TJ, Gray AJ, Gill N, Hennessy L, Kemp S, Lambert M, Nichol R, Mellalieu SD, Piscione J, Stadelmann J, Tucker R. Managing player load in professional rugby union: a review of current knowledge and practices. Br J Sports Med 2016; 51:421-427. [DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-096191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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39
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Roe GAB, Darrall-Jones JD, Till K, Jones B. Preseason changes in markers of lower body fatigue and performance in young professional rugby union players. Eur J Sport Sci 2016; 16:981-8. [DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2016.1175510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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40
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Cunningham D, Shearer DA, Drawer S, Eager R, Taylor N, Cook C, Kilduff LP. Movement Demands of Elite U20 International Rugby Union Players. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0153275. [PMID: 27055230 PMCID: PMC4824470 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0153275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to quantify movement demands of elite international age grade (U20) rugby union players during competitive tournament match play. Forty elite professional players from an U20 international performance squad were monitored using 10Hz global positioning systems (GPS) during 15 international tournament matches during the 2014/15 and 2015/16 seasons. Data on distances, velocities, accelerations, decelerations, high metabolic load (HML) distance and efforts, and number of sprints were derived. Data files from players who played over 60 min (n = 161) were separated firstly into Forwards and Backs, and more specifically into six positional groups; FR—Front Row (prop & hooker), SR—Second Row, BR—Back Row (Flankers & No.8), HB—Half Backs (scrum half & outside half), MF—Midfield (centres), B3 –Back Three (wings & full back) for match analysis. Analysis revealed significant differences between forwards and backs positions. Backs scored higher on all variables measured with the exception of number of moderate accelerations, decelerations (no difference). The centres covered the greatest total distance with the front row covering the least (6.51 ± 0.71 vs 4.97 ± 0.75 km, p < 0.001). The front row also covered the least high speed running (HSR) distance compared to the back three (211.6 ± 112.7 vs 728.4 ± 150.2 m, p < 0.001) who covered the most HSR distance, affirming that backs cover greater distances but forwards have greater contact loads. These findings highlight for the first time differences in the movement characteristics of elite age grade rugby union players specific to positional roles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Cunningham
- Applied Sport Technology Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), College of Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales
| | - David A. Shearer
- Department of Psychology, University of South Wales, Rhondda Cynon Taff, Wales
| | - Scott Drawer
- The Rugby Football Union, Greater London, England
| | - Robin Eager
- The Rugby Football Union, Greater London, England
| | - Neil Taylor
- The Rugby Football Union, Greater London, England
| | - Christian Cook
- Applied Sport Technology Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), College of Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales
| | - Liam P. Kilduff
- Applied Sport Technology Exercise and Medicine Research Centre (A-STEM), College of Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales
- * E-mail:
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Crewther BT, Heke T, Keogh J. The effects of two equal-volume training protocols upon strength, body composition and salivary hormones in male rugby union players. Biol Sport 2016; 33:111-6. [PMID: 27274103 PMCID: PMC4885621 DOI: 10.5604/20831862.1196511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Revised: 10/27/2015] [Accepted: 12/12/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study examined the effects of two equal-volume resistance-training protocols upon strength, body composition and salivary hormones in male rugby union players. Using a crossover design, 24 male rugby players completed a 4-week full-body (FB) and split-body (SB) training protocol of equal volume during the competitive season. One repetition maximum (1RM) strength, body composition via skinfold measurements and salivary testosterone (T) and cortisol (C) concentrations were assessed pre and post training. The FB and SB protocols improved upper (7.3% and 7.4%) and lower body 1RM strength (7.4% and 5.4%), whilst reducing body fat (-0.9% and -0.4%) and fat mass (-5.7% and -2.1%), respectively (all p ≤ 0.021). The SB protocol elevated T (21%) and C (50%) concentrations with a higher T/C ratio (28%) after FB training (all p ≤ 0.039). The strength changes were similar, but the body composition and hormonal results differed by protocol. Slope testing on the individual responses identified positive associations (p ≤ 0.05) between T and C concentrations and absolute 1RM strength in stronger (squat 1RM = 150.5 kg), but not weaker (squat 1RM = 117.4 kg), men. A short window of training involving FB or SB protocols can improve strength and body composition in rugby players. The similar strength gains highlight training volume as a key adaptive stimulus, although the programme structure (i.e. FB or SB) did influence the body composition and hormonal outcomes. It also appears that 1RM strength is associated with individual hormonal changes and baseline strength.
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Affiliation(s)
- B T Crewther
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Tol Heke
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, School of Sport and Recreation, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jwl Keogh
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand, School of Sport and Recreation, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand; Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, Australia; Cluster for Health Improvement, Faculty of Science, Health, Education and Engineering, University of the Sunshine Coast
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Magnesium Supplementation Diminishes Peripheral Blood Lymphocyte DNA Oxidative Damage in Athletes and Sedentary Young Man. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2016; 2016:2019643. [PMID: 27042258 PMCID: PMC4799816 DOI: 10.1155/2016/2019643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2015] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Sedentary lifestyle is highly associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. It is known that regular physical activity has positive effects on health; however several studies have shown that acute and strenuous exercise can induce oxidative stress and lead to DNA damage. As magnesium is essential in maintaining DNA integrity, the aim of this study was to determine whether four-week-long magnesium supplementation in students with sedentary lifestyle and rugby players could prevent or diminish impairment of DNA. By using the comet assay, our study demonstrated that the number of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) with basal endogenous DNA damage is significantly higher in rugby players compared to students with sedentary lifestyle. On the other hand, magnesium supplementation significantly decreased the number of cells with high DNA damage, in the presence of exogenous H2O2, in PBL from both students and rugby players, and markedly reduced the number of cells with medium DNA damage in rugby players compared to corresponding control nonsupplemented group. Accordingly, the results of our study suggest that four-week-long magnesium supplementation has marked effects in protecting the DNA from oxidative damage in both rugby players and in young men with sedentary lifestyle. Clinical trial is registered at ANZCTR Trial Id: ACTRN12615001237572.
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Norris JP, Highton J, Hughes SF, Twist C. The effects of physical contact type on the internal and external demands during a rugby league match simulation protocol. J Sports Sci 2016; 34:1859-66. [DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2016.1140907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Hayes LD, Grace FM, Baker JS, Sculthorpe N. Exercise-induced responses in salivary testosterone, cortisol, and their ratios in men: a meta-analysis. Sports Med 2016; 45:713-26. [PMID: 25655373 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-015-0306-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testosterone, cortisol and their ratios may be indicators of anabolic status, but technical issues surrounding blood sampling has limited wider application. The advent of salivary testosterone (sal-T) analysis simplified sample acquisition, resulting in a subsequent rapid increase in the number of published research articles. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to undertake a meta-analysis to determine the effect of acute exercise bouts on post exercise sal-T and salivary cortisol (sal-C) concentrations and their ratio (sal-T:C). DATA SOURCES Relevant databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct and SPORTDiscus were searched up to and including 31 December 2013 for the term 'saliva AND testosterone AND exercise'. STUDY SELECTION Studies (n = 21) selected from the 933 identified included randomised controlled trials (RCTs; n = 2), uncontrolled trials (UCTs; n = 18) and control trials (CTs; n = 1), all of which had an exercise component characterised as either aerobic, resistance or power training, each with acute sal-T and sal-C measurement obtained within 30 min of exercise bout completion. STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS METHODS A meta-analysis was conducted on change in sal-T, sal-C and the sal-T:C ratio following exercise using standard difference in means (SDM) and a random effects model. RESULTS For aerobic, resistance and power exercise, the overall SDMs for sal-T were 0.891, 1.061 and 0.509, respectively; for sal-C, the SDMs were 3.041, 0.773 and 1.200, respectively. For sal-T:C, the SDMs were -2.014, 0.027 and -0.968, respectively. RCTs, UCTs and CTs were separated by subgroup analysis. There were significant differences in overall weighted SDM values for sal-T between RCTs, UCTs and CTs within exercise modes. When examining aerobic exercise interventions, a quantitative interaction of study design was observed. RCTs resulted in a greater SDM than UCTs (1.337 vs. 0.446). Power interventions displayed a qualitative interaction with study design. UCTs where baseline measures were obtained 24 h before exercise had an SDM of -1.128, whereas UCTs where baseline was determined immediately prior to exercise had an SDM of 0.486. The single CT trial had an SDM of 2.260. Resistance exercise interventions were primarily UCTs; however, an observed influence of baseline sampling time whereby immediately pre- and 24 h pre-exercise resulted in differing SDMs. The sole resistance exercise RCTs resulted in the greatest SDM (2.500). CONCLUSION The current body of evidence regarding acute responses of sal-T to exercise is weak. This meta-analysis identifies varying exercise-dependent effect sizes. Each appear to be greatly influenced by study design and sample timing. There is a need for more RCTs and a standardised methodology for the measurement of salivary hormones in order to better determine the effect of exercise modality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence D Hayes
- School of Human Sciences, London Metropolitan University, 166-220 Holloway Road, London, N7 8DB, UK,
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Shearer DA, Kilduff LP, Finn C, Jones RM, Bracken RM, Mellalieu SD, Owen N, Crewther BT, Cook CJ. Measuring Recovery in Elite Rugby Players: The Brief Assessment of Mood, Endocrine Changes, and Power. RESEARCH QUARTERLY FOR EXERCISE AND SPORT 2015; 86:379-386. [PMID: 26288253 DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2015.1066927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE There is demand in applied sport settings to measure recovery briefly and accurately. Research indicates mood disturbance as the strongest psychological predictor of mental and physical recovery. The Brief Assessment of Mood (BAM) is a shortened version of the Profile of Mood States that can be completed in less than 30 s. The purpose of this study was to examine the BAM as a quick measure of mood in relation to recovery status in elite rugby players alongside established physiological markers of recovery. METHOD Using elite rugby union players (N = 12), this study examined the utility of BAM as an indicator of mental and physical recovery in elite athletes by exploring pattern change in mood disturbance, energy index, power output, cortisol, and testosterone 36 hr before and 12 hr, 36 hr, and 60 hr after a competitive rugby match. RESULTS Repeated-measures multivariate analysis of variance indicated significant changes in all variables across the 4 time points (p < .05, η(2) range = .20-.48), concurrent with previous study findings. Although visual inspection of the graphs indicated that the pattern of change for mood disturbance and energy index mapped changes in all physiological variables, only a low correlation was observed for power output (r = - .34). CONCLUSIONS Although BAM scores changed significantly over time in accordance with the hypotheses, further testing is required to confirm the utility of the BAM as a measure of recovery. The results indicate that the BAM could be used as 1 indicator of recovery status alongside other measures.
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Shearer DA, Jones RM, Kilduff LP, Cook CJ. Effects of competition on the sleep patterns of elite rugby union players. Eur J Sport Sci 2015; 15:681-6. [PMID: 26255667 DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2015.1053419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
No published research has assessed sleep patterns of elite rugby union players following match-play. The present study examined sleep patterns of professional rugby union players, prior and post-match-play, to assess the influence of competition. Twenty-eight male rugby union players (24.4 ± 2.9 years, 103.9 ± 12.2 kg) competed in one of four competitive home matches. Player's sleep behaviours were monitored continuously using an Actiwatch® from two days before the match, until three days post-match. Repeated measures of analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed significant differences across the time points measured for time to bed (F = 26.425, η(2) = 0.495, p < .001), get up time (F = 21.175, η(2) = 0.440, p < .001), time spent in bed (F = 10.669, η(2) = 0.283, p < .001), time asleep (F = 8.752, η(2) = 0.245, p < .001) and percentage of time moving (F = 4.602, η(2) = 0.146 p < .05). Most notable, post hocs revealed a significant increase for time in bed the night before the match (p < .01; 95% CI = 0 : 10-1 : 28 h; 9.7 ± 13.5%) compared with the reference night sleep. Furthermore, time asleep significantly decreased post-match (p < .05; 95% CI = -0:03 to -1:59 h; -19.5 ± 19.8%) compared to two nights pre-match. Across all time points, sleep latency and efficiency for most players were considered abnormal compared to that expected in normal populations. The results demonstrate that sleep that is deprived post-match may have detrimental effects on the recovery process.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Shearer
- a School of Psychology , University of South Wales , Pontypridd CF37 1DL , UK
| | - Rhys M Jones
- b Scarlets Rugby, Parc Y Scarlets , Llanelli SA14 9UZ , UK
| | - Liam P Kilduff
- c A-STEM, College of Engineering , Swansea University , Swansea SA2 8PP UK
| | - Christian J Cook
- d The School of Sport, Health and Exercise Sciences , Bangor University , Gwynedd LL57 2PZ , UK
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Peñailillo L, Maya L, Niño G, Torres H, Zbinden-Foncea H. Salivary hormones and IgA in relation to physical performance in football. J Sports Sci 2015; 33:2080-7. [PMID: 26146019 DOI: 10.1080/02640414.2015.1064151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Salivary biomarkers have shown to be useful to assess physiological stress in football, but their relationship with physical performance is unknown. The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of a football match on salivary cortisol, testosterone and immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentrations in elite footballers, and to examine the relationship of physical performance during the match to these biomarkers. Nine elite football players were assessed before, during and after a friendly international match. Physical performance during the match was measured by time-motion analysis, whilst salivary cortisol, testosterone and IgA were measured before and 10 min post-match. The results showed that players covered an average of 9463 ± 458 m during the match. Salivary cortisol did not change post-match. Testosterone and IgA concentrations decreased by 30.6% and 74.5%, respectively. The testosterone/cortisol (T/C) ratio decreased by 64.2% after the match. Changes in testosterone concentrations correlated (r = 0.85) with distance covered. Pre- and post-match testosterone levels correlated with post-match IgA concentrations (r = 0.8 and 0.89, respectively). These results suggest that a football match induces catabolic stress as indicated by the decreased T/C ratio. It seems that footballers with smaller decreases in testosterone levels covered more distance and decreased their immune function less.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Peñailillo
- a Exercise Science Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine , Universidad Finis Terrae , Santiago , Chile
| | - Luis Maya
- a Exercise Science Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine , Universidad Finis Terrae , Santiago , Chile
| | - Gonzalo Niño
- a Exercise Science Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine , Universidad Finis Terrae , Santiago , Chile
| | - Hernan Torres
- a Exercise Science Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine , Universidad Finis Terrae , Santiago , Chile
| | - Hermann Zbinden-Foncea
- a Exercise Science Laboratory, School of Kinesiology, Faculty of Medicine , Universidad Finis Terrae , Santiago , Chile
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Match play performance characteristics that predict post-match creatine kinase responses in professional rugby union players. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2014; 6:38. [PMID: 25419462 PMCID: PMC4240886 DOI: 10.1186/2052-1847-6-38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2014] [Accepted: 10/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Rugby union players can take several days to fully recover from competition. Muscle damage induced during the match has a major role in player recovery; however the specific characteristics of match play that predict post-match muscle damage remains unclear. We examined the relationships between a marker of muscle damage and performance characteristics associated with physical contacts and high-speed movement in professional rugby union players. Methods Twenty-eight professional rugby union players (15 forwards, 13 backs) participated in this study. Data were obtained from 4 European Cup games, with blood samples collected 2 h pre, and 16 and 40 h post-match, and were subsequently analysed for creatine kinase (CK). Relationships between changes in CK concentrations and number of physical contacts and high-speed running markers, derived from performance analysis and global positioning system (GPS) data, were assessed. Results Moderate and moderate-large effect-size correlations were identified between contact statistics from performance analysis and changes in CK at 16 and 40 h post-match in forwards and backs, respectively (e.g. backs; total impacts vs. ΔCK (r = 0.638, p < 0.01) and Δ% CK (r = 0.454, p < 0.05) 40 h post-match). Furthermore, moderate effect-size correlations were found between measures of high-speed running and sprinting, and changes in CK at 16 and 40 h post-match within the backs (e.g. high-speed running distance vs. ΔCK (r = 0.434, p = 0.056) and Δ% CK (r = 0.437, p = 0.054) 40 hrs post-match). Conclusions Our data demonstrate that muscle damage induced by professional rugby union match play is to some extent predicted by the number of physical contacts induced during performance. Furthermore, we show for the first time that muscle damage in backs players is predicted by high-speed running measures derived from GPS. These data increase the understanding of the causes of muscle damage in rugby union; performance markers could potentially be used to tailor individual recovery strategies and subsequent training following rugby union competition.
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