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Briscoe T, Darrall-Jones J, Heyward O, Jones B, Allen H, Ramirez-Lopez C, Scantlebury S. Validity, reliability, and the contributing physical characteristics of a modified 15m prone Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Test Level-1 test in elite female rugby league players. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0306171. [PMID: 38924067 PMCID: PMC11206932 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0306171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
This study aims to establish the validity and reliability of the prone Yo-YoIRL1 in elite female rugby league players (part one) and determine the anthropometric and physical characteristics contributing to 15m prone Yo-YoIRL1 performance (part two). Part one, 21 subjects completed one Yo-YoIRL1, one 20m and two 15m prone Yo-YoIRL1 tests over four sessions, with 7-14 days in-between. Part two, ten subjects completed a testing battery, including body mass, height, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, isometric mid-thigh pull, isometric bench-press, 10m and 20m sprints and an incremental treadmill test ([Formula: see text]). The 15m prone YoYoIRL1 demonstrated poor reliability with a typical error of 68m (21%) and a smallest worthwhile change of 54m (9%). Validity analysis found the prone versions of the YoYoIRL1 were not sensitive measures of intermittent running performance. Both prone YoYoIRL1 test distances demonstrated large mean bias (76% and -37% respectively) and typical error of the estimate (19% and 21%, respectively) in comparison to the YoYoIRL1. Body mass (r = -0.89), lean mass (r = -0.64), body fat % (r = -0.68), [Formula: see text] (l∙min-1) (r = -0.64), IMTP (r = -0.69), IBP (r = -0.15), 10m (r = -0.77) and 20m (r = -0.72) momentum displayed large negative relationships with 15m prone Yo-YoIRL1 performance. Due to the poor validity of the 20m prone YoYoIRL1, the poor validity and reliability of the 15m prone YoYoIRL1, and the anthropometric and physical characteristics which negatively impact performance, practitioners should reconsider the use of the prone YoYoIRL1 test to monitor high intensity intermittent running performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Briscoe
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sports, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Josh Darrall-Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sports, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Northern Diamonds, Headingley Stadium, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Omar Heyward
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sports, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Rugby Football Union, Twickenham, United Kingdom
| | - Ben Jones
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sports, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Premiership Rugby, London, United Kingdom
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Division of Physiological Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Hayden Allen
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sports, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Carlos Ramirez-Lopez
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sports, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Scottish Rugby Union, Murrayfield, Scotland
| | - Sean Scantlebury
- Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Carnegie School of Sports, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Yao X, Austerberry A, Bishop C, Wilson L, Chiang CY, Turner A. Seasonal Variation and Positional Differences in Anthropometry, Strength, and Power Characteristics in English Premiership Women's Rugby Union Players. J Strength Cond Res 2024; 38:924-931. [PMID: 38608041 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0000000000004736] [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: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Yao, X, Austerberry, A, Bishop, C, Wilson, L, Chiang, C-Y, and Turner, A. Seasonal variation and positional differences in anthropometry, strength, and power characteristics in English premiership women's rugby union players. J Strength Cond Res 38(5): 924-931, 2024-Women's rugby is a collision sport that relies heavily on body composition and physical characteristics of strength and power to achieve competitive success. Furthermore, the seasonal nature presents a variety of physical challenges that can cause fluctuations in a player's physical development. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the differences in anthropometry, strength, and power characteristics between forwards and backs in women's rugby union athletes in England and to identify changes throughout a season. Forty-seven players were recruited from the English premiership women's rugby during the 2020-2021 season. Players were split into forwards and backs and underwent body composition testing by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and strength and power tests (countermovement jump, drop jump [DJ], and isometric midthigh pull) on 3 separate occasions (preseason, midseason, postseason). Overall, forwards had significantly ( p < 0.01) higher body mass, fat mass, lean mass [LM], bone mineral content, and take off momentum, and backs had significantly higher ( p < 0.01, d > 0.5) jump height, reactive strength, and shorter DJ contact time. When observing seasonal changes, there were statistically significant differences ( p < 0.01) or moderate-to-large practical differences ( d > 0.5) in LM, reactive strength index modified, time to take-off, and DJ flight time [FT] among forwards when comparing 3 testing time frames. For backs, statistically significant differences ( p < 0.01) or moderate-to-large practical differences ( d > 0.5) were reported in LM and DJ FT throughout the season. In conclusion, the strength and power testing and characteristics shown in this study could support coaches and junior women's rugby athletes to have a basic understanding of English premiership physical standards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Yao
- London sport institute, faculty of science technology, Middlesex University, London, United Kingdom
- Saracens women rugby club, London, United Kingdom; and
| | | | - Chris Bishop
- London sport institute, faculty of science technology, Middlesex University, London, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Wilson
- London sport institute, faculty of science technology, Middlesex University, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Anthony Turner
- London sport institute, faculty of science technology, Middlesex University, London, United Kingdom
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Couderc A, Lacome M, Cheradame J, Carling C, Piscione J. Peak Running Demands in Elite Women's Rugby Sevens and Rugby Union Match Play: A Comparative Study. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023; 18:1004-1011. [PMID: 37527820 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0124] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In women's rugby, players regularly interchange between the rugby sevens (R7) and rugby union (RU) formats. Yet, the game demands and particularly the physical aspects respective to both formats vary and players must be able to respond accordingly. The aim of this study was to compare peak running demands in R7 and RU players. METHODS A total of 51 international women players participated. HSBC World Sevens Series (n = 19) and Six Nations Rugby Union tournament matches (n = 10) were analyzed for a total of 437 individual match observations. Global positioning systems were utilized to measure total (in meters) and high-speed (above 16 km·h-1, in meters) distance and frequency of accelerations (above 2.5 m·s-2, n) during different rolling-average periods (1-7 min) to obtain peak running activity values. Power law modeling was used to obtain slope and intercept. For all variables, peak values and the value at the 90th percentile (P90) were analyzed. RESULTS No intercept difference (P = .25; -0.12 ± 0.17) was observed between formats for total distance (161 vs 155 m·min-1). In contrast, R7 players reported a higher intercept (P = .01; -0.29 ± 0.17) for high-speed distance (66 vs 51 m·min-1), while the intercept was higher (P = .01; 0.31 ± 0.20) in RU for accelerations performed (6.1 vs 5.4 n·min-1). Regarding P90, higher values (P < .001) were observed in R7 for total and high-speed distance and accelerations. CONCLUSIONS While peak overall intensity was similar, P90 on the high-speed spectrum was higher in R7. Information on the most demanding match-play periods specific to both women's rugby formats can inform training specificity by tailoring sessions to ensure sufficient exposure to these peak demands and, consequently, aid transitioning between formats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Couderc
- Department of Research, French Rugby Federation (FFR), Marcoussis,France
| | - Mathieu Lacome
- Department of Performance and Analytics, Parma Calcio 1913 Football Club, Parma,Italy
| | - Jeremy Cheradame
- Department of Research, French Rugby Federation (FFR), Marcoussis,France
| | - Christopher Carling
- FFF Research Center, French Football Federation, Clairefontaine National Football Center, Clairefontaine-en-Yvelines,France
- Laboratory of Sport, Expertise and Performance, French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Paris,France
| | - Julien Piscione
- Department of Research, French Rugby Federation (FFR), Marcoussis,France
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Napoli L, Semple S, McKune AJ. Training and Competition Loads in Women's Rugby Sevens Athletes: Are There Implications for Cardiovascular Health? Int J Sports Physiol Perform 2023; 18:894-900. [PMID: 37491014 DOI: 10.1123/ijspp.2023-0134] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
National- and international-level rugby sevens athletes are exposed to high training and competition loads over the course of a competitive season. Research on load monitoring and body-system responses is widespread; however, the primary focus has been on optimizing performance rather than investigating or improving cardiovascular health. There is a degree of cardiovascular remodeling, as well as local and systemic inflammation, in response to excessive exercise. These responses are moderated by many factors including previous exercise exposure, current exercise intensity and duration, age, race, and gender, as well as sport-specific physiology. For these reasons, high-performing female rugby sevens athletes may have a unique cardiovascular risk profile different from males and other rugby codes. This review aimed to characterize the training and competition loads, as well as the anthropometric and physiological profiles, of female rugby sevens athletes; discuss the potential impacts these may have on the cardiovascular system; and provide recommendations on future research regarding the relationship between rugby sevens training and competition loads and cardiovascular health. Movement demands, competition formatting, and training routines could all contribute to adverse cardiovascular adaptations. Anthropometric data and physiological characteristics may also increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Future research needs to adopt measures of cardiovascular health to obtain a greater understanding of cardiovascular profiles and risk factors in female rugby sevens athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Napoli
- University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, Bruce, ACT,Australia
| | - Stuart Semple
- University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, Bruce, ACT,Australia
| | - Andrew J McKune
- University of Canberra Research Institute for Sport and Exercise, Bruce, ACT,Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Biokinetics, Exercise and Leisure Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban,South Africa
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Carson F, Scott T, Campo M, Hamlin MJ. Editorial: Performance enhancement in rugby. Front Sports Act Living 2023; 5:1212390. [PMID: 37229361 PMCID: PMC10203957 DOI: 10.3389/fspor.2023.1212390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- F. Carson
- Department of Sport and Exercise Science, LUNEX International University of Health, Exercise and Sports, Differdange, Luxembourg
| | - T. Scott
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - M. Campo
- Laboratoire de Psychologie, Dynamiques Relationnelles Et Processus Identitaires, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France
| | - M. J. Hamlin
- Department of Tourism, Sport and Society, Lincoln University, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Brown N, Williams GKR, Stodter A, McNarry MA, Roldan-Reoyo O, Mackintosh KA, Moore IS, Williams EMP. A Global Women's Rugby Union Web-Based Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20085475. [PMID: 37107757 PMCID: PMC10138678 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Rugby Union (rugby) is a full-contact team sport characterised by frequent collision events. Over one third (2.7 million) of global rugby participants are women and girls. Yet, most rugby research, laws, and regulations are derived from the men's game with limited transferability to the women's game. This includes research focused on injury and concussion management. Greater insights are urgently required to enable appropriate adaptations and support for all rugby participants. Therefore, this paper presents the protocol for a project that sought to gather insights into the understanding, experiences, and attitudes of players and coaches in women's rugby regarding key issues of concussion, injury, and training for injury prevention, as well as the implications of the menstrual cycle for training and performance. From August 2020 to November 2020, online, open, cross-sectional surveys for players and coaches were distributed globally through rugby governing bodies and women's rugby social media platforms using snowball sampling. Survey responses were recorded anonymously via a GDPR-compliant online survey platform, JISC (jisc.ac.uk, Bristol, England). Participant eligibility included being ≥18 years and either actively playing or coaching women's rugby 15s and/or sevens, or having done so in the past decade, at any level, in any country. To enhance the number and accuracy of responses, the survey was professionally translated into eight additional languages. A total of 1596 participants from 62 countries (27 ± 6 years; 7.5 ± 5.1 years of playing experience) and 296 participants from 37 countries (mean age = 36.64, SD = 9.09, mean experience = 6.53 years, SD = 3.31) completed the players' and coaches' surveys, respectively. Understanding women's participation in and experiences of rugby is important to enable lifelong engagement and enjoyment of the sport and health during and following participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Brown
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
- Welsh Institute of Performance Science, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Geneviève K. R. Williams
- Department of Public Health & Sport Sciences, Faculty of Health & Life Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4PY, UK
| | - Anna Stodter
- Research Centre for Sport Coaching, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds LS1 3HE, UK
| | - Melitta A. McNarry
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Olga Roldan-Reoyo
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Kelly A. Mackintosh
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
- Welsh Institute of Performance Science, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
| | - Isabel S. Moore
- Cardiff School of Sport & Health Sciences, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff CF5 2YB, UK
| | - Elisabeth M. P. Williams
- Applied, Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM) Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea SA1 8EN, UK
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Geldenhuys AG, Burgess T, Roche S, Hendricks S. Return to rugby following musculoskeletal injuries: A survey of views, practices and barriers among health and sport practitioners. Phys Ther Sport 2023; 59:49-59. [PMID: 36508771 DOI: 10.1016/j.ptsp.2022.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING Returning rugby players to the sport following musculoskeletal injuries is a multi-factorial and challenging process. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among health and sport practitioners involved with injured rugby players in South Africa. OBJECTIVES AND OUTCOME MEASURES The views, current practices and barriers encountered by health and sport practitioners during return to rugby were investigated using a self-developed online survey. RESULTS 64 practitioners participated in the survey including physiotherapists, orthopaedic surgeons, biokineticists and sports physicians. Return to sport (RTS) protocols were considered important, however, participants also indicated that they were slightly more likely to use anecdotal protocols compared to published protocols. Time frames, stages of healing, pain and subjective ratings along with functional outcome measures (such as range of motion, muscle function and proprioception) and sport-specific skills were rated as important and commonly utilised in different RTS phases (i.e., return to non-contact, return to contact and return to matches). The most commonly perceived barriers encountered were related to lack of access and time-constraints. CONCLUSION Return to rugby guidelines with consideration of a broad range of criteria and common barriers encountered should be developed to facilitate safe, practical and time-efficient return to rugby following musculoskeletal injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Grethe Geldenhuys
- Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Theresa Burgess
- Division of Physiotherapy, Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Centre for Medical Ethics and Law, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Stephen Roche
- Orthopaedic Research Unit, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Groote Schuur Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sharief Hendricks
- Division of Physiological Sciences, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Health through Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport (HPALS) Research Centre, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) Centre, Institute for Sport Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Duggan JD, Collins K, Keane K. Factors influencing performance and injury risk in elite female Gaelic team sport players and future research directions: a narrative review. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil 2022; 14:164. [PMID: 36056384 PMCID: PMC9438325 DOI: 10.1186/s13102-022-00553-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Background Sports science research in elite female Gaelic team sports has increased in recent years, but still a large disparity exists between the volume of studies involving male and female players. As a consequence of this, it is difficult for practitioners to develop an evidence-based approach when working with female players.
Main body In this review, we discuss the current research available in elite female Gaelic team sports with focus on seven specific areas including physical and physiological demands, anthropometric and performance characteristics, injury risk, nutritional considerations, and female physiology. There appears to be unique physical demands data in match play across positions in Camogie, however, there is currently no comparative data available in ladies Gaelic football. Similarly, there is no research available on the physiological demands of both elite female Gaelic team sports. According to existing literature, performance characteristics such as speed and power are lower in this population compared to other elite female team sports. Although data is limited, the anthropometric characteristics of elite female Gaelic team sport players appear homogenous with some positional differences observed at a sub-elite level. Previous research has demonstrated a high prevalence of lower limb injuries in female elite Gaelic team sports and the provision of quality, evidence-based strength & conditioning could help mitigate these injury risks. Female Gaelic team sport players have been shown to have poor nutrition knowledge and inadequate intakes of micronutrients. Finally, although menstrual cycle phase and oral contraceptives have been shown to influence performance in other female intermittent sports, to date there has not been any research carried out in elite female Gaelic team sport players. Conclusions It is evident that limited research has been carried out on elite female Gaelic sport players. More up-to-date, high-quality investigations are needed to address the research gaps, which in turn should enable practitioners in the field to apply sound, evidence-based practice/theory when working with this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- John David Duggan
- Department of Sport, Exercise & Nutrition, School of Science & Computing, Atlantic Technological University Galway, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland.
| | - Kieran Collins
- Gaelic Sports Research Centre, Technological University Dublin-Tallaght Campus, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Karen Keane
- Department of Sport, Exercise & Nutrition, School of Science & Computing, Atlantic Technological University Galway, Dublin Road, Galway, Ireland
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Heyward O, Emmonds S, Roe G, Scantlebury S, Stokes K, Jones B. Applied sports science and sports medicine in women’s rugby: systematic scoping review and Delphi study to establish future research priorities. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med 2022; 8:e001287. [PMID: 35979431 PMCID: PMC9310180 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsem-2021-001287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
ObjectivesIn part 1, the objective was to undertake a systematic scoping review of applied sports science and sports medicine in women’s rugby, and in part 2 to develop a consensus statement on future research priorities.DesignIn part 1, a systematic search of PubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus and SPORTDiscus (EBSCOhost) was undertaken from the earliest records to January 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020, the PRISMA extension for Scoping Reviews, and the PRISMA extension protocols were followed. In part 2, 31 international experts in women’s rugby (ie, elite players, sports scientists, medical clinicians, sports administrators) participated in a three-round Delphi consensus method. These experts reviewed the findings from part 1 and subsequently provided a list of priority research topics in women’s rugby. Research topics were grouped into expert-based themes and expert-based subthemes via content analysis. Expert-based themes and expert-based subthemes were ranked from very low to very high research priority on a 1–5 Likert scale. Consensus was defined by ≥70% agreement. The median research priority agreement and IQR were calculated for each expert-based theme and subtheme.Data sourcesPubMed (MEDLINE), Scopus and SPORTDiscus (EBSCOhost).Eligibility criteria for selecting studiesStudies were eligible for inclusion if they investigated applied sports science or sports medicine in women’s rugby.ResultsIn part 1, the systematic scoping review identified 123 studies, which were categorised into six sports science and sports medicine evidence-based themes: injury (n=48), physical performance (n=32), match characteristics (n=26), fatigue and recovery (n=6), nutrition (n=6), and psychology (n=5). In part 2, the Delphi method resulted in three expert-based themes achieving consensus on future research priority in women’s rugby: injury (5.0 (1.0)), female health (4.0 (1.0)) and physical performance (4.0 (1.0)).Summary/ConclusionThis two-part systematic scoping review and Delphi consensus is the first study to summarise the applied sports science and sports medicine evidence base in women’s rugby and establish future research priorities. The summary tables from part 1 provide valuable reference information for researchers and practitioners. The three expert-based themes that achieved consensus in part 2 (injury, female health and physical performance) provide clear direction and guidance on future research priorities in women’s rugby. The findings of this two-part study facilitate efficient and coordinated use of scientific resources towards high-priority research themes relevant to a wide range of stakeholders in women’s rugby.
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Dane K, Simms C, Hendricks S, West SW, Griffin S, Nugent FJ, Farrell G, Mockler D, Wilson F. Physical and Technical Demands and Preparatory Strategies in Female Field Collision Sports: A Scoping Review. Int J Sports Med 2022; 43:1173-1182. [PMID: 35767989 DOI: 10.1055/a-1839-6040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Women's participation in field collision sports is growing worldwide. Scoping reviews provide an overview of scientific literature in a developing area to support practitioners, policy, and research priorities. Our aim is to explore published research and synthesise information on the physical and technical demands and preparation strategies of female field collision sports. We searched four databases and identified relevant published studies. Data were extracted to form (1) a numerical analysis and (2) thematic summary. Of 2318 records identified, 43 studies met the inclusion criteria. Physical demands were the most highly investigated (n+=+24), followed by technical demands (n+= 18), tactical considerations (n+=+8) and preparatory strategies (n=1). The key themes embody a holistic model contributing to both performance and injury prevention outcomes in the context of female field collision sports. Findings suggest a gender data gap across all themes and a low evidence base to inform those preparing female athletes for match demands. Given the physical and technical differences in match-demands the review findings do not support the generalisation of male-derived training data to female athletes. To support key stakeholders working within female field collision sports there is a need to increase the visibility of female athletes in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn Dane
- Discipline of Physiotherapy, Trinity College Dublin School of Medicine, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ciaran Simms
- Trinity Centre for Bioengineering, Trinity College Dublin School of Engineering, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sharief Hendricks
- 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, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, South Africa.,Health, Physical Activity, Lifestyle and Sport Research Centre, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town Faculty of Health Sciences, Observatory, South Africa.,Carnegie Applied Rugby Research (CARR) centre, Leeds Beckett University Institute for Sport Physical Activity and Leisure, Leeds, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Stephen W West
- Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary, Canada
| | - Steffan Griffin
- Centre for Sport and Exercise, University of Edinburgh Institute for Sport Physical Education and Health Sciences, Edinburgh, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.,Medical services, Rugby Football Union, London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Frank J Nugent
- Physical Education and Sport Sciences Department, University of Limerick Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, Limerick, Ireland.,Sport and Human Performance Research Cluster, University of Limerick, Health Research Institute, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Garreth Farrell
- Department of Physiotherapy, Leinster Rugby, Dublin, Ireland
| | - David Mockler
- John Stearne Library, University of Dublin Trinity College School of Medicine John Stearne Medical Library, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Fiona Wilson
- Trinity College Dublin School of Medicine, Discipline of Physiotherapy, Dublin, Ireland
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Till K, Lloyd RS, McCormack S, Williams G, Baker J, Eisenmann JC. Optimising long-term athletic development: An investigation of practitioners' knowledge, adherence, practices and challenges. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262995. [PMID: 35077515 PMCID: PMC8789126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-term athletic development practices have been recommended for the past two decades. However, limited research exists exploring the knowledge and skills required by practitioners to optimise long-term athletic development. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, adherence, practices, and challenges of practitioners responsible for delivering long-term athletic development. A mixed methods survey was completed by 236 practitioners (e.g., sport coaches, physical education teachers) consisting of four parts; 1) demographics, 2) knowledge, 3) adherence, and 4) practices and challenges. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed by Friedman’s analysis of variance and thematic analyses, respectively. Quantitative findings showed practitioners 1) recognised their responsibility for delivering long-term athletic development, 2) have a familiarity with existing developmental models, and 3) had high adherence, focused upon health and wellbeing, to delivering long-term athletic development. However, practices associated with growth and maturity, monitoring and assessment, and the systematic progression and individualisation of training had lower adherence. Qualitative analysis indicated that practitioner’s perceived definitions of athleticism and long-term athletic development were inconsistent, especially according to the psychological components (i.e., confidence). Practitioners’ descriptions of their long-term athletic development practices identified two higher order themes; 1) goals, in which long-term athletic development “is for life” and the importance of “an individual centered journey” highlighted as sub-themes; and 2) realities of delivering long-term athletic development, whereby variety in programme delivery, monitoring development and practical challenges were noted as key priorities. Eight practical challenges were identified including governance and priorities, resources, education, early specialization, high training volumes, staff communication, parents and youth motivation. This mixed method survey highlighted a multitude of knowledge, adherence, practices and challenges towards long-term athletic development. These novel findings can help inform policy to optimise long-term athletic development and to support the complex problem of developing a healthier, fitter and more physically active youth population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Till
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club, Leeds, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Rhodri S. Lloyd
- Youth Physical Development Centre, Cardiff School of Sport, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
- Sports Performance Research Institute New Zealand (SPRINZ), AUT University, Auckland, New Zealand
- Centre for Sport Science and Human Performance, Waikato Institute of Technology, Hamilton, New Zealand
| | - Sam McCormack
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
- England Performance Unit, Rugby Football League, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Joseph Baker
- School of Kinesiology and Health Science, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joey C. Eisenmann
- Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, Leeds, United Kingdom
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Duggan JD, Moody JA, Byrne PJ, Cooper SM, Ryan L. Training Load Monitoring Considerations for Female Gaelic Team Sports: From Theory to Practice. Sports (Basel) 2021; 9:84. [PMID: 34198880 PMCID: PMC8229966 DOI: 10.3390/sports9060084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2021] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Athlete monitoring enables sports science practitioners to collect information to determine how athletes respond to training loads (TL) and the demands of competition. To date, recommendations for females are often adapted from their male counterparts. There is currently limited information available on TL monitoring in female Gaelic team sports in Ireland. The collection and analysis of female athlete monitoring data can provide valuable information to support the development of female team sports. Athletic monitoring can also support practitioners to help minimize risk of excessive TL and optimize potential athletic performance. The aims of this narrative review are to provide: (i) an overview of TL athlete monitoring in female team sports, (ii) a discussion of the potential metrics and tools used to monitor external TL and internal TL, (iii) the advantages and disadvantages of TL modalities for use in Gaelic team sports, and (iv) practical considerations on how to monitor TL to aid in the determination of meaningful change with female Gaelic team sports athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D. Duggan
- Department of Sports, Exercise & Nutrition, Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, Galway Campus, Dublin Road, H91 T8NW Galway, Ireland;
- School of Sport and Health Sciences (Sport), Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cyncoed Campus, Cardiff CF23 6XD, UK; (J.A.M.); (P.J.B.); (S.-M.C.)
| | - Jeremy A. Moody
- School of Sport and Health Sciences (Sport), Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cyncoed Campus, Cardiff CF23 6XD, UK; (J.A.M.); (P.J.B.); (S.-M.C.)
| | - Paul J. Byrne
- School of Sport and Health Sciences (Sport), Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cyncoed Campus, Cardiff CF23 6XD, UK; (J.A.M.); (P.J.B.); (S.-M.C.)
- Department of Science and Health, Institute of Technology Carlow, R93 V960 Carlow, Ireland
| | - Stephen-Mark Cooper
- School of Sport and Health Sciences (Sport), Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cyncoed Campus, Cardiff CF23 6XD, UK; (J.A.M.); (P.J.B.); (S.-M.C.)
| | - Lisa Ryan
- Department of Sports, Exercise & Nutrition, Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, Galway Campus, Dublin Road, H91 T8NW Galway, Ireland;
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