Physical characteristics of different professional rugby union competition levels

Peter Tierney,Catherine Blake,Eamonn Delahunt

doi:10.1016/j.jsams.2021.05.009

Peter Tierney, Catherine Blake + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsams.2021.05.009

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Abstract

ObjectivesTo evaluate whether differences in physical characteristics (running-related and collision-related metrics) exist between four different professional rugby union competition levels. DesignWe collected and retrospectively analysed microsensor technology data from players of two professional rugby union clubs that competed across four different competition levels: International rugby union, European Rugby Champions Cup, PRO14 club competition, and British and Irish Cup. MethodsDifferences between competition levels were analysed using a one-way ANOVA test. The Tukey HSD test was completed to perform multiple pairwise-comparisons between the means of the competition levels and player positional groups. ResultsTen of the 12 microsensor technology derived physical characteristics were significantly different between competition levels. Collision load-, collisions-, and high metabolic load efforts-per minute all increased at higher competition levels. These differences were also noted across player positional groups. ConclusionsThe physical characteristics of rugby union match-play differ across competitions levels. Our data suggest that professional rugby union players require specific physical preparation for different competition levels. In particular, players are likely to need specific preparation and recovery for the higher collision intensity observed at higher competition levels.

Highlights

We believe that our study is the first to compare and contrast the physical characteristics of four different professional rugby union competition levels – the novelty lies in our inclusion of both running-related and collision-related metrics
Based upon the findings of Costello et al.[14] who reported an increase in energy expenditure with the inclusion of collision activities during a five day training week, it would seem rationale to acknowledge that the increased collision intensity that we report in international rugby union (INT) competition would have substantial nutritional implications
Our data illustrate that the physical characteristics of rugby union match-play differ across competitions levels

Summary

Objectives

To evaluate whether differences in physical characteristics (running-related and collision-related metrics) exist between four different professional rugby union competition levels. Results: Ten of the 12 microsensor technology derived physical characteristics were significantly different between competition levels. Collision load-, collisions-, and high metabolic load efforts-per minute all increased at higher competition levels. These differences were noted across player positional groups. Conclusions: The physical characteristics of rugby union match-play differ across competitions levels. Our data suggest that professional rugby union players require specific physical preparation for different competition levels.

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Discussion

Conclusion