The Specificity of Rugby Union Training Sessions in Preparation for Match Demands.

The Specificity of Rugby Union Training Sessions in Preparation for Match Demands.

Int J Sports Physiol Perform. 2017 Sep 05;:1-23

Authors: Campbell PG, Peake JM, Minett GM

Abstract
PURPOSE: Investigations into the specificity of rugby union training practices in preparation for competitive demands has predominantly focussed on physical and physiological demands. The evaluation of the contextual variance in perceptual strain or skill requirements between training and matches in rugby union is unclear, yet holistic understanding may assist to optimise training design. This study evaluated the specificity of physical, physiological, perceptual and skill demands of training sessions compared with competitive match-play in pre-professional, elite club rugby union.
METHODS: Global positioning system (GPS) devices, video capture, heart rate (HR), and session ratings of perceived exertion (sRPE) were used to assess movement patterns, skill completions, physiologic, and perceptual responses, respectively. Data were collected across a season (training sessions n=29; matches n=14). Participants (n=32) were grouped in playing positions as: outside backs, centres, halves, loose forwards, lock forwards, and front row forwards.
RESULTS: Greater total distance, low-intensity activity, maximal speed and metres per min were apparent in matches compared to training in all positions (P<0.02; d>0.90). Similarly, match HR, and sRPE responses were higher than those recorded in training (P<0.05; d>0.8). Key skill completions for forwards (i.e., scrums, rucks and lineouts) and backs (i.e., kicks) were greater under match conditions than in training (P<0.001; d>1.50).
CONCLUSION: Considerable disparities exist between the perceptual, physiological, and key skill demands of competitive matches versus training sessions in pre-professional rugby union players. Practitioners should consider the specificity of training tasks for pre-professional rugby players to ensure the best preparation for match demands.

PMID: 28872372 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

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