Abstract
Aim
To analyse running values generated on a running track and performance indices using two 30 second friction loaded high intensity protocols.
Methods
International rugby union players, 10 backs (22.7 (1.9)
years; 177.1 (4.5) cm; 75.6 (5.6) kg) and 10 forwards (24.1 (3.5) years; 182.2 (6.8) cm; 88.6 (4.8) kg), underwent two separate friction loaded protocols (non-optimised and optimised) and five sprint running tests (30, 50, 100, 150, and 200 m).
Results
Best absolute peak power outputs were generated by the
forwards (1100 (137.3) and 1272 (170.5) W; p<0.01) for
non-optimised and optimised protocols respectively. Forwards also elicited the highest mean power (825.8 (68.8) and 848.8 (107.1) W; p<0.01). Backs were significantly faster (p<0.01) than forwards over all distances. Values recorded for power output during the tests were only moderately correlated with sprint running times.
Conclusion
Results of this study suggest that cycle ergometry optimisation protocols produced significantly greater (p<0.01) power outputs and blood lactate concentrations when compared with standard resistive forces. The findings also indicate that high intensity cycle ergometry is only a moderate predictor of running ability in rugby union players.
To analyse running values generated on a running track and performance indices using two 30 second friction loaded high intensity protocols.
Methods
International rugby union players, 10 backs (22.7 (1.9)
years; 177.1 (4.5) cm; 75.6 (5.6) kg) and 10 forwards (24.1 (3.5) years; 182.2 (6.8) cm; 88.6 (4.8) kg), underwent two separate friction loaded protocols (non-optimised and optimised) and five sprint running tests (30, 50, 100, 150, and 200 m).
Results
Best absolute peak power outputs were generated by the
forwards (1100 (137.3) and 1272 (170.5) W; p<0.01) for
non-optimised and optimised protocols respectively. Forwards also elicited the highest mean power (825.8 (68.8) and 848.8 (107.1) W; p<0.01). Backs were significantly faster (p<0.01) than forwards over all distances. Values recorded for power output during the tests were only moderately correlated with sprint running times.
Conclusion
Results of this study suggest that cycle ergometry optimisation protocols produced significantly greater (p<0.01) power outputs and blood lactate concentrations when compared with standard resistive forces. The findings also indicate that high intensity cycle ergometry is only a moderate predictor of running ability in rugby union players.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 389-389 |
| Number of pages | 1 |
| Journal | British Journal of Sports Medicine |
| Volume | 36 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - Oct 2002 |
| Externally published | Yes |