Training Load and Athlete Well-Being in Rugby
Author Information
Author(s): Crewther Blair T., Serpell Benjamin, Potts Neill, Kilduff Liam P., Cook Christian J.
Primary Institution: University of New England
Conclusion
Different daily training loads negatively impacted athlete well-being, affecting mood and sleep quality while increasing stress, soreness, and fatigue.
Supporting Evidence
- Daily training load was assessed 4–5 days a week.
- Significant declines in mood and sleep quality were observed at all training loads.
- Stress, soreness, and fatigue increased with higher daily training loads.
Takeaway
When rugby players train hard, they can feel tired and stressed, and it might take a few days for them to feel better again.
Methodology
The study used a longitudinal design to assess daily training load and well-being in elite male rugby players over a 3-week international series.
Potential Biases
Positional differences in rugby match demands may affect results.
Limitations
The study's findings may not apply to non-elite athletes, and data collection timing may introduce bias.
Participant Demographics
22 elite male rugby players, mean age 27.6 years, height 1.88 m, weight 102.2 kg.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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