title: Fluctuations in running and skill-related performance in elite rugby union match-play.
abstract: This study investigated end-game and transient changes in running activities and whether these were concomitantly associated with reductions in skill-related performance in senior international rugby union match-play. Altogether, 18 official matches were analysed (322 individual observations) using computerised video-based tracking and event coding (Amisco Pro®, SUP, Nice, France). In forwards and backs, trivial to small reductions (% difference: -2.1, ±1.3 to -10.0, ±4.0%) in total distance and that covered at high speeds (>18.0 km h-1) occurred in the second- versus the first-half while there were trivial differences in skill-related performance measures (-2.3, ±4.5 to 7.5, ±14.0%). In both positions, small to moderate declines (-42, ±10 to -21, ±7%) occurred in high-speed running in the final 10-min and 5-min periods versus mean values for all other 10-min and 5-min periods throughout the game while only small changes (-18, ±51 to 13, ±41%) in skill-related performance were observed. Trivial changes in running and skill-related performance (-11, ±74 to 7, ±39%) were observed in the 5-min period immediately following the most intense 5-minute periods of play compared to mean performance over the other 5-min periods. These findings suggest that international rugby union players were generally able to maintain skill-related performance over the course of match-play even when declines in running performance occurred.
authors: a Research Department , French Rugby Union , Marcoussis , France.
authors: Mathieu
authors: M
authors: Lacome
authors: a Research Department , French Rugby Union , Marcoussis , France.
authors: Julien
authors: J
authors: Piscione
authors: a Research Department , French Rugby Union , Marcoussis , France.
authors: Jean-Philippe
authors: JP
authors: Hager
authors: b Institute of Coaching and Performance , University of Central Lancashire , Preston , UK.
authors: Chris
authors: C
authors: Carling
mesh_terms: D056352:Athletes / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D054874:Athletic Performance / Q000502:physiology*; D015331:Cohort Studies; D003163:Competitive Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D005538:Football / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D018763:Muscle Fatigue / Q000502:physiology; D012420:Running / Q000502:physiology*
keywords: Performance; fatigue; skill; team sport