Effects of Resisted Sprint Training on Acceleration in Professional Rugby Players
The study titled "Effects of Resisted Sprint Training on Acceleration in Professional Rugby Players" from The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research investigates the impact of different sprint training methods on the acceleration abilities of professional rugby players. The study specifically compares the effects of combined weighted sled towing and traditional sprint training.
Key findings from the study include:
Participants and Methods: The study involved 20 professional rugby union players who were divided into two groups. One group underwent combined sled towing and sprint training (SLED), while the other group participated in traditional sprint training (TRAD). Both groups trained twice a week for six weeks.
Performance Improvements: Both training programs resulted in significant improvements in the participants' 10 and 30-meter sprint times. This improvement was statistically significant (p < 0.001).
Comparative Results: The performance enhancements in the SLED group were notably greater than those in the TRAD group. Specifically, the SLED group showed a greater reduction in sprint times for both 10 meters (SLED −0.04 ± 0.01 seconds vs. TRAD −0.02 ± 0.01 seconds; p < 0.001) and 30 meters (SLED −0.10 ± 0.03 seconds vs. TRAD −0.05 ± 0.03 seconds; p = 0.003).
Percentage Change: The percent change in sprint times was also more significant in the SLED group compared to the TRAD group for both 10 meters (SLED −2.43 ± 0.67% vs. TRAD −1.06 ± 0.80%; p = 0.003) and 30 meters (SLED −2.46 ± 0.63% vs. TRAD −1.15 ± 0.72%; p = 0.003).
Conclusion: The study concludes that while both sprint training alone and combined with weighted sled towing can improve short-distance sprint times, the latter method (sled towing combined with sprint training) is more effective in enhancing acceleration in professional rugby players.
