Needs Analysis

Evaluation of the Sport

A rugby centre requires high levels of aerobic endurance during matches to allow them to repeatedly produce maximal efforts, recover quickly from sprints and rucks/mauls but also to recover more effectively after matches and training sessions (Deutsch, Maw, Jenkins & Reaburn, 1998; Morton, 1978). Nicholas (1997) specifically indicated that these high intensity activities typically range from 5-15 seconds, with an incomplete recovery of 40 seconds. It is generally accepted that players must rely upon the aerobic system as motion analysis indicated that 85% of the game is spent performing low intensity activities (Deutsch, Kearney, & Rehrer, (2007). The intermittent nature of rugby implies that the oxidative (aerobic) and creatine phosphate (anaerobic) pathways are the major contributions to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) regeneration during matches; furthermore, it was also found that centres use approximately 70% of the alactic system (aerobic) and 30% of the lactic acid (anaerobic) system in a match (Bompa & Claro, 2009).

Generally, centres are described as all-rounders who need to tackle, lift, push and pull opponents as well as cover large distances on the field quickly (Gabbett, King & Jenkins, 2008; Myer & Wall, 2006). Strength, speed and power are required to perform these tasks, along with a large leg-drive and good ball handling skills (Duthie, Pyne & Hooper, 2003; Maud, 1983; Nicholas, 1997; Quarrie & Williams, 2002). Good tackling technique is also necessary coupled with intensity due to frequent contact episodes with the opposition (Quarrie, Handcock, Toomey & Walker, 1996). Rotation is important for multi-directional movements and also high abdominal endurance to protect and stabilise during contact. Ankle sprains and hamstring strains are common injuries for this athlete (Waterman, Belmonet, Cameron, Svoboda, Alitz & Owens 2011). 

Studded boots are required and a scrum-hat if desired.

Evaluation of the Athlete

This athlete has lots of experience with resistance machines and is competent with free weight exercises whilst using heavy weights and also has good technique.

Findings from the movement assessment included good basic strength, good performance with reactive tests and agility drills which incorporated good footwork and technique. However the athlete did have some poor balance mechanics on the agility drill and had issues with some of the transitions within the drill. The athlete’s training status is advanced.

The athlete is about to start the off-season, of which the primary and secondary goals are to increase hypertrophy and muscular endurance respectively. Prehabilitation exercises need to include ankle and hamstring exercises due to recurrent ankle sprains and the high probability of hamstring strains in this position (Best, McIntosh & Savage, 2005; Brooks, Fuller & Kemp, 2005; Sankey, Brooks, Kemp &  Haddad, 2008; Targett, 1998).
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