Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of match results (win-loss, score differential) on the physical performance of rugby union teams to improve training and conditioning and provide ideas for use on the playing field.
Methods: Data for one team were obtained from 45 official matches over the 2013, 2014, and 2015 seasons. Global positioning system units with built-in accelerometers were worn by the players; the per-match total distances, accelerations, and impact forces were calculated for the forwards and the backs. Match results consisted of 2 elements: the win-loss result and the score differential.
Results: Data showed that each parameter had a high value in closely fought matches when a team lost or when the point differential was small. In addition, physical performance was impacted differently from one position to another. Forwards engaged in significantly less high-acceleration and high-impact activity in wins but significantly higher activity in close matches ( p <0.05). Backs engaged in significantly higher impacts (i.e., harder/more tackles) in close matches (p <0.05).
Conclusions: Based on these data, some suggestions for new approaches that can be adopted by strength and conditioning coaches to optimize training-related performance and prevent sports injuries have been included.
