Agility test for rugby using sidestep

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop a method to evaluate the agility of rugby players by change of direction using the sidestep while running, and clarify the characteristics of the movement. Subjects were 38 university rugby players (FW: 20, BK: 18, height: 175.2±5.4 cm, weight: 84.8 kg, age: 20.4±0.9 years old). In the agility test employed, the subject stops with both legs after a 5m sprint, and moves 1m sideways using a sidestep to change direction of movement, and then repeats the sprint and sidestep. Measurement times were reproducible (P<0.01), and there was a significant difference in the section where sidestepping took place and in the deceleration section directly before the sidestepping action between the FW and BK groups (P<0.01). Running speed of the FW group was significantly slower than that of the BK group in the sidestepping section (P<0.01). In this study, the running direction was changed by sidestepping instead of making a 180-degree turn. This method was considered useful in evaluating the agility of rugby players, including their skill to evade opponents.