STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING AND CONCURRENT

TRAINING PRACTICES IN ELITE RUGBY UNION

Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

THOMAS W. JONES,1 ANDREW SMITH,2,3 LINDSAY S. MACNAUGHTON,4 AND DUNCAN N. FRENCH5,6

1
Department of Sports Science, ASPIRE Academy for Sports Excellence, Doha, Qatar; 2A S Strength and Conditioning Ltd,
United Kingdom; 3Nottingham Rugby Club, Nottingham, United Kingdom; 4Health and Exercise Sciences Research Group,
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom; 5Department of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation, Northumbria University,
Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom; and 6English Institute of Sport, Sportcity, Manchester, United Kingdom

ABSTRACT lished survey to date of S&C practices in northern and

Jones, TW, Smith, A, Macnaughton, LS, and French, DN. southern hemisphere RU.
Strength and Conditioning and Concurrent Training Practices KEY WORDS combined exercise, interference, physical
in Elite Rugby Union. J Strength Cond Res 30(12): 3354– preparation, programme design, questionnaire
3366, 2016—There is limited published research on strength
and conditioning (S&C) practices in elite rugby union (RU). INTRODUCTION

R
Information regarding testing batteries and programme design
ugby union (RU) is a contact team sport that is
would provide valuable information to both applied practi-
popular worldwide. Match analysis has indicated
tioners and researchers investigating the influence of training that RU is a multidirectional, intermittent, inva-
interventions or preperformance strategies. The aim of this sion game incorporating multiple high-intensity
study was to detail the current practices of S&C coaches efforts. These vary in nature and consist of sprinting, accel-
and sport scientists working in RU. A questionnaire was devel- erations, and sport-specific activities including tackling, ruck-
oped that comprised 7 sections: personal details, physical ing, mauling, and scrummaging (12,13,30,33). The physical
testing, strength and power development, concurrent training, demands of RU are specific to the individual positions (24).
flexibility development, unique aspects of the programme, and A 15-player side consists of forwards (n = 8) and backs (n =
any further relevant information regarding prescribed training 7), the forwards are further subcategorised in to; “front row,”
programmes. Forty-three (41 men, 2 women; age: 33.1 6 5.3 “second row,” and “back row” positions. Backs also are sub-
years) of 52 (83%) coaches responded to the questionnaire. categorized into “half backs,” “centers,” and “outside backs.”
The majority of practitioners worked with international level In many cases, players are allocated to certain positions
based on their anthropometric and physical performance
and/or professional RU athletes. All respondents believed
characteristics, with forwards tending to be heavier and
strength training benefits RU performance and reported that
stronger and backs tending to be leaner and faster (11).
their athletes regularly performed strength training. The clean
A growing body of research has examined the physical
and back squat were rated the most important prescribed ex- demands of competitive RU matches through performance,
ercises. Forty-one (95%) respondents reported prescribing time motion, and global position system analyses (8,9,33).
plyometric exercises and 38 (88%) indicated that periodization More recent research has examined the influence of stan-
strategies were used. Forty-two (98%) practitioners reported dardized and controlled conditioning interventions on
conducting physical testing, with body composition being the physical performance phenotypes associated with success-
most commonly tested phenotype. Thirty-three (77%) practi- ful RU performance (1,3,42). In addition, studies have
tioners indicated that the potential muted strength develop- investigated the influence of preperformance strategies
ment associated with concurrent training was considered including postactivation potentiation and hormonal prim-
when programming and 27 (63%) believed that strength ing on physical performance factors necessary for effective
before aerobic training was more favorable for strength devel- RU performance (2,18,26).
opment than vice versa. This research represents the only pub- The availability of the literature quantifying both the
physical demands of elite RU and the influence of
conditioning interventions has allowed practitioners to
Address correspondence to Thomas W. Jones, [email protected]. gain a greater understanding of the physiology of RU and
30(12)/3354–3366 potentially programme more effectively for their athletes.
Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research Despite this increased understanding, RU remains
Ó 2016 National Strength and Conditioning Association a challenging sport to support. In contrast to many
the TM

3354 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 the TM

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research | www.nsca.com

specific conditioning is prescribed and monitored in elite

RU. In addition, is it is presently unknown if the “interfer-
TABLE 1. Level of athlete respondents support.
ence effect” associated with concurrent strength and aerobic
National Proclub Senior academy University type training is (a) considered and (b) managed by practi-
tioners working with RU athletes.
24 30 11 6
Information relating to common trends in training
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

Many respondents detailed more than 1 level of prescription and management could act as a useful refer-
athlete. ence source for applied practitioners. This information
also may inform training programme design for future
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

studies seeking to examine the influence of conditioning

interventions in elite RU athletes. As such, the aim of this
study was to survey and examine training and monitoring
(particularly Olympic) sports, RU requires differing and
strategies of practitioners responsible for the S&C of RU
in some cases contrasting physical qualities for successful
athletes.
performance. Research has indicated that strength and
power (both absolute and relative to body mass) are METHODS
important physical qualities in elite RU union (1,11), in
Experimental Approach to the Problem
contrast as players can cover an average of ;7 km during
The survey titled “Strength and Conditioning Question-
a competitive match (8) athletes also require aerobic and
naire” was adapted from that used by Ebben and Blackard
fatigue resistance capabilities (33). This required contrast
(14). The questionnaire was made specific to RU and pilot
may present practitioners with problems when program-
tested on a group of 7 S&C coaches. The survey con-
ming as responses to strength and power training can be
tained 7 sections: personal details, physical testing,
muted as a result of endurance type stimulus
strength and power development, concurrent training,
(21,22,25,28). This inhibited strength development or
flexibility development, unique aspects of the pro-
“interference effect” (22) associated with concurrent
gramme, and any further relevant information regarding
strength and aerobic training also warrants consideration
prescribed training programmes. The survey was distrib-
during training phases such as preseason, in which prac-
uted to S&C coaches and sport scientists working with
titioners often have limited time to promote gains in
either professional rugby clubs/franchises/provinces or
strength and power phenotypes.
national teams in both the northern and southern hemi-
Despite the growing global profile of RU and increasing
spheres. It was hypothesized that this study would pro-
attention in the scientific literature, there is little published
vide a comprehensive view of S&C and concurrent
information available pertaining to practices and strategies
training practices in elite RU.
used by strength and conditioning (S&C) and sports science
practitioners in elite RU. Although S&C practices have been Subjects
examined in various North American and Olympic sports Before all experimental procedures, the Northumbria
(10,14–16,19,38), there are no available data detailing how University research ethics committee approved the study.
All subjects were informed of
the risks and benefits of the
investigation before signing
an approved informed con-
sent document to participate
in the study. Surveys were
sent out electronically
through e-mail and a survey
collating Web site. Data
were collected between Sep-
tember 2014 and February
2015.
Statistical Analyses
The survey contained fixed-
response and open-ended
questions. Answers to open-
ended questions were content
Figure 1. Times when physical performance phenotypes are assessed. analyzed according to meth-
ods described by Patton (31),

VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 12 | DECEMBER 2016 | 3355

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 Strength and Conditioning in Rugby Union
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

Figure 2. Physical phenotypes tested.

which have previously been used in other surveys of S&C themes were developed, deductive analysis was used to
practices in elite and professional sports (10,15,16,38). confirm that all raw data themes were represented.
Researchers had experience with qualitative methods of
sports science and S&C research. When analyzing data, RESULTS
investigators generated raw result data and higher-order Personal Details
themes through inductive content analysis and compared Forty-three (41 men, 2 women; age: 33.1 6 5.3 years) of
individually generated themes until agreement was 52 (83%) coaches responded to the questionnaire.
reached at all levels of analysis. When higher-order The respondents consisted of 21 S&C coaches, 12 head
S&C coaches, 3 senior S&C
coaches, 3 academy S&C
coaches, 2 performance man-
TABLE 2. Sets and repetitions used during in-season programmes. agers, and 2 sport scientists.
Higher-order No. Select raw data representing Forty-two practitioners re-
themes responses responses to this question ported having fellow coach-
ing and support staff.
Set range of 3–5 24 Examples of fellow coaching
Set range including .5 9 staff given by respondents
sets
Repetition range of 3–5 12 were “Assistants,” “Interns,”
Repetition range 18 and other S&C staff such as
including .5 performance mangers and
repetitions “Travelling S&C Coach” (text
Miscellaneous* 6 “Huge variance depending on the outcome” in double quotes are direct
“Neural—less than 3, cellular—to failure”
“Dependent of team and athlete experience” quotations taken from ques-
“Depends upon the individual player” tionnaires). Four practi-
“Repetition ranges vary hugely based on the tioners were based in
individual aims of the programme, training Australia, 3 in France, 4 in
history, loading scheme, etc” New Zealand, 2 in South
*Answers that could not be associated with any of the broad identified themes. Africa, 1 in Hong Kong, 1 in
Japan, 1 in Samoa, and 27
in the United Kingdom.
the TM

3356 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 the TM

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research | www.nsca.com

In addition, 2 coaches held

Post Graduate Certificates in
TABLE 3. Sets and repetitions used during off-season programmes.
Education and 2 stated they
Higher-order No. Select raw data representing were completing PhDs in
themes responses responses to this question Exercise Physiology and S&C.
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

Set range of 3–6 22 Certification

Set range including .6 6 The most commonly held
sets professional certification was
Repetition range of 3–8 12
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

Repetition range including 20 United Kingdom Strength

.8 repetitions and Conditioning Association
Miscellaneous* 2 “During the off-season, we typically use Accreditation (n = 10). Nine
higher volumes” respondents were certified
Dependent of team and athlete “experience S&C specialists with the
and aim of programme”
National Strength and Condi-
*Answers that could not be associated with any of the broad identified themes. tioning Association (USA), 5
were accredited at various lev-
els by the Australian Strength
and Conditioning Association,
Information on the types of athlete coached by the re- and 6 were British Amateur Weightlifting Association certi-
spondents is presented in Table 1. fied. Other qualifications held included “British Association
of Sport and Exercise Sciences High Performance Sport
Formal Education
Accreditation,” “International Society for the Advancement
Seventy-nine percent of respondents had an undergraduate
of Kinanthropometry Accreditation,” and “United Kingdom
degree in Sport and Exercise Science or a related subject and
Athletics Coaching Qualification.”
61% held a master’s degree in a Sport Science–related field.
Physical Testing
Forty-two of 43 respondents indicated that physical testing
was conducted on their athletes. Participants were asked
TABLE 4. Recovery time prescribed between when testing was performed (Figure 1) and what aspects of
strength training and rugby training and physical performance were tested (Figure 2). The most com-
competitive matches. monly used test of acceleration was 10-m sprint time (n =
Same 24 36 48 .48 30). Tests of agility included proagility test, “reactive agility,”
Question day h h h h Illinois agility run, T-test, 5-0-5 test, change of direction and
acceleration test, and “in depth lateral jumps.” Measures of
Time prescribed 34 9 2 2 1 anaerobic capacity included Rugby Football Union anaero-
between Olympic bic test, Welsh Rugby Union WAT test, “repeat sprint abil-
style lifting
session and high- ity,” Yo-Yo test, “Watt-Bike repeat sprints (10 3 6 seconds in
quality rugby at 30-second intervals)”, “Watt-Bike 30-second sprint,”
session “Watt-Bike 6-minutes test,” 500-m rowing, phosphate decre-
Time prescribed 31 8 4 5 0 ment test, “3 3 60-second running test,” “intermittent shuttle
between general test,” anaerobic shuttle, “lactate test on treadmill,” “Bronco
strength session
and high-quality shuttle test,” “GPS work capacity,” “Australian 30 seconds 3
rugby session 6 test,” Wingate test, “rugby anaerobic fitness test,” “150-m
Time prescribed 4 6 11 22 9 Shuttle Test,” “club-specific conditioning test,” “rugby-spe-
between Olympic cific testing,” “anaerobic training threshold zone (ATTZ)
style lifting runs,” and “6 3 30-m sprints.”
session and
competitive rugby The most commonly used measure of body composition
match was sum of 8 site skinfolds (n = 22) with 7 (n = 5) and 3 (n =
Time prescribed 1 4 11 20 14 1) site skinfolds also utilized. Other measures of body com-
between general position included body mass, height, dual-energy x-ray ab-
strength session sorptiometry, body fat%, and one respondent designed their
and a competitive
rugby match own method of assessing body composition, although no
other details were given. Twenty-three respondents stated
that the Yo-Yo incremental test was utilized as a measure
of cardiovascular (CV) endurance, other used tests of CV

VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 12 | DECEMBER 2016 | 3357

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 Strength and Conditioning in Rugby Union

test, hamstring capacity, thoracic rotation, knee to wall test,

“internally developed movement competency screen,” “range
TABLE 5. Practitioners rank order of the 5 most
important weightlifting exercises within their of motion tests,” and overhead squat. Seventeen respondents
training programme. tested indices of muscular endurance (Figure 2): these included
glute bridge, calf raise, max push ups, max sit ups, “modified
Order of test involving body weight exercises, and timed run devised
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

importance Exercises (no. coaches reporting) around facility layout,” max chins, max dips, max pull-ups,
1 Squat (30) “capacity tests on calves, glutes and hamstrings,” plank, side
Clean (9) plank, back extension, and single leg glute bridge.
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

Any single leg strength variation (1) The most commonly used test of muscular power was
2 Clean (19) maximum countermovement jump height (n = 19), 11 (26%)
Deadlift (6)
Squat (3) practitioners assessed 1–3 repetition maximum (RM) in
Pull-up and bench press (2) Olympic lifts (clean or snatch), or their variations (i.e., from
Nordics, unilateral lower body, high hang position), additionally 17 (40%) assessed reactive
pull, push press, Romanian strength index or other jump variations including broad
deadlift, snatch, hamstring jumps, drop jumps, squat jumps, “triple response jumps,”
variations, and split squat (1)
3 Bench press (7) etc. A variety of other measures of muscular power were
Olympic lift variation (5) utilized by respondents including “velocity test,” velocities
Romanian deadlift (4) of movements through “GymAware” and “Attacker” sys-
Push press, split squat, and split tems, 10- and 30-m sprints, tendon stiffness, 1RM in bench
jerk (3) press, back squat and half squat, “bench throw and pull,” and
Bench pull, squat, overhead press,
and horizontal row (2) peak power output in 6 seconds on Watt-Bike and medicine
Chin, single arm row, deadlift, ball throw. Twenty-eight practitioners utilized 1RM testing
lunge, and dumbbell press (1) to assess muscular strength with bench press (n = 22) and
4 Chin (8) back squat (n = 20) the most common lifts. Other methods
Push press, deadlift, snatch, and of assessing muscular strength included mid-thigh isometric
clean (2)
Bench press, bent over row, pulls on a force plate and “predicted RMs taken from
landmine, power jerk, jump squat, strength training performance.” All 37 respondents who
split jerk, squat, high pull, single stated that testing speed phenotypes examined sprint times
leg squat, military press, with distances ranging from 10 to 80 m, additional speed
Romanian deadlift, bench pull, tests used included “speed bounce” and GPS maximum
weighted step ups, and single
leg deadlift (1) velocity.
5 Bench press (7) Strength and Power Development
Chin (5)
Overhead press, clean, bent over The initial question in the section asked if practitioners
row, snatch, and Romanian believed that strength training benefits RU performance, all
deadlift (2) 43 respondents answered yes. Eight practitioners left
Floor hip thruster, push press, additional comments such as “stronger players are more
deadlift, high pull, dumbbell resilient,” “it helps the players develop the appropriate
incline press, bench throw, split
squat, shoulder rotation, bench physical qualities that are required to play the game,”
pull, and single arm row (1) “But a focus on quality of lifting through a full range if safe
for the athlete is critical as well as the combination of
movement skills, awareness and integration with the rest
of the rugby programme is critical to maximum carryover
into performance” and “it is a very important part of prep-
aration but in my experience it’s importance is overstated
endurance included 1,500-m run, “30-15 aerobic test,” “a 4-
by the rugby community.” All 43 respondents also stated
minute shuttle test,” 1-km run, “MAS test TUB 2,” “1-km
that strength training was regularly performed by their
repeat,” “3-min Watt-Bike test,” 2.4-km time trial, “7-minute
athletes.
test,” “modified bleep test,” “Watt-Bike 20-minute test,”
“GPS work capacity,” “incremental treadmill test,” “ATTZ In-Season Training
test,” and “1.6-km time trial.” The current section was divided into 2 subsections, the first
Functional movement screening was the most commonly of which focused on in-season strength and power training
utilized measure of flexibility (n = 8), other measures of flexi- practices. The first question in this subsection asked how
bility included “physio screening” “subjective assessments,” sit- many days of the week that in-season strength and power
and-reach test, “physical competency assessment,” Thomas training was performed; 1 practitioner reported 1 d$wk21,
the TM

3358 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 the TM

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research | www.nsca.com

number of sets and repetitions

typically used for strength train-
TABLE 6. Determination of training loads.*
ing exercises in-season. Re-
Higher-order No. Select raw data representing sponses were content analyzed
themes responses responses to this question and resulted in the creation of 5
higher-order themes including
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

RM and max 31 Percentage of 1RM. All % based from preseason

strength testing testing. % of a 1–3RM test. (a) set range of 3–5, (b) set range
Athlete lead 3 Athlete lead, occasional last set max repetitions including .5 sets, (c) repetition
of weight used to see if appropriate weight. range of 3–5, (4) repetition
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

Players determine their own weights based on range including .5 repetitions,

how they physically feel. and (5) miscellaneous. Further
Coaches subjective 3 Coaching eye, then prescribed in vital training
assessment blocks. Assessment of the required effort vs. information on higher-order
technical breakdown/quality. themes, practitioner responses,
Periodization and 3 Current needs and stage of season. and representative raw data is
phase of training Consideration given to current aims of presented in Table 2.
programme and training history.

*RM = repetition maximum. Off-Season Training

The first question in the off-
season subsection asked prac-
titioners the number of days
per week their players engage
14 reported 2 d$wk21, 35 reported 3 d$wk21, 4 reported 4 in strength training. Three practitioners reported 2 d$wk21,
d$wk21, and 1 reported 5 d$wk21. 11 reported 3 d$wk21, 25 reported 4 d$wk21, 10 reported 5
The second question within this subsection asked coaches d$wk21, and 4 reported 6 d$wk21. The following question
to detail the days of the week in which strength and power addressed the average length of an off-season strength/
training is performed in relation to next scheduled match power session; 2 respondents reported 15–30 minutes, 4 re-
day (MD); 6 practitioners reported MD-6, 31 reported MD- ported 30–45 minutes, 22 reported 45–60 minutes, 12 re-
5, 36 reported MD-4, 14 reported MD-3, 35 reported MD-2, ported 60–75 minutes, and 1 reported .75 minutes.
6 reported MD-1, and 3 reported strength and power The final question in the off-season training subsection
training was conducted on MD. The third question in this asked practitioners to indicate the number of sets and
section asked practitioners the typical duration of an in- repetitions typically used for strength training exercises
season strength and power session; 2 practitioners reported during the off-season. Content analysis resulted in the
15–30 minutes, 12 reported 30–45 minutes, 26 reported 45– creation of 5 higher-order themes including (a) set range
60 minutes, and 7 reported 60–75 minutes. The final ques- of 3–6, (b) set range including .6 sets, (c) repetition
tion in the subsection asked practitioners to indicate the range of 3–8, (d) repetition range including .8 re-
petitions, and (e) miscella-
neous. Further information
on higher-order themes,
TABLE 7. Training methods used by coaches for speed development. practitioner responses, and
representative raw data is
Higher-order No. Select raw data representing presented in Table 3.
themes responses responses to this question

Unresisted (free) 25 Actual max speed running. Sprinting on a track. Programme Design
sprinting Free sprinting. The initial question in this
Plyometrics 13 Plyos. Plyometrics. Plyometric movements. subsection asked whether
Sprint mechanics 13 Running mechanics. Technical delivery. practitioners included Olym-
and technique Technique development.
pic style weightlifting exer-
Resisted sprinting 13 Weighted sleds. Resisted accelerations. Sled and
Bungee cord work. cises in their prescribed
Improving max 9 Max strength development. Increasing strength training programme. Thirty-
strength and power through weight training. Creating eight respondents indicated
a high strength base. that Olympic style weightlift-
Olympic lifts 4 Olympic lifts. Hang cleans.
ing exercises were included in
Many respondents detailed more than 1 training method. conditioning programmes.
The next questions within
this subsection were related to

VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 12 | DECEMBER 2016 | 3359

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 Strength and Conditioning in Rugby Union

Thirty-eight (88%) respondents

indicated that periodization
strategies were used. Practi-
tioners comments in response
to this question included “To
target specific outcomes in
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

a specific period,” “Better

long-term results, prevents
stagnation,” and “Monitoring
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

and assessing load and volume

with intensity is vital, so you
need to know when to delay
and load at appropriate times
of the year.”
The final question in this
section asked practitioners
Figure 3. Times in which plyometrics are conducted. how load (weight) was deter-
mined during typical strength
training sessions. Responses
were content analyzed into 4
recovery time prescribed between (a) an Olympic weight- categories including (a) RM and max strength testing, (b)
lifting style strength session and a high-quality rugby athlete led, (c) coaches subjective assessment, and (d)
training session, (b) a general strength training session periodization and phase of training. Data pertaining to
and a high-quality rugby training session, (c) an Olympic higher-order themes, total number of practitioners whose
weightlifting style strength session and a competitive rugby responses made up the theme and selected raw data within
match, and (d) a general strength training session and higher-order themes, are presented in Table 6.
a competitive rugby match. Responses to these 4 questions
are detailed in Table 4. Practitioners were then asked the Speed Development
extent to which they agreed that strength and power train- Forty of 43 (93%) respondents who completed the survey
ing influenced rugby performance; 26 coaches indicated reported incorporating aspects of speed development in
that they strongly agreed, 14 strongly agreed, and 1 indi- their programming. Responses were content analyzed and
cated they were unsure. The next question asked coaches resulted in the creation of 6 higher-order themes: (a)
to identify and rank the top 5 weightlifting exercises that unresisted (free) sprinting, (b) plyometrics, (c) sprint
are most important in their programmes, responses to this mechanics and technique, (d) resisted sprinting, (e) improv-
question are detailed in Table 5. ing max strength, and (f ) Olympic lifting. Table 7 details the
Question 7 in this subsection asked practitioners if they aforementioned higher-order themes, the total number of
used periodization strategies to structure training plans. coaches whose responses made up the theme, and select
raw data within each higher-
order theme.

TABLE 8. Methods of integration of plyometrics into prescribed training Plyometrics

programme.
Forty-one (95%) respondents re-
No. Select raw data representing ported using plyometrics. The
Higher-order themes responses responses to this question subsequent question in this sec-
tion asked why coaches pre-
Within strength and/ 25 Within strength programme. Mainly in strength/ scribed plyometrics, 16 (37%)
or power session power sessions. With strength or Olympic
lifts. coaches reported prescribing
Dependant on 4 Individually based around the needs of the plyometrics for improving rate
individual athlete athlete. Depends on individual. of force development, 7 (16%)
Within warm-up 2 Part of warm-up. Part of field warm-ups in- for training the stretch shorten-
season. ing cycle, 4 (9%) for improving
Part of movement 1 Part of movement skills.
skills stiffness, and 2 (5%) for injury
prevention. The third question
in this subsection asked practi-
tioners which phases of the year
the TM

3360 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 the TM

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research | www.nsca.com

plyometrics are used; Figure 3

illustrates the responses to this
question.
The forth question in this
subsection examined integrated
plyometrics. Responses were
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

content analyzed and resulted

in the creation of 4 higher-order
themes; (a) within strength
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

and/or power session, (b)

dependant on Individual athlete,
(c) within warm-up and (d) part
of movement skills. Table 8 lists
the higher-order themes, num-
ber of practitioners whose re-
sponses make up the theme
Figure 4. Specific plyometric exercises prescribed.
and representative raw data
within each theme. The final
question within this subsection
asked practitioners to identify
types of plyometric exercises
regularly used in their pro-
gramme. Reponses to this ques-
tion are detailed in Figure 4.
Flexibility Development
Forty-one (95%) practitioners
indicated that some form of
flexibility training was included
in players’ physical pro-
grammes. Thirty (70%) re-
spondents indicated that static
stretching was performed, 26
(60%) reported using proprio-
ceptive neuromuscular facilita-
Figure 5. Times when athletes were encouraged or required to perform flexibility exercises. tion and 37 (86%) indicated
that dynamic stretching was
performed. Six (14%) respond-
ents reported using other meth-
ods of flexibility development
including yoga, body balance,
band distraction, and stretch
bands. The following question
asked practitioners when their
athletes performed flexibility
training, the typical duration of
flexibility sessions and the dura-
tion athletes were encouraged
to hold a static stretch. Results
from these questions are pre-
sented in Figures 5–7.
Concurrent Strength and
Endurance Training
Figure 6. Duration of a typical flexibility session prescribed by coaches. The first question in the sub-
section asked practitioners if

VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 12 | DECEMBER 2016 | 3361

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 Strength and Conditioning in Rugby Union

they considered any potential

muting effect of endurance
training on strength/hypertro-
phic development, 33 (77%)
practitioners indicated that
they did and 8 (19%) indicated
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

that they did not. Reasons for

not considering any potential
interference effect consisted of
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

“Rugby is concurrent,” “Players

must develop both motor qual-
ities,” and “If programmed cor-
rectly can balance both into
programmes.”
The following question in
this subsection asked practi-
Figure 7. Amount of time athletes are encouraged to hold a static stretch. tioners how important they
felt it was to consider any
concurrent training effect when
programming for strength/
hypertrophic development (1
= not important at all and 5 =
most important), the responses
to this question are detailed in
Figure 8. The penultimate ques-
tion asked participants to rank
the following programme varia-
bles in order of importance
when attempting to avoid any
muting effect of endurance type
stimulus on strength/hypertro-
phic development; periodiza-
tion, order of strength and
endurance training, volume of
endurance training, volume of
Figure 8. Importance of considering of concurrent training effect when programming for strength/hypertrophic strength training, and time
development (1 = not important at all, 5 = most important). between strength and endur-
ance training. Responses to this

TABLE 9. Order of importance of programme variables when attempting to avoid any muting effect of endurance
stimulus on strength/hypertrophic development (1 = most important, 5 = least important).

Order of importance, 1 = most important, 5 = least

important (no. responses)

Programme variable 1 2 3 4 5

Periodization 18 4 3 3 11
Order of strength and endurance training 11 11 9 7 1
Volume of endurance training 6 12 11 6 4
Volume of strength training 2 2 8 16 11
Time between strength and endurance training 2 10 8 7 12

the TM

3362 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 the TM

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research | www.nsca.com

themes: (a) individualization,

(b) nothing unique, (c) miscel-
TABLE 10. Unique aspects of practitioners prescribed conditioning programmes.
laneous, (d) integration, and (e)
Higher-order No. Select raw data representing responses to this periodization. Table 10 details
themes responses question these themes and the number
of practitioners’ responses that
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

Individualization 7 Individualism for every player. We provide position

and player specific programmes. Degree of make up each theme. The sec-
individuality of programming. ond question within this sec-
Nothing unique 7 Nothing is unique. Nothing unique, do the basics well. tion asked practitioners what
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

None. they would like to do differ-

Miscellaneous 7 Game day primers and hypoxic sessions. Include ently in their conditioning pro-
functional movement screening corrective exercise.
Integration 4 Combination of speed and agility work into lifting grammes. Responses were
sessions. Integrating rugby drills in reactive agility content analyzed and resulted
sessions. in the creation of 6 higher-
Periodization 3 The periodization of our season. Periodization of the order themes; (a) have more
anaerobic training threshold zone. time, (b) miscellaneous, (c)
improved facilities/equipment,
(d) greater individualization,
(e) improved monitoring, and
(f) more staff. Table 11 details
these themes and the number
TABLE 11. What practitioners would like to do differently in their conditioning of practitioners’ responses that
programmes. make up each theme.

Higher-order No. Select raw data representing DISCUSSION

themes responses responses to this question The present study sought to
Have more time 11 Have more time to train. Allow more 1 on 1 time. conduct a comprehensive sur-
Have more training time. vey of S&C and concurrent
Miscellaneous 10 Create more self-motivated and reliable athletes. training practice in elite RU.
More metabolic conditioning sessions. Better To the authors’ knowledge,
detail in the basics.
Improved 7 Greater resourcing. More equipment. Our facilities this is the first qualitative
facilities/ restrict everything. assessment of practitioners
equipment S&C practices in RU. A total
Greater 6 Individualize conditioning. Individualize with more of 43 practitioners responded
individualization detail per player. Individualize much more to the questionnaire, this is
depending on assessment.
Improved 6 Heart rate variability would be the next step. More the highest number of re-
monitoring precision in monitoring. Increased monitoring to sponses obtained in a study
be able to prescribe more accurately and monitor examining S&C provision in
change. a single sport. Previous studies
More staff 5 More staff. More staff to supervise sessions. examining S&C practices in
Many respondents detailed more than 1 thing they would like to change. North American sports have
received between 20 and 26
responses (14–16,38) and
a more recent study in British
Rowing received 32 re-
question are detailed in Table 9. The final question in this sponses (19). The response rate to our survey was high
section asked practitioners which order of strength and endur- (83%), previous comparable studies have reported return
ance training they felt was more conducive to strength and/or rates of between 69 and 87%. As such, 43 responses at
hypertrophic development, 27 (63%) practitioners believed a return rate of 83% were deemed sufficient for analysis.
that strength then endurance training was more favorable Many respondents stated that they worked with more
and 12 (28%) believed endurance then strength. than 1 level of RU athlete. The most commonly supported
level of athlete played for either a professional club, prov-
Unique Aspects of the Programme ince or franchise, and/or a national team (30 and 24 re-
The unique aspects (if any) of practitioners physical condi- sponses). Therefore, the data presented in this article are
tioning were content analyzed and divided into 5 higher-order reflective of elite RU.

VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 12 | DECEMBER 2016 | 3363

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 Strength and Conditioning in Rugby Union

Practitioners reported testing 11 aspects of physical fitness that RU performance requires high levels of contractile
(additional are details presented in Figure 2). This number is strength (29,35). Thirty-eight of the 43 practitioners (90%)
notably more than previously reported in other sports reported implementing Olympic style weightlifting exercises
including Major League Baseball (MLB) (3–4 aspects) (16), within strength and power training. This practice is similar
National Hockey League (NHL) and National Basketball to those reported in Rowing (87% of practitioners surveyed),
Association (NBA) (7–8 aspects) (15,38), and Rowing (4–5 NFL (88%), NBA (95%), and NHL (91%) (14,15,19,38).
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

aspects) (19). The 11 aspects of physical fitness tested in the These data indicate that Olympic style weightlifting exer-
present study are, however, similar to that previously re- cises are widely prescribed in team sports and rowing, this
ported in National Football League (NFL) (9–10 aspects) prescription is most likely due to the association with Olym-
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

(14). It is possible that this is reflective of the similarities pic lifting training and improvement in power output and
between RU and NFL as they are both contact, intermittent, acceleration (5,41) which have been identified as important
invasion based team sports. However, comparisons should physical qualities in RU and other sports (33,37). The squat
perhaps be interpreted with caution as Ebben and Blackard and clean were considered the most important exercise
(14) reported S&C practices in NFL in 2001 and it is very within players training programmes. The aforementioned
likely that assessment batteries in NFL have progressed and lifts were seen also as the 2 most important by practitioners
been adapted over the past ;14 years. working in Rowing, NBA, NFL, and NHL (14,15,19,38).
The most commonly tested aspect of physical fitness was Gee et al. (19) hypothesized that the clean and squat are
body composition, which was assessed by 40 of 42 (95%) of valued across a range of sports as they relate to sports-
practitioners. Similarly, body composition was commonly specific performance phenotypes such as sprint and jump
assessed by practitioners working with North American ability (23,32).
sports with 83–100% of respondents indicating body com- With regard to strength training frequency, 35 (81%)
position was assessed (14–16,38). To the authors’ knowl- practitioners reported prescribing strength training 3
edge, there are no empirical data demonstrating that d$wk21 in-season, whereas in the off-season 25 (58%), prac-
“favourable” changes in body composition (increased lean titioners reported prescribing strength training 4 d$wk21.
mass and lower levels of subcutaneous fat) result in The most common set/repetition/load scheme prescribed
improved RU performance. However, when % body fat in-season was 3–5 sets of .5 repetitions based on RM and
from separate studies are combined, a linear relationship max strength testing, this scheme differed to the most com-
between playing standard and % body fat is evident and mon prescription of 3–6 sets of .8 based on RM and max
it seems that as playing standard increases, % body fat of strength testing. This increased volume of strength training
RU athletes decreases (full summary provided by Duthie also was reflected in practitioners’ comments which included
et al. (11)). It is also reasonable to suggest that increases in “during the off-season, we typically use higher volumes.”
lean mass and reduction in % body fat may result in im- These alterations in strength training volume may reflect
provements power to body mass ratio, acceleration, and the shift of conditioners focus from maintenance (in-season)
other performance phenotypes associated with RU perfor- to development (off-season) of physical qualities and that
mance. Monitoring body composition may also be useful S&C staff tend to have more contact time with athletes out-
for assessing (any) gains in lean mass following any pre- side the competitive season (anecdotal observations and re-
scribed hypertrophy type training. Other commonly as- ports from practitioners).
sessed aspects of physical fitness were max speed, Speed development training was prescribed by 40 re-
muscular power (both 37), acceleration, and muscular spondents (93%), which is similar to that reported in NFL,
strength (both 36). It is likely this indicates the practitioners MLB, NBA (all 100%), and NHL (96%) (14–16,38). Unre-
who responded to the survey consider these physical qual- sisted or “free” sprinting was the most popular method of
ities important for RU performance. There was a notable speed development, training methods included “max speed
variance in measures of anaerobic capacity employed, with running” and “track sprinting.” The second most popular
17 different measures used across the 31 practitioners who method of speed development was plyometrics and 41
indicated that they performed anaerobic capacity testing. (95%) respondents reported implementing plyometrics
This may indicate that there is a need for future work to within their conditioning plans (for speed development or
construct a valid and standardized protocol for assessing otherwise). As with speed development, this method is sim-
anaerobic capacity in RU athletes. Overall physical testing ilar to NBA (100%), MLB (95%), and NHL (91%) (15,16,38).
was most commonly conducted pre- and in-seasons with It is somewhat surprising that the prevalence of plyometrics
41 and 38 respondents indicating that physical testing was prescribed in NFL was notably lower (73%) (14) than that in
conducted during these phases. RU given that both sports require physical qualities such as
All 43 respondents indicated that strength training was power and acceleration for successful performance (4). How-
regularly performed by their athletes; in addition, all practi- ever, as previously stated, it is likely that S&C practices in
tioners believed that strength training is beneficial for RU NFL have changed since the study of Ebben and Blackard
performance. This belief is supported by research indicating (14) was conducted.
the TM

3364 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 the TM

Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research | www.nsca.com

Thirty-eight of 43 respondents (90%) reported imple- used periodization strategies when programming. Most
menting periodization strategies in their conditioning pro- respondents consider the interference effect associated with
grammes, this practice is similar to that of coaches in concurrent strength and aerobic training and many believed
Rowing (97%), NBA (91%), NHL (90%), and MLB (83%) that it was an important factor to consider whilst pro-
(15,16,19,38). Periodization strategies have been demon- gramming. Periodization was identified as the most common
strated to result in greater improvements in strength, power programme variable to consider when attempting to avoid
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

and body composition than linear training (27,40). Periodi- any muting effect of endurance stimulus on strength/
zation has also been reported to be an effective means of hypertrophic development, whereas time between strength
avoiding any potential muting effect of aerobic type stimulus and aerobic stimuli was considered the least important. With
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

on strength and power development (17). Thirty-three re- further regard to concurrent training, most practitioners
spondents (77%) indicated that the “interference effect” asso- believed that strength before endurance training was more
ciated with concurrent strength and aerobic training was favorable for strength development than vice versa. Unre-
considered whilst programming for RU athletes. In addition, sisted/free sprinting was the most popular method of speed
20 (47%) practitioners believed that it was very important to development, and plyometrics were the second most pop-
consider when constructing conditioning plans. As previ- ular. Plyometrics were also prescribed by almost all practi-
ously stated, periodization has been reported to be an effec- tioners for the development of physical qualities such as
tive means of concurrently developing strength and aerobic speed, power, and acceleration.
physical qualities (17), as such it is perhaps unsurprising that
periodization was ranked as the most important programme PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS
variable when attempting to avoid any interference effects This study describes S&C and concurrent training practices
(Table 9). Time between strength and endurance training of practitioners supporting RU athletes in the Northern and
was considered the least important variable to consider. This Southern hemispheres. As most respondents supported
finding is somewhat surprising as research has indicated al- international and/or professional level RU athletes, practi-
lowing sufficient time ($6 hours) between strength and aer- tioners now have a source of data describing S&C practices
obic stimuli allows strength development to occur at the elite end of RU. Coaches and sports science practi-
uninhibited (17,34). In addition, elite Kayakers have been tioners who work with RU athletes at all levels of the game
reported to separate strength and aerobic training sessions may use this summary of S&C practices as a resource to
by 6–8 hours to allow full glycogen restoration (17). The inform and improve their practices. Information presented
majority of practitioners scheduled strength and Olympic in this article may also influence the design of experimental
lifting sessions (72 and 79% respectively) on the same day protocols in future studies investigating effects of condition-
as high-quality RU sessions; however, the recovery period ing interventions on physical performance phenotypes asso-
afforded between sessions was not detailed. ciated with RU performance.
Twenty-seven (63%) practitioners believed that strength
before endurance training was more conducive to strength ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
development rather than vice versa. Researchers have The authors thank all individuals who volunteered to
reported similar magnitudes of strength development when participate in the study. The results of the present study do
strength training is conducted prior endurance training and not constitute any endorsement from the National Strength
vice versa (6,20,36). However, Collins and Snow (7) reported and Conditioning Association.
maximal strength development was greater when strength
training was conducted subsequent to endurance training REFERENCES
rather than vice versa. In contrast, it has been reported that 1. Bevan, HR, Bunce, PJ, Owen, NJ, Bennett, MA, Cook, CJ,
in well-trained individuals, strength training performance is Cunningham, DJ, Newton, RU, and Kilduff, LP. Optimal loading for
the development of peak power output in professional rugby
lessened for up to 8 hours after aerobic type training (39), players. J Strength Cond Res 24: 43–47, 2010.
which over time may result in muted strength development. 2. Bevan, HR, Cunningham, DJ, Tooley, EP, Owen, NJ, Cook, CJ, and
As such, it presently remains unclear which order of concur- Kilduff, LP. Influence of postactivation potentiation on sprinting
rent strength and aerobic training is most favorable for performance in professional rugby players. J Strength Cond Res 24:
701–705, 2010.
strength development and how it should be programmed
in sports such as RU, which require both strength and aer- 3. Bevan, HR, Owen, NJ, Cunningham, DJ, Kingsley, MI, and
Kilduff, LP. Complex training in professional rugby players:
obic physical qualities. Influence of recovery time on upper-body power output. J Strength
From analysis of survey data, key research findings Cond Res 23: 1780–1785, 2009.
emerged. Physical testing was commonly conducted 4. Brechue, WF, Mayhew, JL, and Piper, FC. Characteristics of sprint
amongst practitioners with body composition, max speed, performance in college football players. J Strength Cond Res 24:
1169–1178, 2010.
muscular power, and strength and acceleration being the
5. Channell, BT and Barfield, J. Effect of Olympic and traditional
most commonly tested variables. Olympic lifting was widely resistance training on vertical jump improvement in high school
prescribed within strength training and most practitioners boys. J Strength Cond Res 22: 1522–1527, 2008.

VOLUME 30 | NUMBER 12 | DECEMBER 2016 | 3365

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.
 Strength and Conditioning in Rugby Union

6. Chtara, M, Chaouachi, A, Levin, GT, Chaouachi, M, Chamari, K, concurrent strength and endurance training. J Strength Cond Res 27:
Amri, M, and Laursen, PB. Effect of concurrent endurance and 3342–3351, 2013.
circuit resistance training sequence on muscular strength and power 26. Kilduff, LP, Bevan, HR, Kingsley, MI, Owen, NJ, Bennett, MA,
development. J Strength Cond Res 22: 1037–1045, 2008. Bunce, PJ, Hore, AM, Maw, JR, and Cunningham, DJ. Postactivation
7. Collins, MA and Snow, TK. Are adaptations to combined endurance potentiation in professional rugby players: Optimal recovery. J
and strength training affected by the sequence of training?. J Sports Strength Cond Res 21: 1134–1138, 2007.
Sci 11: 485–491, 1993. 27. Kraemer, WJ. A series of studies-the physiological basis for strength
Downloaded from http://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr by BhDMf5ePHKav1zEoum1tQfN4a+kJLhEZgbsIHo4XMi0hCyw

8. Cunniffe, B, Proctor, W, Baker, JS, and Davies, B. An evaluation of the training in American football: Fact over philosophy. J Strength Cond
physiological demands of elite rugby union using global positioning Res 11: 131–142, 1997.
system tracking software. J Strength Cond Res 23: 1195–1203, 2009. 28. Kraemer, WJ, Patton, JF, Gordon, SE, Harman, EA,
CX1AWnYQp/IlQrHD3i3D0OdRyi7TvSFl4Cf3VC1y0abggQZXdtwnfKZBYtws= on 01/04/2025

9. Deutsch, M, Kearney, G, and Rehrer, N. Time–motion analysis of Deschenes, MR, Reynolds, K, Newton, RU, Triplett, NT, and
professional rugby union players during match-play. J Sports Sci 25: Dziados, JE. Compatibility of high-intensity strength and endurance
461–472, 2007. training on hormonal and skeletal muscle adaptations. J Appl Physiol
10. Duehring, MD, Feldmann, CR, and Ebben, WP. Strength and 78: 976–989, 1995.
conditioning practices of United States high school strength and 29. Mayes, R and Nuttall, F. A comparison of the physiological
conditioning coaches. J Strength Cond Res 23: 2188–2203, 2009. characteristics of senior and under 21 elite rugby union players. J
Sports Sci 13: 13–14, 1995.
11. Duthie, G, Pyne, D, and Hooper, S. Applied physiology and game
analysis of rugby union. Sports Med 33: 973–991, 2003. 30. McLaren, SJ, Weston, M, Smith, A, Cramb, R, and Portas, MD.
Variability of physical performance and player match loads in
12. Duthie, G, Pyne, D, and Hooper, S. Time motion analysis of 2001
professional rugby union. J Sci Med Sport, 2015. DOI: 10.1016/j.
and 2002 super 12 rugby. J Sports Sci 23: 523–530, 2005.
jsams.2015.05.010.
13. Duthie, GM, Pyne, DB, Marsh, DJ, and Hooper, SL. Sprint patterns
31. Patton, MQ. Qualitative Evaluation and Research Methods. Thousand
in rugby union players during competition. J Strength Cond Res 20:
Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.; 1990.
208–214, 2006.
32. Peterson, MD, Alvar, BA, and Rhea, MR. The contribution of
14. Ebben, WP and Blackard, DO. Strength and conditioning practices
maximal force production to explosive movement among young
of National Football League strength and conditioning coaches. J
collegiate athletes. J Strength Cond Res 20: 867–873, 2006.
Strength Cond Res 15: 48–58, 2001.
33. Roberts, SP, Trewartha, G, Higgitt, RJ, El-Abd, J, and Stokes, KA.
15. Ebben, WP, Carroll, RM, and Simenz, CJ. Strength and conditioning
The physical demands of elite English rugby union. J Sports Sciences
practices of National Hockey League strength and conditioning
26: 825–833, 2008.
coaches. J Strength Cond Res 18: 889–897, 2004.
34. Robineau, J, Babault, N, Piscione, J, Lacome, M, Bigard, A-X, and
16. Ebben, WP, Hintz, MJ, and Simenz, CJ. Strength and conditioning
Robineau, J. The specific training effects of concurrent aerobic and
practices of Major League Baseball strength and conditioning
strength exercises depends on recovery duration. J Strength Cond
coaches. J Strength Cond Res 19: 538–546, 2005.
Res, 2014. DOI: 10.1519/JSC.0000000000000798.
17. Garcı́a-Pallarés, J and Izquierdo, M. Strategies to optimize
35. Robinson, PD and Mills, S. Relationship between scrummaging
concurrent training of strength and aerobic fitness for rowing and
strength and standard field tests for power in rugby. In: Presented at
canoeing. Sports Med 41: 329–343, 2011.
ISBS-Conference Proceedings Archive. Hong Kong: The Chinese
18. Gaviglio, CM, Crewther, BT, Kilduff, LP, Stokes, KA, and Cook, CJ. University of Hong Kong; 2000.
Relationship between pregame concentrations of free testosterone and
36. Schumann, M, Küüsmaa, M, Newton, RU, Sirparanta, A-I,
outcome in rugby union. Int J Sports Physiol Perform 9: 324–331, 2014.
Syväoja, H, Häkkinen, A, and Häkkinen, K. Fitness and lean mass
19. Gee, TI, Olsen, PD, Berger, NJ, Golby, J, and Thompson, KG. increases during combined training independent of loading order.
Strength and conditioning practices in rowing. J Strength Cond Res Med Sci Sports Exerc 46: 1758–1768, 2014.
25: 668–682, 2011.
37. Sheppard, JM, Cormack, S, Taylor, K-L, McGuigan, MR, and
20. Gravelle, BL and Blessing, DL. Physiological adaptation in women Newton, RU. Assessing the force-velocity characteristics of the leg
concurrently training for strength and endurance. J Strength Cond extensors in well-trained athletes: The incremental load power
Res 14: 5–13, 2000. profile. J Strength Cond Res 22: 1320–1326, 2008.
21. Häkkinen, K, Alen, M, Kraemer, W, Gorostiaga, E, Izquierdo, M, 38. Simenz, CJ, Dugan, CA, and Ebben, WP. Strength and conditioning
Rusko, H, Mikkola, J, Häkkinen, A, Valkeinen, H, and practices of National Basketball Association strength and
Kaarakainen, E. Neuromuscular adaptations during concurrent conditioning coaches. J Strength Cond Res 19: 495–504, 2005.
strength and endurance training versus strength training. Eur J 39. Sporer, BC and Wenger, HA. Effects of aerobic exercise on strength
Appl Physiol 89: 42–52, 2003. performance following various periods of recovery. J Strength Cond
22. Hickson, RC. Interference of strength development by Res 17: 638–644, 2003.
simultaneously training for strength and endurance. Eur J Appl 40. Szymanski, DJ, Szymanski, JM, Molloy, JM, and Pascoe, DD. Effect
Physiol Occup Physiol 45: 255–263, 1980. of 12 weeks of wrist and forearm training on high school baseball
23. Hori, N, Newton, RU, Andrews, WA, Kawamori, N, players. J Strength Cond Res 18: 432–440, 2004.
McGuigan, MR, and Nosaka, K. Does performance of hang power 41. Tricoli, V, Lamas, L, Carnevale, R, and Ugrinowitsch, C. Short-term
clean differentiate performance of jumping, sprinting, and changing effects on lower-body functional power development: Weightlifting
of direction?. J Strength Cond Res 22: 412–418, 2008. vs. vertical jump training programs. J Strength Cond Res 19: 433–437,
24. James, N, Mellalieu, S, and Jones, N. The development of position- 2005.
specific performance indicators in professional rugby union. J Sports 42. West, DJ, Cunningham, DJ, Bracken, RM, Bevan, HR,
Sci 23: 63–72, 2005. Crewther, BT, Cook, CJ, and Kilduff, LP. Effects of resisted sprint
25. Jones, TW, Howatson, G, Russell, M, and French, DN. Performance training on acceleration in professional rugby union players. J
and neuromuscular adaptations following differing ratios of Strength Cond Res 27: 1014–1018, 2013.

the TM

3366 Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research

Copyright © National Strength and Conditioning Association Unauthorized reproduction of this article is prohibited.