Christopher Curtis, Scott Mitchell and Mark Russell 2023. Match-Play Demands and Anthropometric Characteristics of National and International Women's Fifteen-a-side Rugby Union: A Systematic Scoping Review. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. 37 (10), pp. e569-e580. https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000004526
| Title | Match-Play Demands and Anthropometric Characteristics of National and International Women's Fifteen-a-side Rugby Union: A Systematic Scoping Review |
|---|---|
| Type | Journal article |
| Authors | Christopher Curtis, Scott Mitchell and Mark Russell |
| Abstract | Curtis, C, Mitchell, S, and Russell, M. Match-play demands and anthropometric characteristics of national and international women’s, fifteen-a-side rugby union: a systematic scoping review. J Strength Cond Res 37(10): e569–e580, 2023—An increased professionalization within women's 15-a-side rugby union (R15s) has prompted greater sports science support and a need to better understand demands of the sport. Online database (PubMed, MEDLINE, and SPORTDiscus) searches were performed according to the PRISMA Scoping Review protocol. Studies were eligible if match-play demands or anthropometric characteristics of women's R15s players were investigated. After calibration exercises, the lead and senior authors independently quality assessed each study. A total of 1,068 studies were identified; 15 of which met the study criteria. The mean total match-play distance covered was 5,378 ± 626 m (forwards: 5,188 ± 667 m and backs: 5,604 ± 609 m), with first half values exceeding second half (2,922 ± 87 m vs. 2,876 ± 115 m). The mean relative distance (RD) (72.0 m·min−1) was greater than their male counterparts (64.2 m·min−1–68.2 m·min−1). Backs were exposed to more severe collisions compared with forwards (6 ± 1 vs. 5 ± 4). Work:rest ratios ranged between 1.0:0.7–1.0:0.9. Regarding anthropometric characteristics, the mean lean and fat mass was reported as 51.9 ± 5.2 kg and 18.6 ± 4.6 kg, respectively. The mean body fat percentage was 24.7 ± 5.4%. The mean bone mineral density and bone mineral content was 1.27 ± 0.04 g·cm−2 and 3.07 ± 0.2 kg, respectively. This scoping review summarizes the current evidence base and key findings relating to the match-play demands and anthropometric characteristics that can be used in practice to inform player welfare and sport science support to women's R15s players at a national and international standard. Numerous gaps in our understanding of how best to develop and optimize performance, physical demands, and anthropometric characteristics of women's R15s players remain. |
| Journal | Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research |
| Journal citation | 37 (10), pp. e569-e580 |
| ISSN | 1064-8011 |
| 1533-4287 | |
| Year | 2023 |
| Publisher | National Strength and Conditioning Association |
| Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.1519/jsc.0000000000004526 |
| Publication dates | |
| Published | Oct 2023 |