The relationship between physical qualities and contact technique in academy rugby union players

This study investigated the relationship between physical qualities and contact technique proficiency in rugby union players. Thirty-eight (n = 38) male academy players participated study. Physical measures of anthropometry, functional mobility, strength endurance, strength, power, speed, agility, anaerobic aerobic endurance were assessed. Tackler, ball-carrier, ruck assessed using video analysis a standardised two-on-two drill. Seven moderately associated with tackler technique; Push-ups (r 2 0.2; β 0.04; p 0.005; ES 0.26), Sit-ups 0.08; 0.004; 0.27), Relative 1RM Bench Press 2.32; 0.003; 0.29), Broad Jump 0.03; 0.009; 0.22), Agility −0.47; 0.019; 0.19), 40m-Speed Ball 0.1; 0.93; 0.027; 0.16) Functional Mobility 0.16; 0.007; 0.25). There was large association ball-carrier Medicine Throw 0.3; 1.13; 0.001; 0.37), moderate agility without −0.75; 0.21) −0.55; 0.015; 0.29) ball. The findings demonstrate important contribution conditioning to Contact training should be accompanied conditioning, as improvements may serve foundational components underpin technique.