The Influence of Side Dominance on Upper Body Kinematics during Rugby Passes from the Ground

This study described rugby passing technique in a group of 13 highly proficient players. Upper body kinematics (500 Hz) were assessed during six passes at a target positioned 8 m away from both dominant and non-dominant sides, with pass accuracy recorded subjectively using a 5-point scale. Passes to the preferred side were faster (P=0.02) and more accurate (P=0.001) than those to the non-preferred side. Variability analysis (NoRMS) showed greater shoulder and elbow movement variability, with greater standard deviation values at ball release for passes to the non-dominant side. Maximum shoulder flexion (lead) and adduction (trailing) velocities were moderately correlated with pass velocity (r=0.41 to r=0.48). Results suggest that despite displaying a high level of passing proficiency, participants presented with a bias when passing towards their dominant side.