The Science of Rugby

Coaches, practitioners and medical staff working in the worldwide sport of rugby will frequently apply scientific principles to their programmes to inform the practice, performance, health, well-being and development of their athletes.

This book explores the scientific principles underpinning the preparation and management of rugby players in both codes and modified versions of the sport. Applied examples are also provided throughout to understand the practical application of the material in a real-world context. This new edition of The Science of Rugby offers a significant contribution to the field of rugby science that will act as a useful resource to scientists, coaches, practitioners and students interested in rugby.

New chapters and key topics include:

• Physical and psychological preparation for rugby
• Planning and monitoring of training
• Managing fatigue, recovery and nutrition
• Effects of different environmental conditions and travel on performance
• The mechanics of rugby techniques and injury
• Young players and talent identification
• Considerations for training the female rugby player
• Modified rugby, including rugby sevens, touch, tag and wheelchair rugby

No other book bridges the gap between theory and applied practice in rugby, from grass roots to elite international standard, and therefore this is essential reading for any student, researcher, sport scientist, coach, physiotherapist or clinician with an interest in the game.

Craig Twist is Professor of Applied Sport Science whose primary research interests revolve around training and monitoring of rugby players. Craig is an accredited Sport and Exercise Scientist with the British Association of Sport and Exercise Sciences.

Paul Worsfold is Head of Biomechanics at the UK Sports Institute and Professor in Sports Biomechanics and Performance Analysis at the University of Chester, UK. His applied and research interests are primarily focused on optimising athlete movement and technology to enhance performance and reduce injury.