The Bath University Rugby Shuttle Test (BURST): a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Sports Science
• Exercise Physiology
• Rugby Union Performance Analysis

Background:

• Rugby union requires specific high-intensity movements.
• Assessing the physiological demands of rugby forwards is crucial for training.
• Existing tests may not fully replicate the unique demands of rugby union forwards.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel exercise protocol (BURST) for rugby union forwards.
• To evaluate the reproducibility of performance scores from the BURST.
• To analyze the physiological responses during rugby-specific movements.

Main Methods:

• Eight rugby union players performed the Bath University Rugby Shuttle Test (BURST) twice, one week apart.
• The BURST protocol involved simulated game actions like scrummaging and rucking within shuttle cycles.
• Performance tests, including agility and sprints, were conducted within the protocol.

Main Results:

• Participants covered 7078m, with 20.2% of time in high-intensity activity.
• Low coefficients of variation (CV) of 1.3% and 0.9% were found for Performance Test time and 15m sprint speed, respectively.
• CV for mean heart rate was 2.2%, while blood lactate showed a 14.4% CV.

Conclusions:

• The Bath University Rugby Shuttle Test (BURST) demonstrated good reproducibility for key performance measures.
• Measures of high-intensity exercise specific to rugby union performed during the BURST are reliable.
• The BURST protocol is a reproducible method for assessing rugby union forward performance.