The Effect of Complex Training on Physical Performance in Rugby League Players

Scott, David J.; Ditroilo, Massimiliano; Orange, Samuel T.; Marshall, Phil

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the effects of variable-resistance complex training (VRCT) versus traditional complex training (TCT) on strength, power, speed, and leg stiffness (Kleg) in rugby league players during a 6-week mesocycle. Methods: Twenty-four rugby league players competing in the British University and Colleges Sport Premier North Division were randomized to VRCT (n = 8), TCT (n = 8), or control (CON; n = 8). Experimental groups completed a 6-week lower-body complex training intervention (2×/wk) that involved alternating high-load resistance exercise with plyometric exercise within the same session. The VRCT group performed resistance exercises at 70% of 1-repetition maximum (1RM) + 0% to 23% of 1RM from band resistance with a 90-second intracontrast rest interval, whereas the TCT group performed resistance exercise at 93% of 1RM with a 4-minute intracontrast rest interval. Back-squat 1RM, countermovement jump peak power, reactive strength index, sprint times, and Kleg were assessed pretraining and post-training. Results: VRCT and TCT significantly improved 1RM back squat, countermovement jump peak power, and 5-m sprint time (all P < .05). VRCT also improved Kleg, whereas TCT improved 10- and 20-m sprint times (all P < .05). Between groups, both VRCT and TCT improved 1RM back squat compared with CON (both P < .001). Additionally, VRCT improved Kleg compared with CON (right leg: P = .016) and TCT improved 20-m sprint time compared with CON (P = .042). Conclusions: VRCT and TCT can be implemented during the competitive season to improve strength, power, and 5-m sprint time. VRCT may lead to greater improvements in reactive strength index and Kleg, whereas TCT may enhance 10- and 20-m sprint times.

Citation

Scott, D. J., Ditroilo, M., Orange, S. T., & Marshall, P. (2023). The Effect of Complex Training on Physical Performance in Rugby League Players. International Journal of Sports Physiology and Performance, 18(3), 240-247. https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2021-0565

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 5, 2022
• Online Publication Date: Jan 23, 2023
• Publication Date: Mar 1, 2023
• Deposit Date: Feb 24, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Mar 16, 2023
• Journal: International journal of sports physiology and performance
• Print ISSN: 1555-0265
• Electronic ISSN: 1555-0273
• Publisher: Human Kinetics
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 18
• Issue: 3
• Pages: 240-247
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1123/ijspp.2021-0565
• Keywords: Variable-resistance complex training; Traditional complex training; Force–velocity relationship; Strength and conditioning; Competitive season
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4224892