Profiling head accelerations using triaxial accelerometery during 'bodies in front' training play: a preliminary study of the sport of rugby league. Issue 11 (25th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Atkins, Stephen J; Bentley, Ian; Hurst, Howard T; Mark E, Mark E; Richardson, Cassandra; Sinclair, Jonathan K
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 51:Issue 11(2017)
• Page Start: A8
• Page End: A8
• Publication Date: 2017-05-25
• Subjects: Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2016-097270.19
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To provide unique descriptive information on head accelerations, both linear and rotational, during 'bodies in front' training play. Design: A convenience sample were tested using a cross-sectional design. Players wore a triaxial accelerometer (XPatch, X2 Biosystems, Seattle) during two sessions of training gameplay (session duration 142±26 min). Accelerometers were affixed on the left side of the head, at a point approximate to the external occipital protuberance. Setting: Testing was undertaken at an elite performance training centre. Participants: 20 elite, professional, rugby league players. Main outcome measures: Minimum recordable accelerations were set at 10 g (linear acceleration) and 25 rads s -2 (rotational acceleration). Results: A total of 1256 recorded 'hits' were analysed, excluding evident artefacts. No player was reported to have suffered a concussion. Player 'loading' was 46±33 hits per session (range 7–170). Average linear (14.9±8.8 g) and rotational (532±347 rads s -2 ) accelerations were not significantly different between training sessions (P>0.05). Frequency of hits are summarised in the table below. Conclusions: The majority of head accelerations occurred within lower 'sub-concussive' zones. This confirms existing research findings from other sports. Whilst few accelerations occurred in higher zones, there were a number of very high loading impacts observed in 'hit up forward' positions. Our research confirms the suitability of using portable accelerometers in determining head accelerations in full-contact, 'armourless', invasion games. Competing interests: None.