Open AccessBokSmart: Safe and effective techniques in rugby union
Author(s) -
M Posthumus
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
south african journal of sports medicine
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2078-516X
pISSN - 1015-5163
DOI - 10.17159/2413-3108/2008/v20i3a633
Subject(s) - scrum , perspective (graphical) , ball (mathematics) , medicine , physical medicine and rehabilitation , forensic engineering , computer security , physical therapy , computer science , engineering , artificial intelligence , software , mathematical analysis , mathematics , software development , programming language
As with any contact sport, rugby union has a high risk of injury. The majority of injuries result from contact phases of play such as the tackle, taking the ball into contact, the scrum, the lineout and the ruck and maul. Many techniques associated with a reduced risk of injury can be taught. The need for coaches to emphasise correct technique is extremely important and one of the few possible modes to reduce injuries, particularly non-fatal catastrophic injuries to the head, neck, brain and spine. This paper provides evidence of safe techniques during the contact phases of the game (tackling, taking the ball into contact, scrum setting and engagement, lineouts as well as rucks and mauls). Examples are also given to show that safe techniques often are the most effective techniques from a performance perspective.