Lower Body Power Evolution on Romanian Professional Rugby Players - Forwards

The organizatoric changes in the first Romanian rugby league induced an overall evolution of the rugby game in recent years. These changes brought with them the need for updating the tactical, technical and strength and conditioning training. Knowledge of the physical training level and adapting it to the game requirements, does surely determine a performance improvement. The purpose of this study is to highlight the evolution of the explosive strength in the last 4 years of the forwards compartment and the level of adaptation to the game requirements. The hypothesis in this study is that the explosive strength of the lower limbs in rugby forwards developed during the past 4 years, trying to keep up with the higher needs in the first Romanian league. Material and methods: The study was conducted in preseason of the 2012-2013 season and again in the preseason of 2016-2017 season. All players were part of the "CS Politehnica Ia.i" rugby team, activating in the first Romanian rugby league. Explosive power was measured using the "Just Jump System". A plyometric test mat on which the players conducted a set of 3 tests: Squat jump, Counter movement jump, Free jump The forwards improved significantly their explosive strength in a four year period. Although the total body mass got bigger, the players managed to improve their lower limbs explosive strength, this fact proving a good physical adaptation to the requirements of the rugby game.