Rugby Sevens players must have the full package - endurance, fitness, speed and strength.
In collaboration with Rugby-Australia, my research at the UTS Human Performance Research Centre (HPRC) is making sure players attain these crucial attributes by analysing their physical, technical and mental performance.
My research aims to shape training programs, recovery plans and game strategy to improve performance in competition and ultimately lead to more tries on the field.
As the national rugby sevens squads prepare for the Tokyo Olympics, a big focus of mine has been on the environmental conditions we’re anticipating in Japan and how we can best prepare our teams for a competitive advantage. The Tokyo games are expected to be the hottest in modern history and strategies to prepare for the conditions are of heightened importance.
My research at the UTS HPRC has had a direct and ongoing impact on the physical preparation strategies in place for the rugby sevens athletes. This has enabled them to train more specifically for their sport while developing the general physiological adaptations required for maximal performance in hot and humid conditions.
Having access to the HPRC’s expert researchers and facilities, for example the exercise physiology lab, environmental chamber, ergometers, biomechanics lab have been invaluable in delivering real impact in the industry and translating my research into practice at the highest levels of sport.
