MOVEMENT VARIABILITY IN RUGBY UNION PUNT KICKING

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to look at the differences in Rugby Union punt kicking kinematics as well as the variability of movement patterns between two different skill levels. Three dimensional data (500 Hz) were collected during punt kicks for maximum velocity performed by 12 semi-professional Rugby Union players and 12 male recreational kicking sport athletes. The normalised root mean square values were used to determine intra-individual movement variability. Results showed that the semi-professional kickers had greater range of motion (ROM) at the pelvis and knee than the recreational group. The recreational group showed less movement variability than the semi-professional however, it was not significant. The higher movement variability shown by the semi-professionals combined with the greater (ROM) shows a higher level of functional movement variability.