Video-based technical feedback and instruction improves tackling technique of community rugby union players

Abstract

<p>The aims of this study were to test the change and retention of player’s overall tackling technique and technical components following a player-specific video-based technical feedback and instruction intervention on both their dominant and non-dominant shoulders. Twenty-four (<i>n</i> = 24) rugby union players participated in a non-randomized control-intervention, which consisted of a video-based technical feedback and instruction group (video-based technical feedback) and a no video-based technical feedback and instruction group (control). During 3 sessions (baseline, intervention, retention) separated by one week, participants in each group performed six tackles (3 tackles on each shoulder) on a tackle simulator. In total, 432 tackles (video-based technical feedback = 216, control = 216) were analysed. Each tackle was analysed using a standardized list of technical criteria (arbitrary units, AU). For the dominant shoulder, tackling technique scores significantly improved from baseline to intervention for both groups. For the non-dominant shoulder, only the video-based technical feedback group improved their tackling technique from baseline to intervention (baseline 6.89 [6.33–7.45] AU vs. intervention 7.72 [7.35–8.10] AU <i>p</i> = .001, ES = 0.60 moderate). For the retention session, the video-based technical feedback group scored significantly higher than the control group, for dominant (video-based technical feedback 8.00 [7.60–8.40] AU vs. control 7.22 [6.83–7.62] AU <i>p</i> = .014, ES = 0.66 moderate) and non-dominant (video-based technical feedback 8.11 [7.81–8.41] AU vs. control 7.22 [6.90–7.55] <i>p</i> = .004, ES = 0.96 moderate) tackles. This study demonstrates the efficacy of video-based technical feedback as a method to optimize tackle training for player safety and performance.</p>