Effect of different evasion maneuvers on anticipation and visual behavior in elite rugby league players

Abstract

<p>This study examined the anticipation and visual behavior of elite rugby league players during two different evasion maneuvers (side- and split-steps). Participants (<i>N</i>=48) included elite rugby league players (<i>n</i> = 38) and controls (<i>n</i>= 10). Each participant watched videos consisting of side- and split-steps, and anticipation of movement and eye behavior were measured. No significant differences between the groups or evasion maneuvers were found. The split-step was significantly harder to predict. Elite players appeared to spend more time viewing the torso and mid-region of the body compared with the controls.</p>