Department of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medicine

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The acute : chronic workload ratio and injury occurrence among South African PSL soccer players
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2019-07) White, Ryan Colin; Grobbelaar, Heinrich Wilhelm; De Waal, Simon Jake; Swart, Jeroen; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Science. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Purpose: Soft-tissue, non-contact injuries (STNCI) are the most prevalent injuries in professional soccer. Considerable research has focussed on injury prevention and training load (TL) monitoring, however, the multifactorial nature of injury occurrence is often neglected. As such, both internal and external TL were examined in this study with the intention of enhancing current understanding of the mechanisms behind STNCI. The acute:chronic workload ratio (ACWR) was used to model the internally and externally derived workloads, providing a dynamic representation of preparedness and subsequent injury risk. This study aimed to identify and describe the association of both internal and external workload variables and injury risk in the subsequent week using the ACWR among professional South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) players. Article one: Article one examined the association between internally-derived TL (session rating of perceived exertion [sRPE]) and injury risk in the subsequent week utilising the ACWR and 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-weekly cumulative TL. TL data was collected from 41 professional male soccer players over one and a half seasons. In total, 85 STNCIs were recorded. Only the ACWR was significantly associated (p<0.05) with injury in the subsequent week. The workload-injury relationship was sigmoidal (s-shaped) in nature. An increased injury risk in the subsequent week was found at moderate-low (0.77-0.89; OR: 1.67, 95% CI: 1.23-2.27) and high (>1.14; OR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.06-1.50) ACWR zones, while a low (<0.77; OR: 0.29, 95% CI: 0.14-0.61) ACWR zone exhibited a most likely beneficial effect compared to a moderate-high ACWR zone. Article two: Article two investigated the association between externally-derived (global positioning systems [GPS] and accelerometer-derived mechanical load indicators) and injury likelihood in the subsequent week utilising the ACWR. Total distance (TD), high intensity speed (HIS), high intensity acceleration (HIA) and high intensity deceleration (HID) data, was collected from 37 professional male soccer players over one and a half seasons. The workload-injury relationship was sigmoidal (s-shaped) and quadratic (u-shaped) in nature. Increased injury likelihood for the subsequent week was identified at high {(TD; >1.30, OR: 1.78, 95% CI: 0.72-4.38)(HIS; >1.41, OR: 1.74, 95% CI: 0.80-3.77)(HIA; >1.41, OR: 1.80, 95% CI 1.00-3.24)}, moderate-high (HID; >1.37, OR: 0.80, 95% CI 0.39- 2.76) and low (HIA; <0.77, OR: 1.29, 95% CI 1.00-1,66) ACWR zones, when compared to a moderate ACWR (~0.91 to ~1.20) zone. Conclusion: The workload-injury relationship was sigmoidal in nature and players exposed to acute de-loads and spikes in TL experienced an increased risk of subsequent injury. A moderate ACWR of between ~0.91 to ~1.20 represents the most realistic, optimal TL index to maintain or improve fitness and/or preparedness, while limiting injury likelihood. The similar sigmoidal nature of injury risk between internally and externally derived TL implies that sRPE may be a useful alternative to costly GPS systems in the world of injury prevention for soccer players - which is of significant importance in a South African context. Key words: Acute:chronic workload ratio, session rating of perceived exertion, global positioning systems, training load monitoring, team sport.
Acute kinetic and kinematic differences between minimalist sandal, shod and barefoot running in habitually shod male recreational trail runners
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2021-03) Swart, Matthew; De Waal, Simon Jake; Venter, Ranel; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Please refer to full text for abstract.
Adam Small : familiegeskiedenisse, aanlope en vroeer invloede
(Academy of Science of South Africa, 2012) Cleophas, Francois Johannes
This article answers the question: Where does the Afrikaans essayist, dramatist and poet, Adam Small, hail from? It proceeds to examine the genealogy of Small and the early influences of his family. The writer’s recent family history is traced to his direct forebears, Adam and Siela Dampies in the early 19th century, and his grandparents Adam and Nellie Dampies. The article further explores the vagaries of name changes in the instance of the Dampies/Small family, the writer’s multicultural parental background and his early years in rural and urban settings. In this respect influences on the young writer, emanating from these circumstances, are alluded to. Besides the genealogical information gained from archival research, the article relies methodologically on oral sources, informal accounts and personal recollection. It is found that the extended Small family established a relatively comfortable middle class lifestyle and they were involved at the same time in church and social relief projects. The young Adam Small grew up in a household where values such as social commitment and multi-cultural tolerance were honoured.
An adapted rehabilitation programme for a cross section of South African chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2008-03) De Klerk, Danelle Ria; Barnard, J. G.; Joubert, J. R.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
The benefits of exercise training for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are well-documented. In South Africa, exercise programmes for COPD patients are limited and often expensive and inaccessible to the broader community. The purpose of this study was to assess the responses of COPD patients to an exercise programme and to determine if the same results can be obtained through a less costly programme. In the primary programme of the study, 22 subjects were subjected to 12 weeks of exercise training. Each subject underwent comprehensive pre- and post-intervention assessments, which included the measurement of overall health status by a physician, level of dyspnoea, forced expiratory lung function, exercise capacity, body mass index and health-related quality of life. Exercise sessions included aerobic and strength training exercises and involved three, hour-long exercise sessions a week. In the modified programme, 18 subjects were randomly divided into an experimental and control group. Eleven subjects were included in the experimental group and seven subjects in the control group. Subjects had to complete 32, hour-long exercise sessions in a 10-week period. The experimental group’s exercise programme was adapted so that no specialised equipment was used, while the control group exercised in a well-equipped exercise- and rehabilitation centre.
All the king's horses and all the king's men - perhaps exercise physiologists can put SA sport together again
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2009-03) Terblanche, Elmarie
Exercise physiology is defined as the study of the function of the human body during various acute and chronic exercise conditions as well as the identification of physiological mechanisms underlying physical activity. Exercise represents one of the highest levels of stress to which the body can be exposed. The development of modern exercise physiology can be traced back to physical education, which was a strong academic field in South Africa when it was still part of the school curriculum. Exercise physiology grew out of physical education teachers who identified more with the scientific approach to athletics than teaching physical activities.
Analysis of South African rugby coaches' engagement with performance analysis
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015-12) Magwa, Zukhanye; Terblanche, E.; Kraak, Wilbur; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The analysis of sport performance has been noted as one of the key building blocks within the coaching process, whereby coaches evaluate a player’s performance, identify weak points and provide adequate feedback to correct or improve future performances (Groom et al., 2011). The introduction of performance analysis (PA) has allowed coaches to have a wider range of tools available to provide feedback. In sports such as rugby, analysis has been a key tool in monitoring the demands of a match as well as playing a part in a players’ decision making during a game (James, 2009). Traditionally, the assessment of performance was linked to a coach’s observational capacity which could be influenced by their subjective views. Furthermore, research has shown that coaches were able to remember less than 50% of key events during one half of a soccer match. Thus indicating that coaches’ capacity to observe, recall, feedback and provide an accurate analysis of key events during a performance could be limited. The primary aim of the study was to use an online survey to evaluate how performance analysis is used by rugby coaches at a sub-elite level in South Africa. The main objectives included determining how PA contributes to the coaching practice and its use amongst different levels of rugby (provincial, university, school) in South Africa. In addition, the secondary aims were to assess the extent to which PA information was integrated into coaching practice, how coaches valued the use of PA and the role of the performance analyst in the coaching process. The study followed a descriptive design where data collection was conducted using an electronic questionnaire consisting of both open-ended and closed-ended questions. A total of 46 South African rugby coaches from provincial (n = 15), university (n = 15) and school (n = 16) volunteered to take part in the study. The key themes that were investigated included: demographic information of the coach, the analysis process, feedback to the players, the implications for coaching practice, how he interacts with the players, factors that influence the coach’s selection of specific key performance indicators and the coach’s assessment of the value of PA. The coaches were provided with a glossary of terms used in PA to assist them with completing the survey. Most of the coaches (67.4%) had access to video footage after every match, while 21.7% of the coaches rarely had access to video footage. Provincial coaches (93.0%) had most readily access to video footage compared to other coaching levels (p = 0.004). The majority of coaches (80.4%) received video footage within two days after a match. Provincial coaches had the fastest delivery time, with most of these coaches receiving video footage within a day (87%). Most of the coaches carried out PA themselves (67.4%). The majority of coaches (60.9%) identified PA to inform their coaching practice all the time. This was the same at each respective level with more provincial coaches using PA to inform their coaching compared to other coaching levels (86.0% at provincial, 40.0% at university and 56.0% at school). Most of the coaches (84.8%) in the study acknowledged that the use of PA to introduce changes to their game tactics was essential and very important. Most of the coaches (63.0%) also highlighted that their coaching philosophy was the main influence on their selection of KPIs with the selection of KPIs changing from game to game, apart from most provincial coaches who’s KPIs remained consistent from game to game (47.0%). There were 47.8% of the coaches who found the service provided by the individual who conducts PA as essential, while 34.8% valued it as important. It was concluded that most coaches involved in high level coaching in South Africa valued the use of PA and used it consistently to inform their coaching practice. The coaches involved at the highest level of coaching in the study, namely provincial coaches, have the most access to PA and used it more consistently to guide their coaching practice. The findings of this study have provided insight to how and why South African rugby coaches engage with performance analysis. In particular, these findings inform specifically on how performance analysis currently impacts their coaching practice.
An analysis of tactical thinking in tennis
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2011-03) Thomas, Brendan Nigel; Bressan, E. S.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to explore the knowledge of tennis tactics of a group of South African tennis coaches. A secondary purpose was to gather their perceptions about where they believe they learned about tactics. A mixed methodology approach was used. The first was a quantitative knowledge test administered to 37 coaches. The second was a qualitative semi-structured interview with five coaches. The results of the study showed that there was a significant difference in the choices of tactical options in 43 game scenarios between the less experienced and the more experienced coaches. No differences were found between coaches who were coaching at the top level compared to the lower levels. No differences were found between coaches who had been top tennis players and those who had not. The majority of the coaches in this study reported that they had learned tactics through trial and error. Problems facing the development of top level tennis coaches in South Africa are discussed in relation to their knowledge of tactics and the priorities for the development of mass participation supported by national sport policy.
An analysis of the skills and tactics of wheelchair rugby
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2007-03) Adams, Warren Grant; Bressan, E. S.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The purpose of this study was to determine what skills and tactics distinguish local level competition from top level competition in wheelchair rugby, through the use of games analysis. Eighteen games were filmed and analysed at three different levels of competition (local club level, regional level and international level). A five-level category set was developed to generate statistics related to successful and unsuccessful performance .. Results revealed that games play at local club and regional level in South Africa were dominated by turnovers and poor ball handling skills. Wheelchair mobility also was a factor in unsuccessful play. Basic tactical play, especially on defense, was also a major cause for concern at these levels. The difference between the South African national team and three other top international teams was not the distribution of reasons for success, but rather the frequency of success rate. South Africa was successful only 45% of the time in their performance of skills while international teams were successful 77% of the time. lt was evident in this study that the standard of play in the local club and regional level in South Africa reflects on their international performance. Ball possession is frequently lost to poor passing and poor wheelchair mobility. Turnovers are more often the result of poor passing by the opponents, rather than good defense. Successful goal inbounds and side inbounds plays are too often the result of poor defense rather than good offensive play. This study demonstrates that games analysis can be a helpful tool in determining the reasons for success and lack of success during wheelchair rugby.
Analyzing gait parameters in trail runners using wireless trunk accelerometry during real-world and treadmill incline running
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-12) Bergh, Oloff Charles Wessel; Venter, Ranel; De Waal, Simon Jake; Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Few studies have explored dynamic stability when running over complex or challenging surfaces, and no studies have investigated how trail terrain could affect components of dynamic stability. The aim of this study was to measure the acute changes in dynamic stability when running at incline, between treadmill and trail surfaces. Twelve recreational trail runners (age 25.2 ±2.6 years; mass 78.8 ±5.9 kg; height 183.6 ±7.1 cm) participated and completed all aspects of testing. They ran at 10 km.h-1with an eight-degree incline, over both treadmill and trail surfaces. Each participant had a single Noraxon®myoMotion Research PRO inertial measurement unit (IMU) attached to their third lumbar vertebrae region, capable of collecting wireless acceleration data. Linear acceleration data was captured up to 200 Hz and ± 16 g at the trunk region in three-dimensions, namely the vertical (VT), anterior-posterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML). Data was streamed to the Noraxon®myo RESEARCH software. Thereafter, the data was filtered using a zero-lag 4thorder low-pass Butterworth filter with a cut-off frequency of 50 Hz. Filtered acceleration data was imported into MATLAB R2020a (Version 9.6), with a custom written code performing an autocorrelation procedure of each participant over both treadmill and trail surfaces. The autocorrelations provided information regarding the step and stride regularity, as well as the symmetry of the individual over the two terrains, based on the three-dimensional accelerations at the trunk. Furthermore, mean step and stride times, as well as their coefficients of variations (CV) were calculated from the filtered data. Results were reported in the article (Chapter Four) and indicated that step and stride regularity was decreased (p< 0.01) in all three-dimensions when running over the more complex trail surface, compared to the steady treadmill surface. The AP and ML directions indicated a greater degree of diminution compared to the VT and is evident in the symmetry values. Symmetry decreased over the trail surface for both the AP (z= -3.06, p< 0.01) and ML (p< 0.01) directions, but not in the VT (z= -1.65, p= 0.10) direction. Additionally, there was no change in mean step (p= 0.45) and stride (p= 0.33) times, but a significant increase was observed for both step CV (p< 0.01) and stride CV (p< 0.01) when running on the trail surface. The first null hypothesis was rejected, as the coefficients of variation for both step and stride times indicated a significant difference when comparing the treadmill and trail surfaces. The second null hypothesis was rejected, as the trail surface did indicate a general decrease in dynamic stability components compared to the treadmill. In conclusion the trail demonstrated a higher degree of step and stride variability, and low symmetry, primarily due to the inconsistent nature of the trail surface. Future studies could investigate the role of cognition during trail running, by examining the decision-making process while traversing complex terrain such as the trail environment. Furthermore, future studies in the field of sports biomechanics could aim to incorporate a greater degree of software technology, such as adopting a more algorithmic approach to analysing data.
Anterior cruciate ligament rupture, reconstruction, rehabilitation and recovery: The personal experiences of competitive athletes.
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2018-03) Borman, Anel; Grobbelaar, Heinrich; Derman, Wayne; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Injury is an unavoidable part of sport with inevitable physical as well as psychological consequences. Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries is one of the most prevalent injuries in sport and although considerable research has focussed on the physical recovery, the psychological effects have been neglected. Identifying the thoughts, feelings and behaviours associated with the ACL rupture, reconstruction, rehabilitation and return-to-sport could enhance our understanding of the psychological impact of the ACL recovery process. The aims of the study were to explore and analyse the personal experiences of athletes who sustained a unilateral ACL rupture and underwent ACL reconstruction (ACLR) surgery at six time intervals during the post-injury recovery period up to and including return-to-sport. Seven competitive male athletes took part in the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted immediately post-injury, preoperative, postoperative (phases 1, 2 & 3), as well as upon return-to-sport. The interviews elicited information about the personal and situational factors that influenced each athlete’s response to an ACL injury and undergoing ACLR surgery; their cognitive appraisal of the injury and recovery process; their emotional response to the injury and recovery process, as well as their behavioural response to the injury and recovery process. A total of 42 interviews were transcribed and analysed through the use of thematic analysis (TA). Six superordinate themes emerged; 1) establishing identity (athletic and personal), 2) cognitive appraisal, 3) responses (emotional and behavioural), 4) coping strategies (approach- and avoidance orientated), 5) types of social support (emotional, informational and tangible) and 6) advice/recommendations from injured research participants. The latter was specific to the return-to-sport phase. Each superordinate theme emerged as a result of a range of themes, sub-themes and categories of codes captured immediately post-injury, preoperatively, postoperatively (phases 1, 2 and 3) and upon return-to-sport. Direct quotes from participant transcripts were included to give meaning to each superordinate theme. All participants recovered physically from their injury and returned to sport within 12 months post-injury. This study reported thoughts, feelings and behaviours associated with athletes’ experiences of the rupture, ACLR surgery, rehabilitation and recovery process, as well as prior to and following return-to-sport. To the best of my knowledge, this is the first study of its kind conducted within a South African context and one of only a few studies to note the role of a biokineticist as a source of social support. This study provides guidelines and recommendations for medical professionals involved in the ACL rehabilitation process. Those involved in the rehabilitation process should be aware of the cognitions, emotions and behaviours associated with the rupture, reconstruction, rehabilitation and return-to-sport on the timeline to recovery. Focusing on athletes’ experiences of the five R’s associated with the ACL injury recovery process (i.e., Rupture, Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, Return-to-sport and Recovery) might help medical professionals, coaches, teammates, friends and family to have a better understanding of the injured athletes’ needs. Future research should aim to follow participants for up to two years post-surgery as it could take much longer for athletes to recover psychologically.
Anthropometric profile, physical fitness and cognitive functioning of elite Zimbabwean football referees
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2015-12) Banda, Morris; Grobbelaar, H. W.; Terblanche, E.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: The aim of the study was to determine the anthropometric profile, body composition, physical fitness and executive cognitive functioning (ECF) of elite male Zimbabwean football referees. A total of 41 male referees took part in the study (M age = 34.89, SD = 0.13 years). Their mean body mass was 70.52 ± 10.50kg, height: 175.72 ± 6.86cm, body mass index: 20.79 ± 2.79kg/m2, waist-hip ratio: 0.83 ± 0.04, sum of six skinfolds: 65.77 ± 24.75mm, and body fat percentage: 11.97 ± 2.60%. A significant difference (p = .04) was found between the 21 referees (177.85 ± 7.32cm) and 20 assistant referees (173.50 ± 5.69cm), with the referees being taller. Their somatotype was 2.68-4.62-2.65 classifying them as balanced mesomorphs. Their physical fitness results were as follows: modified sit and reach (28.31 ± 6.42cm), vertical jump (38.63 ± 5.63cm), one minute sit up (37.56 ± 9.46), and one minute push up (26.13 ± 6.89). Referees on the Fe´de´ration Internationale de Football Association (FIFA, n = 8) accreditation list performed significantly (p = .04) more sit ups in one minute than those on the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA, n = 33) list (36.09 ± 9.26). They recorded a best time of 5.45 ± 0.22s and a mean time of 5.62 ± 0.19s in the 6 x 40 m repeated sprint ability (RSA) test, with the FIFA referees (5.34 ± 0.25s) performing significantly better (p = .03) than the ZIFA referees (5.52 ± 0.20s). The participants (n = 38) completed the Modified Stroop task before and after a maximal effort on the change of direction ability (CODA) and Yo Yo intermittent recovery (YYIR) level one test to determine their ECF and the effect of strenuous physical activity on their ECF. Mean time to complete the CODA test was 9.60 ± 0.42s. They covered a distance of 950 ± 279m during the YYIR test, yielding a VO2max of 44.38 ± 2.35ml/min/kg-1, reaching a maximum heart rate of 189.66 ± 8.61 beats per minute or 101.26 ± 4.04% of their age predicted HRmax. Their ECF improved from pre to post-test as follows: C1 (12.73 ± 13.51%, p = .01) C2 (5.48 ± 8.20%, p = .01), C3 (9.15 ± 15.20%, p = .04), and C4 (8.42 ± 18.01%, p = .06). Significant negative correlations of moderate strength were found between the standardised physical performance score and the Modified Stroop test results for C1 pre-test (r = -0.40, p = .01), C3 pre-test (r = -0.34, p = .04), as well as for all four of the conditions at post-testing (C1: r = -0.35, p = .03; C2: r = -0.36, p = .03; C3: r = -0.32, p = .05; C4: r = -0.35, p = .03). These results indicate a significant relationship between physical fitness and ECF. This study lays the foundation for the development of scientific training programmes for elite Zimbabwean referees, as it highlighted strengths and weaknesses. The effectiveness of such programmes is subject to further investigation.
The application of sport psychology principles in the work place
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2007-03) Bruintjies, Dianthea; Potgieter, Justus R.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
Sport analogies are constantly used in business settings, perhaps due to some of the surface similarities between sport teams that strive to win competitive leagues and business teams striving to be successful in a competitive environment. The similarities between the sports and business worlds are highlighted by various authors who share “winning strategies” with managers and team leaders. However, the psychology of sports performance may be very different from the psychology of the business world. The main purpose of this investigation was to determine if the principles of sport psychology are indeed applicable to the environment of the workplace. Due to the emphasis on performance output in the corporate environment, which to a large extent is similar to the challenges encountered by elite sport persons, it is proposed that sport psychology rather than clinical psychology could be utilised as a way to assist employees to cope with the demands of the workplace. It is believed that by adopting the principles of sport psychology, employees can learn how to use mental skills, not only to enhance their performance in the work place, but also to deal with daily life stressors. The main focus of the study was to develop a mental skills programme based on sport psychology principles and to determine its effectiveness in the corporate world.
The assessment of motor competence in rugby
(Stellenbosch : University of Stellenbosch, 2005-12) Van Dyk, A. P.; Bressan, E. S.; University of Stellenbosch. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
The purpose of this study was to develop a valid test battery that could measure movement competence in rugby at U/16 level. Movement competence was adopted as the focus in this research because rugby is a sport consisting of challenges in primarily open skill situations. Competence is a level of proficiency that is higher than that of a novice, but not as high as an expert. Competence in rugby would imply that a player is reasonably successful in meeting the challenges of the dynamic situations on the field. Following a review of some different approaches to defining the abilities that seem to contribute to competence, movement competence in rugby at U/16 level was defined in terms of physical abilities, motor abilities and rugby skills. A test battery was designed to measure these variables, and then the battery was administered to the U/16 regional level group (n = 21) and the U/16 average level group (n = 108) from the same region. Anthropometry was recognised as a source of critical information in talent identification and development programmes, but because it has been well studied by other investigators, it was not included. Test validity was examined by comparing the scores between the two groups (the assumption is that the regional group should score higher on each item) and by asking the coaches to rate the tests in terms of face validity. The regional group achieved significantly better results in terms of speed, aerobic fitness, flexibility and power, in comparison with the average group. This suggests that the provincial players are more physical fit than the average high school players at U/16 level. However, the results of the motor abilities and skill items did not show a significant difference between the two groups. Although the coaches rated the test battery highly, new test items for these variables need to be considered to the next cycle in the Test of Rugby Competence.
Attitudes, behaviours and learning resources of amateur rugby union coaches and players towards the ruck event during training and match play
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2024-03 ) Brooks, Michael; Kraak, Wilbur Julio; Parmar, Nimai; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. Dept. of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medication.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Rugby union, commonly known as rugby, is a dynamic and physically demanding team sport with a rich history and a global following. It boasts over 9.2 million players and captivates the hearts of more than 344 million avid fans worldwide. One of the key elements in rugby is the ruck event, a critical phase of play where players on their feet compete for the ball while it's on the ground. This involves players from both teams making contact over the ball, trying to gain possession. Success in managing the ruck can sway the outcome of a match, enabling teams to shift momentum and exert dominance over their opponents. Hence, the ruck event emerges as an area of utmost importance for players, coaches, and referees. In this context, the attitudes, behaviours, and learning resources of amateur rugby coaches and players concerning the ruck event become pivotal factors influencing the sport's development and success. Understanding how these individuals perceive and engage with the ruck holds interest for key rugby stakeholders and carries implications for the field of rugby coaching and player development. This study investigates the attitudes, behaviours, and learning resources of amateur rugby coaches and players in South Africa, with a specific focus on the ruck event. Recognising the pivotal role of rucks in rugby, a sport marked by its physicality and strategic complexity, the study offers crucial insights into coaching methodologies, player development, and injury prevention strategies. The first aim of the study was to adapt an existing questionnaire by Hendricks et al. (2012 & 2020) that focused on the tackle event to fit the focus of the current study. The second aim was to assess the validity and reliability of the adapted questionnaire measuring the attitudes, behaviours, and learning resources of amateur rugby coaches and players towards the ruck event. The third aim was to administer the adapted questionnaire that measured the attitudes, behaviours, and learning resources of South African amateur rugby coaches and players towards the ruck event in rugby. This thesis follows a research article format with the first research article addressing the first and second aim of the study. This part of the study was pivotal, focusing on the adaptation, validation, and reliability testing of the questionnaire. This process involved an extensive literature review, discussions with rugby experts, and a rigorous validation and reliability process, including an expert panel review and test-retest of the questionnaire for reliability purposes. The questionnaire's high Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) scores, 0.88 for coaches and 0.71 for players, confirmed its reliability. Research article two addressed the third aim of the study, presenting key results and discussions. The study revealed that 75% of predominantly male coaches (99%) emphasized the importance of mastering proper ruck techniques, crucial both for winning possession (78% of coaches) and preventing injuries (81% of coaches). Coaches reported dedicating significant time to training ruck skills, with a focus on body positioning (53% of coaches) and decision-making (73% of coaches). A statistical significance in coaches’ role regarding the intensity of off-season training (p = 0.04), preference for live rucking in a 2 vs. 2 grid (p < 0.01), and a focus on footwork before the ruck (p = 0.02) was seen. Significant differences were also identified in the preferred learning choices of World Rugby Level 3 coaches compared to coaches with other qualifications (p = 0.04). World Rugby Level 3 coaches exhibited a preference for workshops, coaching clinics, interaction with other coaches, and individual demonstrations. In contrast, coaches with other qualifications (p = 0.02) leaned towards learning through media channels, including social media platforms. Coaches also placed strong emphasis on continuous learning and adapting coaching strategies, relying on one-on-one verbal instruction (83%) and digital media resources, such as the internet (74%), televised matches (69%), and sports shows (78%). Research article three addressed the third aim of the study, providing insights from players, with 78% identifying the ruck as a vital game component. Players emphasized mastering ruck techniques for a competitive edge (86% of players) and injury prevention (80% of players). A statistically significant finding found that the more experienced players exhibited a preference for 10 or more sessions (p = 0.04) in the off-season compared to the inexperienced players. Their preferred learning methods included one-on-one verbal instruction (88% of players) and self-reflection (90% of players), showing a strong inclination towards visual and experiential learning, like reviewing video footage of matches (91% of players) and participating in on-field demonstrations (98% of players). Another statistically significant finding was that the more experienced players exhibited a preference for full-contact practice matches (p = 0.05) for injury prevention and improving ruck performance to inexperienced players. The more experienced players also showed a preference for “Driving and not diving into the ruck” (p = 0.03) during training rucking technique compared to the inexperienced players. In conclusion, this study enriches rugby research, especially at the amateur level in South Africa, providing a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of the ruck event, with significant implications for coaching practices and player development. It offers invaluable perspectives for enhancing coaching methods, player performance and safety, and fostering a deeper appreciation of rugby's complexities.
Behavioural lifestyle factors, physical health-related fitness and cardiometabolic disease risk in women from a low socio-economic urban community in Stellenbosch (Western Cape)
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2020-03) Dickie, Kasha Elizabeth; Terblanche, Elmarie; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), represent an ever-rising threat to the effective management of national health in South Africa. This especially among low versus high socio-economic urban communities as evidenced almost a decade ago. The results of which are likely to lead to an even higher demand for chronic public health care provision, and thus put immediate economic strain on the imminent South African (SA) National Health Insurance fund soon to be launched in 2026. However, one could argue that the evidence needed to reformulate the existing SA health policies, especially those directed at NCD-risk management and inclusive of modifiable behavioural/lifestyle factors, is either: i) not implemented and no action is taken; or ii) implemented, yet ineffective; or iii) limited and thus unable to detect a clinically significant effect to date. Thus, the primary aim of this study was to characterise behavioural/lifestyle factors namely physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour, as well as physical health-related fitness and cardiometabolic disease risk profiles for CVD and T2DM in a group of urban women from an under-resourced Western Cape community. In addition, to determine whether physical inactivity, sedentarism and poor health-related fitness levels are important predictors of obesity and other cardiometabolic disease risk outcomes associated with CVD and T2DM. Fifty-one (N=51) apparently healthy women (42 ± 13 yrs) underwent the following measurements: physical activity (PA) and sedentary time (ST), anthropometric, cardiovascular and physical-health related fitness (cardiorespiratory fitness [CRF] and muscular strength). Results from the study showed that less than a third of the women met the World Health Organisation (WHO) Global Health Recommendations for moderate to vigorous-intensity PA (MVPA) using accelerometry. Although overweight, women who accumulated ≥ 30-min of MVPA per day presented with more favourable body composition and regional body fat measures, compared to those who did not. In addition, women who were sufficiently active presented with reduced cardiometabolic disease risk. Although the associations between PA (intensities and volume) and CRF were not statistically significant, all were positive and showed clinically important associations. Independent of steps/day, higher CRF was associated with women who were younger and with reduced measures of total and central adiposity (p < 0.001). Whereas higher physical health-related fitness as opposed to ST and MVPA, was independently associated with reduced cardiometabolic risk but potentially mediated by adiposity. In an attempt to combat cardiometabolic disease risk for CVD and T2DM among low socio-economic community urban-dwelling women, public health interventions should target domains in which time is already spent physically active. Such as walking briskly for travel- and/or occupational-related activities, while also aiming to increase public awareness of the health-enhancing benefits associated with meeting MVPA recommendations. Furthermore, intervention strategies also aimed at reducing cardiometabolic risk should target physical health-related fitness while also reducing ST especially among women who are already sarcopenic. Although the success of which will only be met once we understand the community’s specific barriers to PA and healthy dietary habits.
Die bewegingsopvoedkundige, H. Isabelle Nel : 'n histories-filosofiese studie
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 1997) Anthonissen, I. (Ilse); Steyn, J. C.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Department of Sport Science.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die bydrae van H. Isabelle Nel tot die vakterrein Menslike Bewegingskunde (MBK) aan die Universiteit van Stellenbosch (US) met spesifieke verwysing na haar akademiese bydrae en die bydrae wat sy as leier in die professie gelewer het (1950-1985), is ondersoek. Die studie is vanuit 'n histories-filosofiese perspektief benader om die wetenskapsonderbou, soos sy dit gesien het, te dokumenteer. Inligting is ingesamel deur van primere en sekondere geskrewe bronne (verslae, notules, artikels, korrespondensie) gebruik te maak, aangevul deur onderhoude en oop-gestruktureerde vraelyste. Die inligting is hermeneuties gemterpreteer. Nel se biografiese besonderhede is verskaf. Perspektiewe oor vakontwikkeling is vanuit haar denkontwikkeling gedoen. Beleidsaspekte wat sy aangespreek bet, is die aard en die omvang van die studieterrein, konsepvorming onderliggend aan die vakbenaming en die implikasies vir tersiere opleiding. Nel begrond die sinergie van praktyk en teorie in haar konsep van bewegingsopvoeding. In haar doktorale studie, vorm kinesiologie die uitgangspunt wat die verband tussen liggaamlike opvoedkunde en ergonomie aantoon. Met haar benadering tot die bewegingsarea, opvoedkundige dans, het sy hierdie teoretiese aspekte toegepas en pionierswerk gedoen in die totstandkoming van 'n unieke benadering, gebaseer op 'n teoreties-gefundeerde rasionaal. In 197 5 is rekreasie op haar inisiatief as 'n praktiese kursus ingestel. Behoeftes van die gemeenskap en die gebrek aan nie-kompeterende sportsoorte, is hierdeur aangespreek. Nel se denkontwikkeling is weerspieel in die kursus-ontwikkeling wat by die US tot stand gekom het. Die teoretiese onderbou vir skool liggaamlike opvoeding is verryk met haar navorsing oor neuromuskulereontwikkeling, wat die grondslag van die nasionale kemsillabus (1972) vir liggaamlike opvoeding vir meisies gevorm het. Sy is mede-outeur van enkele publikasies en skryf verskeie artikels. Met die fokus op beplanning, reflekteer sy die geheelbeeld van die studieterrein in haar teoretiese raamwerk vir kurrikulering. Nel was instrumenteel in die vestiging van erkenning vir die professie. Haar rol in die stigting (1952) van die Vroue-Afdeling van die Suid-Afrikaanse Vereniging vir Sport, Liggaamlike Opvoedkunde en Rekreasie (SA VSLOR) is gedokumenteer. Sy is vereer met meriete toekennings van die Vereniging (1986, 1988) en die Staatspresident (1981) vir uitmuntende dliens gelewer en haar vir rol in die erkenning van die vrou en meisie in die professie. As Vise-President (vanaf 1965) van die Jnternatonal Association of Sport and Physical Education for Girls and Women (IAPESGW), versterk sy binne- en buitelandse kontak. Haar toewyding is bekroon met die toekenning van die 8ste IAPESGW-kongres in Kaapstad (1977), en by die 1997-kongres in Finland word sy vereer met die toekenning van erelidmaatskap. Haar volgehoue lidmaatskap van ICHPER (International Council of Health, Physical Education and Recreation) en ICSSPE (International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education), ten spyte van politieke druk, verseker dat buitelandse kundigheid in Suid-Afrika beskikbaar gestel kon word. H. Isabelle Nel het as bewegingsopvoedkundige op akademiese en professionele gebied met begaafde visie "Die oop gesprek" binne die studieterrein van Menslike Bewegingskunde en die onderafdelings verseker.
Body composition and functional fitness capacity of young academy soccer players in South Africa and Zimbabwe
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2013-12) Masocha, Vincent; Terblanche, Elmarie; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Talent identification and early selection into a professional soccer academy has been reported to be very important for the long term development of footballing expertise (Le Gall et al., 2010). This awareness of the need for early identification of gifted youngsters has led to an increased number of soccer centres of excellence and academies throughout the world. Traditionally, identification and selection of promising individuals into youth soccer academies has been linked to a coach’s subjectivity and preconceived image of the player. Once this method is used in isolation it can result in tedious misjudgements in talent identification - hence the emphasis on science-based approaches. Through soccer-specific research, a number of anthropometric and physical parameters have been linked to successful performance in soccer. The primary aims of the study were to explore the anthropometric, somatotype and functional fitness characteristics of young academy soccer in South Africa and Zimbabwe and to distinguish variables that can be relevant for Talent Identification. The study followed a quantitative non-intervention design with a sample of convenience. A total of 74 young soccer players (Age 15.9±0.81) from South African (n = 41) and Zimbabwean (n = 33) soccer academies were purposively sampled. The following anthropometric variables were measured following the International Society of the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) protocol: body mass and height; skinfolds – (triceps, subscapular, biceps, iliac crest, supraspinale, abdominal, front thigh, medial calf); Girths – (arm relaxed, arm flexed and tensed, waist, gluteal, and calf); bone breadths – (biepicondylar humerus and biepicondylar femur). Functional fitness variables that were measured include: lower back muscle flexibility (sit and reach test), upper body flexibility (shoulder flexibility), leg power using (vertical and horizontal jumps), overhead throw (2kg medicine ball throw), speed tests (10, 20, and 40m sprint tests), agility (Illinois test) and aerobic fitness (Hoff test). There were no statistically significant differences in age, body mass, height, fat mass, body mass index, lower back flexibility, right shoulder flexibility, 20m sprint, and endurance capacity (p>0.05). Statistically significant differences were found in percentage body fat (p>0.05), sum of 8 skinfolds, fat free mass, somatotype, left shoulder flexibility, upper and lower body power, 10m and 40m sprints (p<0.01). South African players were found to have higher %BF and sum of skinfolds and then Zimbabwean players. It was concluded that Zimbabwean players performed significantly better than South Africans in agility, 10m, 40m sprints, vertical jump, horizontal jump and overhead throw and had better future chances of success in soccer. Goalkeepers were taller and heavier, while midfielders and defenders were found to be lighter and shorter. Goalkeepers were the most agile group, while forwards were the fastest group. Agility, power and speed were the most important variables that can be used during talent selection and coaches should purposefully work to develop these characteristic during training sessions. Height and weight are relevant in allocating positional roles to players and not in Talent Identification.
Bridging the gap from inpatient rehabilitation to sustainable health and wellness in spinal cord injured individuals
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2016-12) Vermaak, Candace; Ferreira, Suzanne; Terblanche, Elmarie; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science
ENGLISH ABSTRACT : Background: A spinal cord injury is a devastating and life changing neurological event that present multiple challenges throughout the life of the affected individual. One of the challenges is being physically active and more specifically healthy living. Physical activity has many benefits and plays an essential role in community reintegration, which is considered the final outcome of the rehabilitation process. In South Africa this outcome is seldom achieved due to the lack of physical activity opportunities. Without regular physical activity the physical gains that were achieved in hospital are easily diminished or lost and this is a major concern as it ultimately affects health and wellness. Objective: To determine the barriers and facilitators to physical activity and whether an intervention designed to reduce the barriers can be successful in promoting health and wellness in people with a spinal cord injury. Design: An experimental research design incorporating both quantitative and qualitative methodologies was used to execute the study. Methods: A self-developed research questionnaire was distributed to people with a spinal cord injury in the Western Cape, South Africa in order to identify the barriers to physical activity. The results from the research questionnaire were used to design a 16 week intervention which was implemented in two different environments (formal exercise setting and community based setting) and its success was measured by physical tests, the reintegration to normal living index questionnaire and the research questionnaire. Subjects: Fifty seven people with a spinal cord injury completed the research questionnaire and 16 participants partook in the intervention. Results: In the beginning (pre-intervention) the most important barriers were the environmental barriers and included problems with accessibility and lack of facilities, lack of transport, and the weather. The most reported facilitators were personal, which included a desire to be active, to improve self esteem and because physical activity made them feel good. Based on the results from the research questionnaire the intervention was implemented and showed that the participants from both groups improved their physical abilities (strength, endurance and functional abilities) and their satisfaction with community participation. The barriers that were identified prior to the intervention were also considerably reduced, especially in the community based group. The participants also agreed that physical activity was beneficial and important and that they would like to stay physically active post-intervention. Discussion and Conclusion: People with a spinal cord injury face many barriers in being physically active, however, by reducing the barriers a community based physical activity program can be successful in introducing people with a spinal cord injury to a life of healthy living and wellness. Although some of the environmental and program barriers remained, the personal facilitators that were identified were enough to ensure physical activity adherence.
The change in postural control in highly trained trail runners following a short, competitive, off-road time trial
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2023-03 ) Price, Nicholas; De Waal, Simon; Arnold, Sarah; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences. Dept. of Exercise, Sport and Lifestyle Medication.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Research on acute effects of trail running (TR) induced fatigue and postural control (PC) in highly trained trail runners is scarce. Therefore, the aim of this study was to measure the change in select postural control variables following a short, real-world, trail run time trail (26km; +900m) in a sample of highly trained trail runners. Thirteen (N=13) male, highly trained trail runners (age: 30.00  5.58 years old; weekly running: 65.00  6.45 kilometres) participated in this study. Participants completed five postural control system (PCS) tests before and after a short, real-world, TR time trial (26km +900m ascent). Balance tests included a Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction of Balance (MCTSIB), Single Leg Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction of Balance (SLMCTSIB) and a Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT). Postural sway and sway frequencies were measured via a Gyko Inertial Measurement Unit (Microgate, Italy) during four different stance conditions; firm surface with eyes open (FO), firm surface with eyes closed (FC), compliant surface with eyes open (CO), and compliant surface with eyes closed (CC). Jump tests included a Countermovement Jump Test (CMJ) and Single-Leg Countermovement Jump test (SLCMJ). Jump height and flight time were measured using OptoJump (Microgate, Italy) and two Logitech web cameras (30 fps). Tests for normality were performed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. A combination of paired samples t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to identify differences in mean scoresbefore and after the time trial (significance flagged as p<0.05). Statistically significant increases (p<0.05) in mediolateral sway were observed in stance conditions FO, FC and CC while anteroposterior sway showed significant increases (p<0.05) for stance conditions FO, and CO during the MCTSIB. A statistically significant increase (p<0.05) in mediolateral sway was observed in the SLMCTSIB for the FO stance condition. A significant decrease in reach length was observed during the SEBT in the anterior movement only (p<0.05) and only on the right foot. No statistically significant changes (p>0.05) were observed for maximal and mean jump height and time for CMJ. However, statistically significant decrements (p<0.05) were found for all variables during the SLCMJ test. This study's key finding was that significant changes in select PC variables were observed following a short TR time trial. In conclusion, it appears general TR-induced fatigue negatively impacts PC regulation following a 26km (+900m) trail run time trial. However, a combination of training status, task experience and compensatory strategies appear to limit the magnitude that general neuromuscular fatigue can have on PC regulation. A greater contribution from cognitive resources such as increased awareness and attentional demand could improve sensory detection capabilities needed to identify optimal balance demands via proprioceptive sensory sources. Future studies should measure trail runners of varying training statuses to better understand this phenomenon.
Changes in cognitive function and cerebral oxygenation patterns in rugby and non-contact sportspersons over a 15-week season
(Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2018-03) Clark, Anthony; Terblanche, Elmarie; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Education. Dept. of Sport Science.
ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Rugby is a contact team sport and is one of the most popular sports in South Africa and internationally. Recently, a growing body of research has highlighted that repeated concussive and subconcussive head contacts suffered during contact sport participation may have implications on athletes’ health later in life. Of particular concern is the notion that the accumulation of these blows to the head may spark progressive neurodegeneration in the form of diseases such as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). Despite these concerns, the focus of research in rugby appears to be on the diagnosis and acute treatment of concussive injury, with little thought given to the long-term consequences. The purpose of this study was to broaden our understanding of the effect of short-term exposure to physical contact on the brains of rugby players who participate in high-level contact sport competition. The primary aim of the study was to determine whether a fifteen-week season elicit a change in the cognitive function and cerebral oxygenation of rugby players when compared with age and sex matched non-contact athletes. The secondary aim was to determine whether changes in sleep quantity and quality, as well as mood states, took place that have the potential to impact the cognitive function and cerebral oxygenation of the participants. Twenty-nine university athletes (16 rugby players (21,3 ± 1,35 yrs) and 13 non-contact sport athletes (20,8 ± 1,97 yrs)) were assessed before and after the 2017 Varsity Cup rugby competition (± 15 weeks). Each participant completed the CNS Vital Signs® Core testing battery, with measurements of cerebral oxyhaemoglobin (Δ[O2Hb]), deoxyhaemoglobin (Δ[HHb]), tissue oxygenation index (TOI) and normalised total haemoglobin index (nTHI) conducted simultaneously throughout testing. The cognitive testing battery consisted of seven tests that assessed eleven cognitive domains, giving an overall estimate of cognitive function. Additionally, participants’ mood states and sleep status (quality and quantity) were measured prior to cognitive and cerebral oxygenation analysis each session. Overall, cognitive function did not change for either group over the 15-week season (ES = 0,11 and 0,06 for Rugby and Control, respectively). Cerebral oxygenation measurements did not reflect any unexpected changes within the Control group, however, relative Δ[HHb] (ES = 0,57) and nTHI (P = 0,01; ES = 1,29) were significantly increased at post-testing in the rugby players. These variables are considered indirect indicators of oxygen consumption and cerebral blood flow rate, respectively. Thus, while the rugby players’ cognitive performance was maintained, alterations to cerebral oxygenation data took place that may be the result of participation in their sport. These findings may suggest that subtle impairments are beginning to take place within the brains of the players. Therefore, although a 15-week season may not have been enough to induce obvious negative changes in rugby players’ cognitive function, exposure to contact over the course of multiple seasons may cause neural impairments to the extent that cognitive function, and health, are affected later in life. Despite these notions, it is recognised that changes in mood state and sleep pattern of the players may have confounded the results. Thus, additional research is required to further build on the sentiments proposed in this study.

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