Lower Tackle Height Reduces Head Contact in Rugby, Study Finds
A new study reveals that lowering the tackle height in community rugby significantly reduces dangerous head-to-head and head-to-shoulder contact. The research, conducted during the 2023/24 season, showed a 22% increase in players bending at the waist while tackling, the technique recommended to minimize head injuries.
Key Findings: Lower Tackles, Safer Play
- reduced Head contact: A 29% reduction in head-to-shoulder contact for both tacklers and ball carriers.
- Safer Technique: Tacklers were significantly more likely to bend at the waist, promoting safer tackling practices.
- Shift in Contact zone: A 19% reduction in head and upper torso contact to the ball-carrier, with an increase in tackles to the lower torso and upper legs.
- No Increase in Lower Limb Contact: Importantly, there was no observed rise in tacklers’ heads hitting the ball-carriers’ hips or knees, which could lead to other types of injuries.
The Science Behind the Change
Researchers analyzed over 18,000 tackles from 60 men’s community matches, comparing the pre-trial season (2022/23) with the trial season (2023/24). The study focused on tackle type, body position, contact point, and head contact, aligning with World Rugby‘s guidelines.
Global Initiative for Player Safety
This study is part of a broader international effort led by World Rugby to assess the impact of lowering tackle height across 11 countries, including rugby powerhouses like Australia, England, New Zealand, and South Africa. The goal is to make rugby safer at all levels by reducing concussion risk.
“Hugely Positive” Impact
According to officials, the study’s outcomes are “hugely positive” and demonstrate the effectiveness of the lowered tackle height in altering player behavior. Further research will monitor player behavior and injury data to fully understand the long-term implications of this rule change.
Community Rugby Embraces Change
The tackle height adjustment reflects efforts to evolve the game and increase player welfare while making Rugby Union a more exciting sport to play.
What actions can rugby coaches and players take *now* to implement the lowered tackle height technique and contribute to a safer playing environment?
Lower Tackle Height Reduces Head Contact in Rugby, Study Finds
A new study reveals that lowering the tackle height in community rugby significantly reduces hazardous head-to-head and head-to-shoulder contact.The research, conducted during the 2023/24 season, showed a 22% increase in players bending at the waist while tackling, the technique recommended to minimize head injuries.
Key Findings: Lower Tackles, Safer Play
- reduced Head contact: A 29% reduction in head-to-shoulder contact for both tacklers and ball carriers.
- safer technique: Tacklers were significantly more likely to bend at the waist, promoting safer tackling practices.
- Shift in Contact zone: A 19% reduction in head and upper torso contact to the ball-carrier, with an increase in tackles to the lower torso and upper legs.
- No Increase in Lower Limb Contact: Importantly, there was no observed rise in tacklers’ heads hitting the ball-carriers’ hips or knees, which could lead to other types of injuries.
the Science Behind the Change
Researchers analyzed over 18,000 tackles from 60 men’s community matches,comparing the pre-trial season (2022/23) with the trial season (2023/24).The study focused on tackle type, body position, contact point, and head contact, aligning with world rugby’s guidelines.
Global Initiative for Player Safety
This study is part of a broader international effort led by World Rugby to assess the impact of lowering tackle height across 11 countries, including rugby powerhouses like Australia, England, New Zealand, and South Africa. The goal is to make rugby safer at all levels by reducing concussion risk.
“Hugely Positive” Impact
According to officials,the study’s outcomes are “hugely positive” and demonstrate the effectiveness of the lowered tackle height in altering player behavior. Further research will monitor player behavior and injury data to fully understand the long-term implications of this rule change.
Community rugby Embraces Change
The tackle height adjustment reflects efforts to evolve the game and increase player welfare while making Rugby Union a more exciting sport to play.
Q&A: Diving Deeper into Safer Rugby
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What exactly is “lowering tackle height”?
It means players aim to tackle below the sternum (chest) instead of targeting the head or shoulders. This forces tacklers to bend at the waist.
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Why is lowering tackle height so important?
It significantly reduces the risk of concussions and head injuries, promoting player safety. Concussions can have serious long-term consequences.
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How big of a difference did the study find?
The study showed a 29% reduction in head-to-shoulder contact! Also, 22% more players were bending at the waist, signaling a shift towards safer tackling techniques.
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Is this change happening everywhere?
Yes, it’s a global initiative led by World Rugby, being trialed in 11 countries, including major rugby nations like England, Australia, and New Zealand.
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Will this make rugby less exciting?
No! The goal is to make the game safer, not less exciting. The study suggests that the change is improving player welfare while maintaining the thrill of the sport.
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What happens next?
Further research will continue to monitor player behavior and injury data to fully grasp the long-term effects of this rule change. This data will help refine the guidelines and ensure rugby remains a safe and exciting sport.
The data is clear: lowering tackle height is a crucial step towards a safer and more enjoyable rugby experience.Let’s embrace the change and encourage safer play!
