What's Happening?
World Rugby has committed to equal research efforts for both men's and women's games, leading to significant health and performance breakthroughs in women's rugby. Dr. Lindsay Starling, World Rugby's medical manager, highlights the increased susceptibility of women to concussions compared to men, despite similar rates of occurrence. Factors such as physiological differences, neck strength, and later entry into the sport are being studied. Innovations like smart mouthguards are being used to monitor head impacts and raise awareness about concussion risks. Additionally, breast health and pelvic health are being prioritized, with research into protective equipment and resources for players.
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Why It's Important?
The focus on women's health in rugby represents a broader shift towards gender equality in sports science research. Addressing concussion risks and other health concerns specific to women can lead to improved safety protocols and training techniques, enhancing player welfare. The use of smart mouthguards and protective equipment could set new standards for injury prevention in contact sports. This research not only benefits rugby but also has implications for women's sports globally, potentially influencing policies and practices across various disciplines.
What's Next?
World Rugby plans to implement regulations for breast protection equipment within the next six months, aiming to reduce injury risks while ensuring safety. Ongoing research into pelvic health and menstrual cycle impacts will continue, with efforts to make these topics less taboo among players and coaches. The commitment to equal research funding and focus on women's health is expected to drive further innovations and improvements in player welfare, potentially influencing other sports organizations to adopt similar practices.
