The Rugby Health and Wellbeing Study
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Rugby Health and Wellbeing Study
IRAS ID
269424
Contact name
Nigel Arden
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 0 months, 30 days
Research summary
Regular physical activity is linked to a wide range of physical and mental health benefits. Only 66% of men and 58% females in United Kingdom meet recommended physical activity guidelines. Low physical activity and inactivity is the leading risk factor for mortality (one in six death from any cause) and the burden of disease globally. Consequently sports participation is encouraged as part of a healthy lifestyle. Rugby provides the opportunity to be active, and a source of moderate-to-vigorous levels of physical activity. Many start playing sports such as rugby in their childhood, and physical activity habits established in childhood are carry into adulthood through adolescence. \nAs a collision sport, the risk of injuries and concussion was high for rugby, consequently the focus of the majority of research and the media coverage of the sport. But, playing rugby may also have a positive impact on health and wellbeing, although little research has investigated this. Recreational and female players were under-represented in current rugby-related research. Including a diverse array of male and female rugby players, from all standards, across a variety of cultural backgrounds will provide a comprehensive overview of the health and wellbeing of individuals who play rugby. \nWe will use a survey questionnaire (Phase 1) and cross-validation of self-reported health data via data linkage (Phase 2). Data will be collected on demographic characteristics; rugby history; pain, injuries and surgery; medical history; physical activity; and wellbeing using validated tools (Phase 1). \nFindings will help to understand the main long-term health issues related to rugby participation, generate new insights and develop data-driven recommendations to safeguard rugby player’s health. Having scientific evidence of risks and benefits of rugby participation will have definite implications for player welfare as well as the development of the sport.\n
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/YH/0377
Date of REC Opinion
11 Nov 2019
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion