Rugby tackle technique can be altered with coaching guidance

Tackling is repetitively performed in rugby game play, critical to team performance, yet poor execution increase injury risk. Players are taught from a young age to engage in 1-on-1 lower or upper body tackles, yet limited research on whether coaching instruction can alter three-dimensional (3D) tackle techniques exists. This study found a 1-on-1 tackle technique can be altered under expert coaching. A more “head up and forward/face up” and “straight back” posture in the Tahu than traditional tackle, is likely to increase tackle success and may lower head injury risk, a finding requiring further research to substantiate.