Do subjective workload monitoring variables predict contact and non-contact injuries in elite female rugby 7’s players?

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationships between subjective measures of load and injuries in elite female rugby 7’s players. Methods: The data was collected from 18 players from July 2017-April 2018. Measures of wellbeing were self-reported by the players each morning on an app with scales from 1-6. Rate of perceived exertion (SRPE) was measured within 30mins of the activity for all training sessions and matches which was included as a measure of load. Variables were analysed using a binary logistic regression model against contact and non-contact injuries to assess relationships. Further analysis was performed to assess the pattern of variables 21 days prior to injury. Results: 55 injuries were recorded over the study period with an injury rate of 165/1000 match hours and 14/1000 training hours. Readiness to train (OR=0.651), duration of sleep (OR=0.994), SRPE (OR=0.998), upper (OR=0.514) and lower limb (OR=1.437) soreness were significant (p=<0.05) independent predictors of injury for non-contact injuries. Match play was the only variable to significantly predict contact injuries (OR=5.558). There were no significant relationships seen in the 21 days prior to injury. The relationship between training load and injuries was seen to follow a Ushaped pattern with an acute:chronic ratio >1.5 having the most risk of injury. Conclusion: Subjective load monitoring variables are associated with an increased injury risk in elite female rugby 7’s players. Monitoring and reacting to these variables could be a method of reducing non-contact injuries in this group.