How is Swansea University improving women's rugby safety?

Swansea University is conducting research to measure and improve the neck strength of female rugby players, aiming to prevent concussions and neurological damage.

Why is neck strength important for female rugby players?

Stronger necks can reinforce players against the whiplashing effect of impacts, reducing the likelihood of concussions and subsequent head trauma.

What is World Rugby's stance on women's rugby safety research?

World Rugby recognizes the differences in the women's game and prioritizes funding research into women's specific player welfare, requiring at least 50% female participation in studies.

Home / Sports / Rugby's Female Stars: Neck Strength Key to Concussion Prevention

Rugby's Female Stars: Neck Strength Key to Concussion Prevention

21 Feb

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Summary

Neck strength research is crucial for preventing concussions in women's rugby.
Concussion impacts in women's rugby were previously under-researched.
World Rugby funds research specifically for women's player welfare.

Rugby's Female Stars: Neck Strength Key to Concussion Prevention

Research at Swansea University is pioneering efforts to enhance women's rugby safety by focusing on neck strength. Scientists are testing female players to determine how to best prevent concussions and mitigate neurological damage.

This initiative is critical as the sport sees growing popularity among women and girls. Previously, safety research predominantly centered on male athletes, overlooking specific mechanisms of head trauma in the women's game, such as direct head-to-ground impacts.