Introduction: To compare the repeated sprints ability in rugby players from adults and preadolescent children. Synthesis: We observed a smaller decrease in performance in children compared to adults (P < 0.01). A high correlation was found between maximal aerobic velocity and the sum of all sprints (seconds) performed during the twelve sprints and between the latter parameter and the performance of 30 s (i.e., run the longest distance as possible during an interval of 30 s) in adults and children. Conclusion: A 30 s running speed allows detecting the repeated sprints ability in children preadolescent rugby players.
© Copyright 2012 Science & Sports. Elsevier. All rights reserved.