This study aimed to observe the effect of 8 weeks of resisted sled training (RST), with optimal loading for maximal power output production and initial levels of force, on the magnitude of improvement in sprint performance and individual sprint mechanical outputs in female amateur rugby union players. The study examined the horizontal Power-Force-Velocity profile (P-F-V profile), which provides a measure of the athlete`s individual balance between force and velocity capabilities (Sfv), theoretical maximum force (F0), theoretical maximum velocity (V0), maximum power (Pmax), the maximum ratio of force (Rfmax) and rate of decrease in ratio of force (Drf). Thirty-one participants (age = 23.7 ± 3.3years, BM = 69 ± 9Kg, height = 167.5 ± 5.2 cm) were divided into a control group and two experimental groups; forwards (FG) and backs (BG). For 8 consecutive weeks (16 sessions), all groups performed the same training programme: 2 sets of 5 × 30 m, but athletes assigned to FG and BG ran towing a resisted sled attached to their waists, with optimal loading for maximal power output production. Both FG and BG significantly improved (p = 0.05) in 5 and 20 m sprint performance, and in the mechanical properties related to the horizontal P-F-V profile. The correlation between the initial level of horizontal strength and the magnitude of improvement in Pmax also suggests that higher levels of horizontal force may lead to greater adaptations in RST. The P-F-V profile is a useful field method for identifying the weakest mechanical variable in rugby players during sprinting and enabling the prescription of individualized raining programmes according to specific running performance. Highlights The optimal loading for maximal power output production, for RST, is an effective way to improve sprint performance in 5 m and 20 m, besides the underline mechanical variables associated to sprint performance in amateur female rugby players. Players with higher levels of horizontal force (sprint performance) may develop greater adaptations in RST than players with high levels of vertical force application (CMJ). The RST may develop specific adaptations to the contextual requirements of rugby, due to the transference of similar patterns of movement during acceleration skills and consequently, the enhancement of mechanical properties. The horizontal Power-Force-Velocity profile is a useful and approachable field method to monitor changes in mechanical variables during the sprinting performance and to assess the effectiveness of prescribed training.
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