Abstract
Mouthguards (MGs) are highly recommended in rugby. Airway obstruction and a resulting
decrease in power output are potential disadvantages of their usage. The aim of the
study was to assess possible limitations of “vented” (MGV) and custom-made mouthguards (MGC) on rugby players’ performance. The MG effects were investigated in 13 male first-league
rugby players ranging from 18–34 years old. First a lung function test was completed.
Then a double incremental treadmill test was performed to measure maximum aerobic
performance, ventilation, VO2, VCO2, heart rate, and lactate. Effects on sprint times (10 and 40 m) and countermovement
jumps were also investigated. Peak flow values were significantly decreased with MGV by about 0.9 l/s. Neither ventilatory parameters nor oxygen uptake were affected
by either of the mouthguards. Maximum lactate was significantly decreased in both
MG types vs. no MG use. The maximum running velocity was similar in all tests. The
aerobic energy turnover was moderately increased with the MGC and MGV. No effects were seen on sprint times or jump tests. Although neither type of mouthguard
had a significant impact on maximum performance in treadmill running, the anaerobic
energy turnover was decreased.
Key words
rugby - mouthguard - performance - ergogenic aid
