rugby france / training innovation

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APPLYING DESIGN THINKING TO OPTIMIZE THE MENTAL AND PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE OF ELITE ATHLETES

Approaching performance as a design problem to be solved enabled some valuable disruptive opportunities outside the scope of traditional coaching. 

SCOPE OF WORK

Develop an innovation strategy to deliver an integrated suite of performance-enhancing tools for coaches, players, and fans.

PROJECT ACTIVITIES

  • Research/Immersion/Tech Scan

  • Strategy/concept development

  • System/Interface/Device Design

  • Prototyping & Feasibility studies

  • Finalization; production liaison

OUTCOME

The chief result was the development of a PERFORMANCE HUB, an evolving platform which integrates existing performance tools with a new suite of training tech. The goal is providing a single consolidated access point for coaches, trainers, players, and fans.

The Performance Hub integrates three new individual tools to enhance each aspect of training at FFR.

  1. MOVEMENT OPTIMIZATION
    Technology systems that help coaches capture & assess players’ form. Visualizations help players fine-tune their performance by promoting better sensory motor control.

  2. MENTAL ACUITY
    Under pressure, players must make the right split-second tactical decision. Simulations & repetition help them train this mental capability. 

  3. PLAYER BIO
    Data-driven performance assessment helps manage training load and supports injury prevention. Tech interventions show patterns and potential, supporting talent identification and development. Objective metrics quantify if an athlete is fit to return to play when he is injured during a match.