The effect of integrative cognitive and physical exercises on tactical decisionmaking ability in young rugby players

This study aimed to examine the effects of a 12-week integrative cognitive–physical training program on decision-making accuracy and tactical performance in young rugby players. A total of 20 male athletes aged 12–21 years participated in the study. The program combined endurance, strength, and rugby-specific drills with structured cognitive tasks performed under high-intensity conditions. Physical performance indicators, heart rate, decision-making accuracy, reaction time, and tactical errors were assessed before and after the training intervention. The results showed that aerobic capacity increased by 10–15%, muscular strength improved by 12–18%, and decision-making accuracy under high heart rate conditions (180–200 bpm) improved from 62–70% to 81–85%. Reaction time decreased by an average of 0.25 seconds, while tactical errors were reduced by 15–20%. These findings indicate improvements in cognitive efficiency, neural processing, and in-game tactical performance. Integrative cognitive–physical training appears to be an effective strategy for developing both physical and cognitive abilities in youth rugby players. Coaches and practitioners are advised to incorporate cognitive tasks into high-intensity training sessions to optimize competitive readiness and athlete development.