Experiences of a controlled early exercise intervention following a sport-related concussion: A qualitative study of rugby union student-athletes

Early aerobic exercise is associated with improved outcomes following recovery from sport-related concussion (SRC) and is now recommended in guidance for clinicians managing athletes return-to-play. To explore student-athlete experiences of a novel early aerobic exercise intervention. Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. Loughborough University, UK. Ten rugby union university aged student-athletes (6 men) that had been medically diagnosed with an SRC sustained playing rugby. Three themes divided into eight supporting subthemes were generated. Main findings were: 1) Experience: despite some apprehension over the novel approach, most had a positive experience, 2) Adherence: Participants suggested reasonably good overall adherence to the prescribed exercises but intrinsic and extrinsic factors for non-adherence were identified, 3) Outcomes: the intervention was perceived to help rehabilitation, improve confidence, support retention of athletic identity and, for some, influenced more cautious attitudes toward brain health. The novel early exercise intervention was reasonably well received and adhered to. Unintended benefits included supporting retainment of athletic identity and encouraging precautious health behaviours. As early exercise protocols are refined, these findings will help inform the design and delivery of future interventions, particularly in relation to intensity and diversity of exercises and supporting education. •Controlled early exercise after a Sports-Related Concussion was well received amongst a small sample of rugby union athletes.•Adherence to different aspects of the programme varied, with some constraints to full adherence identified.•The intervention facilitated recovery, confidence and positive health behaviours.•This novel approach may help to improve attitudes towards reporting suspected SRC.