31/10/2025
🏉 Shoulder Strength Testing for the Contact Athlete
Recurrent shoulder issues in contact sport? Don’t just guess — measure.
This young rugby player has been battling repeated contact-related shoulder pain.� Today, we’re using a modified ASH test (developed by Ben Ashworth ) to objectively assess his isometric shoulder strength in the key positions that matter on the field 👇
🔹 T position (90° abduction) – reflects the shoulder’s ability to stabilise under load during contact and lateral tackles.�
🔹 I position (180° abduction) – mimics long-lever reaching and overhead extension, a common weak link after shoulder trauma.
Traditionally, the ASH test uses a force platform to capture peak force output.� Here, we’re using a handheld dynamometer — a portable, practical alternative that still allows us to:�
✅ Quantify side-to-side strength differences�
✅ Monitor changes across rehab and return-to-play�
✅ Identify angle-specific weaknesses�
✅ Track true progress over time
Why it matters 👉 These positions simulate real-world contact angles, helping us ensure the athlete isn’t just pain-free — but strong and resilient across the full range of shoulder demands.
Reliable. Reproducible. Relevant to rugby.
💪� The ASH “I-Y-T” approach gives a snapshot of shoulder force-producing capacity — the data helps guide safe return to tackle and contact play.
🎯 Measure what matters, rebuild with purpose, return with confidence.
