Total rugby fitness is represented by the elements listed on the main menu

Rugby is a multi-sprint, multi-activity sport with intervals of ball in play and rest over a period of 80 minutes. Each position has its own particular demands on the player but the generic requirement is to produce high energy, high intensity movements during play.

The nature of the sport has changed during recent years, particularly with the onset of professionalism and this has lead to the growing importance of total rugby fitness. Consider the following variables:

• The game is getting faster with more 'ball in play' time
• Rule changes are encouraging fast open play
• Professionals have more opportunity to train
• Modern players need to be multi-skilled
• Scientific research is improving fitness training methods

Although these variables are more significant at an elite level, they will undoubtedly influence the demands on the players and coaches throughout the various levels of competition.

Time and Motion

Movement patterns exhibited during a game include:-

• Multiple accelerations of various distances
• Side stepping
• Running backwards, sideways and weaving
• Tackling
• Being tackled
• Mauls
• Rucks
• Set pieces (lineout, scrum and kick off receipts/chasing)
• Kicking
• Passing
• Rolling
• Down and up

Players, on average, cover 4500m during a game, which is broken down into walking, jogging, cruising and sprinting. Sprint distances are on average 20m but vary considerably, while forwards tend to cover more short distances of acceleration and experience more full body and contact movements.