Preseason Rugby Training

Strength, power and endurance are but just a range of the attributes that any rugby player needs for the new season. In order to fine tune and develop such elements, we at Rugby Plus believe a high quality, structured preseason training plan is paramount to ensure an explosive on-pitch experience.

When sifting through the never-ending debate of cardiovascular exercises, metabolic workouts and other complicated jargon being constantly discussed, there’s one term which should be prized over all others; functionality. Indeed, matching the biomechanics and body position of a movement in the gym to a movement on the pitch can rapidly improve a player’s dynamism to operate effectively in that specified position. Key traditional lifts such as the deadlift are considered staples of such programmes, proving especially effective for the likes of front row forwards where upward power is simply a necessity at the breakdown. Additionally, the likes of squats and bench presses have more than proved their credibility in decades past for building battle-worthy physiques. Cardio, it should go without saying, is also a crucial facet to enhancing general fitness and should be combined regularly with circuit-style methods to improve endurance and explosive ability.

On top of regular gym training, it’s paramount for squads to develop a sense of camaraderie both and off the pitch. As you’ll be spending a considerable amount of time with teammates over the course of the season - experiencing the highs of victory and the lows of defeat - preseason can act as vital period in which such bonds may be cemented. Therefore, Rugby Plus recommends that as much time is spent socialising as in the gym, if not for an excuse to hit the nearest bar…

From rugby training balls to rugby holdalls, Rugby Plus can provide all the necessary equipment at competitive prices to kick-start your club’s much anticipated, and in some cases daunting, preseason rugby training. 

The Rugby Initiation – Friend or Foe?

 

Scores of alcohol, boyish pranks, humiliating rituals and devilish games are just snippets of the general debauchery which rugby initiation ceremonies have become notorious for in recent times. Over the coming weeks, as blissfully unaware students-to-be take the plunge into the next stage of their young lives; many will endure a range of gruelling tasks and other missions to guarantee that much desired sport’s position.

Considering the hyper masculinity associated with rugby in particular, it’s of no surprise that horror stories constantly filter through the grapevine of naïve freshmen feebly attempting to prove their worth. From being bound to trees naked to consuming every shot known to man, the variety and harshness of tasks imposed on willing candidates by power-drunk seniors truly astounds. Constantly trying to outdo one another, these fresh-faced contenders are relentlessly put through their paces in a bid to cement their peers’ respect.

Even the word ‘initiation’ brings with it a wall of secrecy so strong, that, more often than not, even the members of the club have no knowledge concerning details of the event. Of course, it is these mysteries that act as such an enticing factor, creating a shroud of excitement around a team and support network that many can only strive to be a part of.

However, although these decadent traditions have come under much scrutiny – particularly for their glorification of a binge drinking culture – they do serve to play an important role. Feelings of empathy shared amongst peers who have suffered equally helps facilitate a sense of camaraderie which is vital to immersing oneself into university life. Such friendships soon play an effective role in life both on and off the pitch, creating a close-knit community which provides a valuable sense of belonging at a rather daunting transitional point in life.

Regardless, rugby clubs have become so integrated into modern university culture that to take away their initiation ceremonies would be to remove the very foundations of their culture. Of course, to secure your position in such a tight-knit community it’s essential to behave as well as look the part. Rugby Plus can provide you with everything from flamboyant under armour to battle-worthy boots, as well as a range of other rugby gear to kit out that eagerly awaiting sports bag. With that being said, the very best of luck to all rugby freshers for this coming year…

Leicester Tigers Rugby Competition

Leicester Tigers Rugby Competition 

As the dust settles following the Lion’s majestic triumphs this summer, it’s now time for the nations’ pride-soaked rugby following to return their focus to the nitty-gritty of national leagues. Indeed, with the Aviva Premiership having recently kicked off, the nations’ eyes have fast shifted to the country’s elite battling it out on a weekly basis.  

Much to anyone who isn’t their fan’s annoyance, it’s somewhat difficult to picture anyone other than the Leicester Tigers finishing top – subsequently cutting through that increasingly familiar path to the playoffs. Considerable competition will undoubtedly come from Northampton who - with the likes of North and Corbisiero at their disposal - will certainly pack a punch upfront. However, many have criticised Saints for a recurring fragility in the furlong, an aspect which Tigers certainly don’t possess. Other challenges will come from the likes of Saracens whose consistent determination has served them well in recent years, whilst Harlequins possess the ambition but lack the necessary quality to make a serious contention.

Regardless, it’s Leicester’s intuitive attack, unbreakable defence and steely fortitude which have acted as cornerstones for the team’s domination in recent years – aspects which many contenders can only strive to match.

Alas, in order to celebrate the Aviva Premiership and a year of rugby triumph, Rugby Plus is delighted to announce the opportunity for one lucky fan to win a signed Leicester Tigers home jersey. The competition will run from the 17^th to the 30^th of September with the winner being chosen at random. Follow Rugby Plus on Twitter and Facebook for more information and let the games commence!