Training Programs
A training program must be carefully planned by the coach if the desired outcomes (e.g improving player skills, cohesive team play, etc) are to be achieved.
Effective training programs are the culmination of a coach's knowledge about individual player strengths and weaknesses through fitness testing and games analysis, and an understanding of training principles and methods.
The following stimulus material illustrate how training principles and methods can be used within Rugby training programs.
Resources
Skill training programs. Training sessions from three consecutive National Training Squad (NTS) skill training programs developed by Wallabies Skills Coach Scott Wisemantel.
Power training. This extract from the Sports Science Manual for Rugby contains information about the training principles associated with plyometric training, along with tips and programs for early pre-season, late pre-season and in-season.
Strength training program guidelines. These guidelines from the National Under 16s Championship Player Booklet contains a 20-week resistance training program designed for adolescent Rugby players looking to develop their muscular strength and power.
Sprint Running Program. This three-session interval training program for backs and forwards from the Sports Science Manual for Rugby are recommended for club Rugby players who aim to increase their speed and anaerobic threshold.
Endurance training. This extract from the Sports Science Manual for Rugby includes information about the importance of endurance fitness for Rugby players, the physiological adaptations that occur due to endurance training, activities that promote endurance fitness and example endurance training sessions used by the Wallabies.
Ten steps of pre-season training. An Inside Rugby article by Jason Weber, the Wallabies Physical Performance Manager, that outlines and describes ten steps of effective pre-season training, including establishing a base line, stretching, progression and recovery cycles.
Getting fit quick. An Inside Rugby article by Jason Weber, the Wallabies Physical Performance Manager, that identifies the need for pre-season fitness training in this article, listing important training tips and considerations for Rugby players and providing a six-week pre-season training program for a club Rugby player.
A question of specificity. An Inside Rugby article by Jason Weber, the Wallabies Physical Performance Manager, that defines the training principle of specificity, explains the Fartlek training method and provides a physical definition of Rugby.
Speed and how to get it. An Inside Rugby article by Jason Weber, the Wallabies Physical Performance Manager, that provides an eight session interval training program for club Rugby players and explains why speed is the most important attacking weapon in Rugby.
The big five. An Inside Rugby article by Jason Weber, the Wallabies Physical Performance Manager, who discusses the five most effective resistance training exercises for the development of muscular strength and lists the key technical points for each of the exercises.
Note: All material included in the stimulus material above are intended as a guide only and should not be treated as a substitute for professional supervision or advice. Before commencing any training sessions or programs you should consider consulting a qualified fitness advisor or Rugbycoach to ensure the session or program is suitable for participants. If a participant has a medical condition or is taking medication they should consult with their doctor. The ARU accepts no responsibility for injuries incurred in the implementation of these programs.
