If you want to play better rugby, you need solid technique. Good technique makes every pass, tackle, and kick more effective, and it reduces the chance of injury. Below you’ll find straightforward tips you can start using today, no matter if you’re a beginner or a seasoned player.
1. Body Positioning – Keep your hips low and shoulders over your feet when you’re running or defending. This low centre of gravity gives you balance and power. When you’re stuck in a tackle, dropping your shoulders into the contact makes it harder for the opponent to push you off.
2. Hand Placement – On a pass, spread your fingers and keep the ball at chest height. Your elbows should be slightly bent; that creates a natural platform for a clean release. For a tackle, aim to wrap your arms around the opponent’s waist or upper thighs, not just the torso.
3. Footwork – Quick, light steps let you change direction without losing momentum. Practice the "sidestep" drill: line up cones 1‑meter apart and shuffle laterally, keeping your knees bent and hips square.
Mastering these basics takes a few sessions, but once they become second nature, everything else clicks into place.
Pass & Catch Circuit – Pair up and stand 5 metres apart. Pass the ball with a spin, catch it, and immediately pass back. Add a third player for a triangular pattern to work on timing and accuracy under pressure.
Tackle Bag Challenge – Use a sturdy tackle bag or a padded dummy. Approach at full speed, lower your shoulders, and drive through with your legs. Focus on wrapping your arms tightly; release only after the bag hits the ground. Do 10 reps per side, then switch.
Kicking Consistency Drill – Mark a line 20 metres from a goal post. Take three steps, plant your non‑kicking foot beside the ball, and strike with a clean follow‑through. Record where each kick lands. After ten kicks, adjust your foot placement and aim for tighter grouping.
These drills are short – around 15‑20 minutes – but they target the exact movements you need on game day.
Want more ideas? Check out our article “Understanding the 130 Hour Rule for Rugby Players” for training load advice, or read “Why Is Rugby Banned in Greece?” for a deep look at how rules shape technique choices across the world.
Remember, consistency beats intensity. Spend a few minutes each day working on the fundamentals, and you’ll notice faster ball handling, stronger tackles, and cleaner kicks. Keep a notebook of what you practice, note any improvements, and adjust your routine every few weeks. That habit turns a good player into a great one.
Now grab a ball, head to the field, and put these tips into action. Your teammates will thank you, and your next match performance will speak for itself.
