Should i get more muscles to play rugby league?

Question

well i want to play rugby league and i was just wandering if i need more muscles so i don't get hurt. i fractured my collar bone like 6 months ago and im thinking of starting rugby in 2 months.
i am 14, 178cm and i weigh 67kg. but im fast
should i try and get more muscles or stay the same?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

Yes--you should.

You shouldn't get "gym muscles" however.

If you are thinking of playing in the forwards then bulk counts for a lot--you will get hurt if you are not strong enough or if you are not big enough you won't be able to last a game. In the forwards size does matter--don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

If you are going to play in the backs then some simple compound exercises for the upper-body will help you in tackle situations--do things like bench-press, millitary press, bent over-row--exercises that help you develop power and that use more than one joint--as opposed to things such as bicep curls which only require the use of one joint (your elbow).

If you are going to play in the backs then it will be really worth while doing exercises which stress your "fast-twitch" muscle fibers. This means doing ply-metrics and work with a medicine ball. This is because you want to develop explosive power. It would really be worth while talking to a personal trainer about things such as ply-metrics.

League is different from union in that it is impact orientated, whereas union is more about gradually over-powering your opponent, so the training should be based around this.

It's well worth doing some weight training--if for no other reason that it decreases your chances of injury.

Remember however to always incorporate fitness training such as boxing or sprints into your workout.

Hope that helps

G

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

thanks

Answer 2

No you dont need to be big. some of the worlds best players are small.
But you do need to strengthen some areas to reduce injuries. You will naturally start putting weight on when a little older.
Remember its all about technique and the bigger you are the harder you fall.