How can I toughen up for rugby?

Question

So I attend practice, and all that. I understand how the game works, many of the rules etc.

Anyway my problem is that I am 5'10, weigh 185 pounds, so most of the other guys are much bigger and intimidating.

Some of the guys explain stuff to me, like tactics, positioning etc, which is good, but then I s***w that up (most of the time) And as you know in rugby there is a lot of cussing and hurling insults going around, I find this funny so when I laugh then some guys say stuff like "wipe that stupid-a-s-s grin off your face, or I will do it for you!!!" But I don't mind that, it is still funny though.

But here is my issue, how do I deal with these much bigger guys, when running with the ball trying to break through them; trying to stop them etc. I usually feel like I am the most wortless guy out there, so how can I toughen up to play the sport right?

As an afterthought, nothing to do with the question, but, what a workout! I might go to practice just for that, I am sore

Answer 1

ahh rugby

the second best sport

next to soccer =P

I dont know, from all I can tell you, when you have the ball just put your head down and ram your way through

you might suprise the bigger guys

Answer 2

workout

Answer 3

Well keep it up, eventually you will 'get it' and then the game will be more fun, work on strength and speed building, not to mention stamina.Don't be scared but be smart to protect yourself .

But if all else fails, maybe you should just play badminton.

Answer 4

iiismelll a wannabeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee??????

Answer 5

go to the gym ALOT and just keep liften weights and all that

Answer 6

let me punch you in the face everyday for three weeks.

or just work on your speed and agility then you wont have to break through tackles.  because not everyone is a tackle breaker

Answer 7

Keep going to practice and just play you'll toughen up.  As far as the cussing and your reaction you must be getting in their heads...keep grinning.  

Work your lower body since all power comes from the legs, don't worry about "bulking up" and check out this link:  www.usarugby.org, look on the left menu under "Fit to Play" everything you need is there.

When it comes to you tackling or getting tackled..get in the Rucks and Mauls don't be afraid.  The game is much more civilized than soccer, no one is going to step on your head.

Answer 8

Hey man. What a coincidence. Im in the same situation as you. Im 5'11 about 185 pounds. Im also trying to toughen up for rugby. Extra hard for me since im in NZ. Most guys my age here are 2m tall and about 300 pounds of solid muscle. lol.

I just work out a lot, mostly my legs since since thats were most of the power to make tackles comes from. You should do a lot of squats and squat related excercises (such as deadlifts and romanian deadlifts) to strengthen legs. Also go out running, at least twice a week for at least half an hour.

You should also work on your upper body strength. Work on you biceps, triceps, shouldersand  forearms  a lot so you can get that cool fend off before that try. Also work on your overall body flexibility to avoid injury.

One more thing, drink a lot of water. Water is good. Remember that.

Hope i helped. By the way, how old are you and what position do you play??

Answer 9

Gain weight.