Whats the best way to improve as a Lock?

Question

How can I improve my gameplay in the lock position. Are there any good Rugby books out there about this stuff? In fact, what are some good ways to learn in general (rugby videos, books, etc..)?

Answer 1

The best way would be to simply watch as much top level rugby as you can (ie: Super 12, Currie Cup, Heineken Cup) and try to watch your chosen player as much as possible.

In terms of improving as a lock, the set piece is massively important. Try to introduce some strength conditioning into your routine to 1 - increase your leg strength for scrum time, and 2 - increase your explosive power for line out jumping.

Other than that, just make sure your basics are solid - catching, passing, tackling, rucking.

Answer 2

1)Watch Victor Matfield play

2)work on jump squats and lunges to improve your leg power so you get better height in the line-out and drive the scrum

The biographies of Messrs Eales and Johnson may provide further insight~

Answer 3

Get your fitness up. And do your job first and then defence. Learn to read the game,although i think that is natural talent.

Answer 4

I successfully played lock at 200 pounds - a bit light for the position. Tenacity, stay low and strong when scrumming. Work with the props and hooker for best positioning, angle of support, etc.

On line outs, not only practice your jumping and timing - but also practice effectively taking out the opposing player through leveraging your weight.

Lastly - conditioning. I can honestly say roughly half my matches were won in the second half, because the opposing lock on line outs or in the scrums was sucking wind.