Rugby has been a popular sport in the UK for years, and it is arguably becoming more popular still. Rugby tournaments held in the UK and abroad generate excitement every year, such as the Six Nations, and people may feel inspired to take up the sport themselves from seeing such events. 

Getting started in rugby is not as difficult as people may think, and there are many local clubs up and down the country for players of all ages. However, as well as finding a club where you can play, you will also need to ensure that you have the proper equipment and knowledge of the rules of the game.

How to get started:

When getting started in your rugby journey, the first step is to find a club where you can play. Most areas will have local clubs run by members of the community that are open to all ages and skill levels. Younger people may decide to take up the sport by joining their school team or trying out for their university team. If you are unaware of any local clubs in your area, there are online resources available that help you to find your nearest club or provide a directory of clubs in the UK. There are also different levels and formats of rugby that you should consider when searching for a club. Clubs targeted at children will follow the rules of age grade rugby to ensure a safe environment, whereas clubs centered around adults may offer tag or contact rugby. 

Outside of institutional teams, e.g. a university or school rugby team, there is likely to be an emphasis on having fun and learning about the game instead of preparing to compete against others. As these teams are more casual you do not even need to have all of the rugby specific equipment to be able to join in with your first training session. For example, instead of using a sports holdall you may find that a large handbag will fit all of your basic equipment, such as a water bottle and a mouthguard, so this should not be a barrier preventing participation.

Essential Rugby Kit:

There are several essential items that you will need to wear on the pitch to keep yourself safe and ensure that you can play to the best of your ability.

Rugby Boots:

Rugby boots are a necessary part of any kit as they help players to maintain their footing on the pitch by providing grip and stability. Depending on the type of pitch being played on (e.g. soft ground or firm ground), the type of boots that are worn for the game will differ. The ideal pair of boots should fit snugly, but should not feel like they are pinching your foot or restricting movement.

Rugby Shirt:

When looking for a rugby shirt, the right fit is crucial for comfort and performance, and you will need to consider both your body type and playing style. Regular or loose fitting shirts enable unrestricted movement, whereas slim-fit shirts are more streamlined and can help to evade tacklers. Men’s rugby shirts also fit differently to women’s shirts to cater to differing body types. Men’s shirts are traditionally cut with a straight silhouette to be roomier, whereas women’s shirts are more tailored for a flattering fit.

Rugby Ball:

Rugby balls are available in a range of sizes, with each size being designed with a specific age group in mind. Balls designed for children are much smaller and lighter than those made for adult players. The grip on the outside of the ball will also play a part in the game, as it determines how firm of a grip players can have on the ball. For example, a ball that has higher ‘pimples’ provides the best grip, but it is not as good for kicking when compared to balls with lower ‘pimples’. The material that the ball is made from will additionally affect the grip offered, with natural rubber having a better grip than synthetic rubber, which is mainly used for durability. 

Other essential equipment:

A mouthguard is another essential item in any player’s kit, as it protects their teeth and reduces the risk of injury. Headguards are optional when playing, but they are recommended for certain positions, such as forwards. When playing in colder weather you may want to have base layers that can be used to keep yourself warm under your kit.

The Benefits of Playing Rugby:

Playing rugby has several benefits in terms of physical fitness and health, as the game often requires sprinting and tackling. This can improve your cardiovascular fitness and endurance, as well as increasing strength in your upper and lower body. 

To ensure that you are making the most of the physical benefits the game provides, you should also focus on proper recovery after playing. After participating in a game, you should refuel your body with foods that are rich in natural protein to help repair your muscles, and ensure that you are getting enough vitamins in your diet to support your overall wellbeing. 

As well as physical benefits, there are also mental and social benefits to playing rugby. Playing as part of a team will help to develop your social, communication and teambuilding skills, and the discipline that the game requires can help you to improve your own self-discipline.

Overall, rugby can be an accessible and rewarding sport to take part in. Many local clubs are often more than happy to be joined by newcomers to the sport, and it is better to learn in a safe environment where you will be taught by someone who has experience. 

You do not need to play with the intention of competing, as many clubs will have members who play because of their love of the game. Once you have found your local club, check that you have all of the essential gear needed so that you are well prepared to play safely.