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You are in: Rugby Union: Features |  |
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In the scrum with Ben Evans | |
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Around the Academy: |
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It's not enough to be big and strong
I've always been a big lump! In my first rugby lesson at school the teacher looked me up and down and said: "You're a prop!" In rugby, the position you play will often depend on your size and stature. But these days props can't get away with just being big and strong. In fact it's probably the most technical of all the positions. That's why, if there's something you don't understand, you should never be afraid to ask for help. Your teacher or coach will be happy to explain things to you. By asking questions, you become more knowledgeable.
When it comes to technique, loose head props and tight head props are quite different. But whichever side of the scrum you play the physical characteristics are the same. You need to have a strong back and chest. And you need plenty of strength in your shoulders and legs too.
Props are no slouches either. You've got to be able to get to the breakdown quickly. You can't make one part of your game really good and neglect other aspects. Look at it as a complete package and work hard at acquiring the skills you don't have.
Because I was always that bit bigger than the other lads I used to do extra work to keep myself fit when I was younger. I'd often pull on an old pair of trainers and go on long cross-country runs. I didn't start doing weights until I was 16 and even then it wasn't anything too heavy. If you're not supervised properly you could end up developing a bad technique and cause yourself a lot of damage. I got a teacher to help me out to start off with then moved on to heavier weights when I was older. Eating healthily is second nature to me by now. I also make sure I get plenty of sleep at night. When you're training two or three times a day you need to make sure you get equal time to recover.
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