Global Rugby Magazine Issue #5 | Page 24

GLOBAL RUGBY SEPTEMBER STRENTH & CONDITIONING IN JUNIOR RUGBY In Global Rugby‘s Guest post today we would like to introduce one of Fast, Fit, Functional‘s trainers – Nick Garcia and his thoughts and research on Strength and Conditioning for juniors in rugby. Elite level athletes in every sport engage in strength and conditioning training as part of their weekly training routines. This level of elite of athlete dedicates 2-3 gym sessions a week where their athletic attributes consisting of strength, speed, acceleration, agility, power and mobility and flexibility are developed. These specialised training So why aren’t our junior athletes exposed to this elite level training? Throughout the fitness industry, there is a misconception that resistance training stunts growth and development in younger athletes. Strength training is also rumoured to have increased the chances of injury because their bodies are still developing and they are too young. There are no studies or evidence that supports either of the two points mentioned above. sessions are the elite athlete’s secret weapon, aiding in neuromuscular control and efficiency on and off the field. This is vital in preventing injury and increasing player longevity [1]. 24 Here Are The Facts: There are no studies or evidence that supports either of the two points mentioned above. In fact it’s quite the opposite. Junior athletes who have received strength training during their