ABSTRACT
The physical demands of international Rugby Union have increased in recent years due to a combination of factors including; the move to professionalism, changes in laws/game plans, and the increase in the number of high-profile competitions and international matches. This increased demand is supported by the increase in ball-in-play time in the Six Nations Championship from 42% in 2003 to 44% in 2004 (Thomas, 2004). To meet these increased demands sports scientists need to review the fitness requirements of the sport so that players can achieve optimal performance for the duration of matches. It is now universally accepted that success in rugby union requires high levels of skill combined with equally high levels of aerobic and anaerobic fitness (Duthie et al., 2003). Although all players need to possess a good level of all-round fitness positional differences exist within rugby union (Quarrie et al., 1996; Nicholas, 1997) which have implications for training prescription and testing procedures. Duthie et al. (2003) summarise these differences stating that:
Front row positions demand strength and power. Locks should be tall with a large body mass. Loose forwards require strength and power with excellent speed,
acceleration and endurance. Inside backs require strength, speed and power. Outside backs require considerable speed to out-manoeuvre their
opponents.
