ABSTRACT
The chapter aims to give the reader an overview reflecting the typical game demands and associated epidemiological injury risks reflected within the game of rugby 7’s, whilst forming ideas and concepts around best practice strength and conditioning preparation for this team sport. Readers should gain appreciation towards how strength and conditioning practices can look to maximise on field performance through methods and considerations that aim to minimise injury risk and maximise player availability, whilst pushing the boundaries of physical preparation for worst case physical demands. The chapter looks to aid the reader with knowledge around specific physical areas of development for the rugby 7’s player/team, such as speed and agility, strength and power, and metabolic development, in addition to tapering for competition. Additionally, specific detail in the programming sections aim to help form ideas around training organisation, with key training considerations that may help shape the philosophy of strength and conditioning coach.
