Springbok: What Does It Take to Make It?
Rugby is a physically demanding sport, and to succeed at the highest level requires a unique set of physical characteristics. In South Africa, the BokSmart initiative has identified the specific physical attributes needed to play safely at each level of the sport. But what does it take to make it to the top level of rugby in South Africa? Many aspiring schoolboy rugby players are asking that question.
The Forwards vs Backline Players
Recently the Sports Science Institute of South African (SSISA) looked into these question sand their findings help to lift the lid on what is required physically to make it at the highest level of rugby.
Traditionally, forwards and backline players have different physical attributes. The forwards are typically bigger and stronger, while backline players are leaner and more agile. To gain insights into what is needed to play at the top level of rugby in South Africa, the SSISA analyzed data from Springboks who had played between 2003 to 2018. The strength of these Springboks are staggering.
Strength Specific Rugby Positions
The physical standards for each level of play in rugby are specific to each position on the field. The BokSmart initiative mandates that players meet these standards before progressing to the next level of play. Official institutions like the Sports Science Institute of South Africa (SSISA) conduct the testing.
The tests include measurements such as height, weight, body mass index, body fat percentage, and specific fitness tests like the 1 repetition max bench press and the beep test. These tests provide critical information that informs periodization plans by identifying areas that need attention in strength and conditioning.
Regular body composition, anthropometric, and fitness testing is conducted out of season to prepare players for the upcoming seasons. This information is used to create a baseline of results that is on hand for interventions from specialists and health professionals as necessary.
Aspiring South African rugby players can benefit greatly from getting a better understanding of their body composition, anthropometric, and fitness data. This information can be used to shift training focus areas and lifestyle management accordingly.
So what were the findings. How strong are Springboks expected to be according to the various position? The SSISA findings for Physical Performance of Rugby Players look like this:
FRONT ROW:
LOCKS
LOOSE FORWARDS
INSIDE BACKS
OUTSIDE BACKS
The Pursuit of Excellence
In summary, the pursuit of excellence in rugby is often underscored through having better insights into player data. By understanding what it takes to make a Springbok, clubs and academies can better plan for player development, and aspiring rugby players can get a leg up on their competition. Stay tuned for more information on Periodization, Strength and Conditioning, Injury Prevention, and Boksmart in upcoming articles.
