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Rugby codes are popular sports that require strength, endurance and fitness. In United States, both rugby league and rugby union codes are played. Rugby codes are very much contact sports and involve two teams whose players push, tackle, throw, kick and run to get the ball behind the opposition’s try line.

Points can also be scored by kicking the ball through the goal posts for a conversion, penalty kick or drop goal. Rugby codes can be played both socially and competitively. People of all ages and abilities can get involved in rugby codes through clinics and modified rules games.

Although rugby codes are contact sports, the practice of tackling is usually only introduced to appropriate age groups. Children and younger players are introduced to rugby codes gradually, through more modified and non-contact versions of the sport. While playing rugby generally requires strength and agility, particular positions require specific additional skills such as jumping and precision kicking.

Rugby codes involve sprinting, tackling, pushing and kicking.

Health benefits include: ball-handling and kicking skills

Rugby codes also bring other benefits, such as: self-discipline. You can play at a local club or find a clinic for beginners.

No matter what shape, size or age you are, you’ll find a level that’s right for you. Rugby codes are quite complex and require participants to learn many individual and team skills. The American Rugby Union believes that younger rugby union players should be introduced to the game through its Junior Player Pathway Program, which is designed to introduce kids to the skills and tactical concepts of rugby in a safe and fun manner.

The National Rugby League recommends mini league and mod league as appropriate modified versions of the game for children. As tackling is the main defensive tactic, players can be prone to injuries, including: ankle sprains. You can reduce your risk of injury when playing rugby by: enforcing and abiding by game rules.

Playing fairly is not only important to help prevent injuries, but also to make sure you and your team mates enjoy the game. You can help increase fair play in rugby by: being respectful to your team mates, the opposition and the referees. Rugby codes for all ages and abilities Health benefits of rugby cardiovascular fitness and endurance strength in upper and lower body agility speed Other benefits of rugby team skills social interaction communication skills Getting started with rugby Avoiding rugby injuries shoulder joint sprains hamstring strains knee ligament injuries warming up and cooling down using protective equipment developing your skills using correct technique, particularly during contact with other players Fair play in rugby not engaging in foul play, such as dangerous tackles Where to get help Local rugby (union or league) club American Rugby Union Smartplay .