Rugby has long been traditionally a man’s game and you might be surprised to learn that these days there are over 15,000 girls and women who play the sport in England. Rugby is becoming increasingly popular and as such, is being adopted by more schools across the country as part of their PE curriculum for girls and boys. Here are some interesting reasons why rugby could be beneficial for girls and women:
It is challenging
The sport of rugby is challenging, both physically and mentally. It needs determination and grit, the desire to push oneself to the limits. It sounds hard but many people find it fun, exhilarating with never a dull moment. Why not introduce some challenges drills to your next warmup? For a new Rugby Drill to try, visit http://www.sportplan.net/drills/Rugby
The way girls and young women think about their bodies is high on the agenda at the moment and rugby can go a long way towards helping women think in more positive terms about their body image. The sport is so physical that is does require a certain level of fitness and power to play. While playing rugby and building up strength and muscle, young women won’t be worrying about diets, fashion or how they look but feeling empowered and stronger.
Forming friendships
Teammates develop a strong bond, with many players reporting feeling like their teammates are an extended family. You go through a lot together – tough training and working together in games, bringing you closer together as one unit with shared experiences. There are lots of opportunities to socialise together and develop a wonderful camaraderie and support for one another.
Being a part of something
Being part of something is very important for our mental wellbeing and being part of something that includes victories, trophies and titles is even more fulfilling. You’ll experience a huge sense of accomplishment, especially on beating a really tough opponent. Of course, it doesn’t have to be all about winning to still be fun, as many take up playing rugby purely for the fitness and social aspects it brings.
Total workout
Some people find running or solo training at a gym is boring or just not for them. If exercising with like-minded people in an outdoor environment is more your cup of tea, you’ll feel motivated by a team sport like rugby. It is also a total body workout, consisting of both aerobic and anaerobic exercise, as well as working both the upper and lower parts of the body.
It is a highly inclusive sport, no matter whether you are male, female, young, old or whatever size you are. Everyone has a strength that they can bring to the game.
Better confidence
As you increase your strength and endurance, you’ll feel fitter and more confident in yourself. Rugby teaches many different skills, not of all which are physical in nature. You’ll also feel more confident when it comes to leadership, communication and teamworking.
