Preseason

What's the recommended periodisation for introducing each element during preseason in a 12 week block?

Nela TuipulotuCoach, Australia
ANSWERS
Cam HughesCoach, England

Hi Nela,

Thank you for your question. In a 12-week rugby preseason block, the goal is to gradually develop players' physical capacities, skill levels, and tactical understanding. Periodisation is key to ensuring that players peak at the right time while avoiding overtraining or injury. Below is a general framework for periodising a 12-week rugby preseason:

Weeks 1–4: General Strength, Aerobic Conditioning, Basic Skills & Technique.

Weeks 5–8: Sport-Specific Strength, Power, Speed, Advanced Skills, Complex Tactics.

Weeks 9–10: Intense Conditioning, Game-Based Drills, Full-Contact Work.

Weeks 11–12: Tapering, Skill Refinement, Full-Game Simulation, Mental Preparation.

This progression ensures that players are physically prepared while developing their technical, tactical, and psychological readiness to peak at the right time.

I hope this helps,

Cam

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