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Contact training load
World Rugby and International Rugby Players’ new framework sets out clear and acceptable contact guidelines for training sessions, aiming to further inform coaches – and players – of best practice for reducing injury risk and optimising match preparation in season. The guidance covers the whole spectrum of contact training types, considering volume, intensity, frequency and predictability of contact, as well as the optimal structure of sessions across the typical training week, including crucial recovery and rest periods.
Recommended contact training limits for the professional game are:
a. Full contact training: maximum of 15 minutes per week across a maximum of two days per week with Mondays and Fridays comprising zero full contact training to allow for recovery and preparation
b. Controlled contact training: maximum of 40 minutes per week with at least one day of zero contact of any type
c. Live set piece training: maximum of 30 minutes set piece training per week is advised