Rugby
Contact
Ruck Technique & Body Position
Rugby drill for contact training sessions
Players practise the correct body position and clean-out technique at the breakdown.
What This Drill Improves
This rugby drill is best for intermediate players who need focused work on contact. It works well with 8 players and can be adjusted by changing the space, pressure, or scoring rules.
Setup
Ball carrier goes to ground on contact pad. One cleaner, one poacher.
Instructions
- Carrier hits pad and presents ball backward.
- First cleaner drives over the ball — low hips, straight back.
- Second player seals the channel.
- Scrum half picks and goes. Rotate roles every 5 reps.
Coaching Points
✓ Clean-out: shoulder to hip of opponent.
✓ Drive through — don't stop at contact.
✓ Feet behind the ball at all times.
Common Mistakes to Watch For
- Players losing focus on the main coaching point.
- The drill area being too large or too small for the group.
- Progressing the drill before the basic pattern is clean.
Progressions: Make It Harder
→ 2 cleaners vs 1 poacher (live contest).
→ Time the ruck — must be clear within 3 seconds.
→ Full sequence: carry, contact, ruck, attack.
Regressions: Make It Easier
Start without defenders, then add pressure once the movement pattern is clear.
Allow extra touches until players understand the timing.
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