Rugby Contact

Ruck Technique & Body Position

Players practise the correct body position and clean-out technique at the breakdown.

20 minDuration
8 playersGroup size
IntermediateDifficulty
20×15 mSpace needed
Tackle bags, ballsEquipment

Setup

Ball carrier goes to ground on contact pad. One cleaner, one poacher.

Instructions

  1. Carrier hits pad and presents ball backward.
  2. First cleaner drives over the ball — low hips, straight back.
  3. Second player seals the channel.
  4. 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.

Progressions

→ 2 cleaners vs 1 poacher (live contest).
→ Time the ruck — must be clear within 3 seconds.
→ Full sequence: carry, contact, ruck, attack.

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ruck breakdown contact technique
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