Play Touch Rugby League
The RFL’s new initiative Play Touch Rugby League, a fast-paced, minimal-contact version of the game is already proving popular across the country with over 50 venues offering the programme.
And what’s more today sees the launch of the campaign’s new video to inspire people of all ages, sizes and abilities to take part.
Play Touch Rugby League is a great alternative to the gym – participants can have fun getting fit whilst enjoying the excitement and camaraderie of the traditional game but without high impact tackling.
The sport provides a superb all body workout in only 40minutes, with players covering over 3km and working at 80 per cent of their maximal heart rate throughout the game.
Mark Bitcon, England Rugby League National Team Performance Manager and Director of Performance at Super League champions Wigan Warriors said: “It’s an extremely beneficial way of improving and maintaining your fitness. You can cover close to two miles in a game whilst having fun in a friendly, social environment.
“Many professional sports teams use activities like Touch Rugby League in their pre-season and season workouts as a way of keeping fit and helping to condition their bodies. Minimal contact appeals to many players that have never played before or have left due to injury.”
Camilla Zeitlin, a 21-year-old student from Chester got her first taste of the sport by taking part in Play Touch Rugby League and has been impressed by the experience.
“Before I started University, I had never played or even watched rugby. If you had told me then that I was going to become a Rugby League player, I would have laughed!” exclaimed Camilla.
“It’s a great workout, and I feel physically so much fitter since joining the League. The guys that we play with are incredibly supportive when we play within the mixed teams, like nothing else I’ve ever experienced in playing sport.
“I would encourage anyone looking to try a new sport to find their local Play Touch Rugby League, no matter what your fitness level or experience. It has been hugely rewarding for me in terms of the skills I have learnt and the people I have met. It has made me fall in love with sport all over again!”
Over 50 venues across the UK have already signed up to deliver the new format of the game this year. Along with traditional rugby clubs, local sports clubs and leisure centres will be joining Powerleague venues to offer teams and individuals the chance to try the new sport.
To find out where you can play this new game in 2014 visit www.playtouchrugbyleague.co.uk