In
developing high-performance exercises for athletes, sports
scientists recommend routines that closely approximate the
joint and muscle movement used in the particular sport. Until
now rugby (one of the most strength-oriented team sports), has
had to rely on general purpose strength conditioning exercises
and equipment.This equipment does not adequately approximate
the joint and muscle movement of the rugby player.
In designing a machine specifically for the rugby player,
MyoQuip (the developers of the ScrumTruk apparatus), have converted the
vertical resistance of gravity into resistance in the
horizontal plane, which is where the rugby forward operates.
Forward dominance is the platform on which rugby success is
built. In establishing dominance, the crucial factor is the
ability of the forwards to deliver pushing power and to
withstand the counter-force generated by the opposing
pack.
ScrumTruk is a machine designed
specifically to develop that pushing power and resistance to
counter-pushing while in the body position of the scrum or
maul. Regular use of this apparatus by all forwards reinforces
the point that generating scrum and maul momentum and
resisting counter-momentum is the responsibility of the whole
pack. Engineered to handle weight loads to 250kg and beyond,
the ScrumTruk provides a challenge to
players of international standard as well as a safe and
intuitive way for young players to fully develop their
strength.
Benefits
Use of the ScrumTruk assists in the
following:
realistically simulates the compressive forces of the live
scrum and generates effective counter-resistance.
is ideal for observing and teaching correct body position
and delivery of pushing force.
facilitates individual testing of lower body strength in a
familiar and comfortable body position (Unlike the Barbell
Squat, the results do not depend on mastery of a complicated
movement).
enhances the capacity to effectively lift and support the
lineout jumper.
does not replace the scrum machine, rather the two
machines complement one another.*
Whilst exercising with ScrumTruk,
the lower spine adopts moderate curvature necessary for
effective pushing and avoidance of lower back strain. This
position also triggers isometric contraction of the
stabilising muscles of the pelvic and abdominal regions.
For open field play, ScrumTruk
develops the leg drive essential in both attacking and
defensive engagements. Its use is therefore recommended for
both backs and forwards.
*Scrum machines do
not develop pushing-strength, their function is for practising
technique and cohesion as a pack. Scrum machines also make it
difficult to assess the contribution of the individual
forward.
In
developing high-performance exercises for athletes, sports
scientists recommend routines that closely approximate the
joint and muscle movement used in the particular sport. Until
now rugby (one of the most strength-oriented team sports), has
had to rely on general purpose strength conditioning exercises
and equipment.This equipment does not adequately approximate
the joint and muscle movement of the rugby player.
