What are the three most important pieces of kit I need for training

To run the best sessions, you need the following three pieces of kit:

1. A decent ball

Obvious. The more balls, the better. Also, old, shiny balls are okay, but they don’t help the players much. They are good for some handling exercises, but generally, you want the players to work with what they will play with in a match.

2. Bibs

Rugby is about scoring tries. Players need to create and find space. They practise that most effectively is when they are working against an identifiable defence. That’s why the players must wear bibs – unless you have reversible shirts.

3. A whistle

You should be refereeing games in training. Players need to know when they are transgressing, just like in the game.

A whistle is also a good tool to gain attention or, in an exercise, set off the next group.

How about cones and pads?

Cones are helpful in marking out pitches. Yet the game boundaries aren’t defined by cones, but by lines. If you don’t have a marked-out area, some cones can help.

Pads are an additional resource to help with contact, but again, since there are no pads in the real game, if you don’t have them at training, you’re not missing out.