Rugby

League or Union: there are similar to both sports

Rugby is one of the world’s most popular sports and is played all over the UK, although rugby league has historically only been popular in northern England. On the face of it rugby union and rugby league may look quite similar but the former is played with 15 players and is generally a bit slower due to its ‘line-outs’, ‘rucks’ and ‘mauls’. Rugby league does without these forms of play and has just 13 players, intended as a more spectator-friendly version of the sport.

Pros:

• Lots of places to play (local clubs, pitches and parks)
• Social – known for its camaraderie
• Helps teamwork & leadership skills
• Inexpensive and requires very little equipment (sometimes just a rugby ball)
• Fitness: builds muscle and enhances cardiovascular, respiratory and metabolic function
• Health: reduces the risk of type-2 diabetes, some cancers, strokes, heart disease and depression, according to the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
• Mental health: releases endorphins, dopamine and serotonin that can help reduce stress and symptoms of anxiety and depression
• Boosts self-confidence and self-esteem
• Increases concentration, focus and problem solving skills

Cons:

• Usually requires good physical fitness
• A very physical sport with a high risk of injuries
• Difficult rules (compared to other sports)
• Hard to practise alone and can be difficult to find players
• Potential fallings-out with teammates
• Mud!

Get into Rugby Union: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland

Get into Rugby League: https://www.rugby-league.com/get-involved/play