Rugby · Number 8

Get fitter, faster and stronger as a Number 8. Your personal rugby S&C coach, built for your role.

CURVA Coach understands exactly what Number 8 demands physically. Your programme is built around those demands — not a generic template.

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What it takes to play Number 8 at your best

The four physical qualities that define performance at this position — and why they matter.

Power and explosive strength

Number 8s need to be explosive from standing starts — picking from the base of the scrum and accelerating into contact. Power clean, jump squat and plyometric work develop the explosive qualities that define elite number 8 play.

Ball carrying physicality

Number 8s are primary ball carriers expected to make ground through contact. Upper body strength for fending, core stability for staying on the feet and lower body power for leg drive through the tackle are all central to the programme.

Speed from set piece

The ability to accelerate explosively from scrum and maul is a core skill for number 8s. Sprint mechanics training and lower body power work are included specifically to develop starting speed from static positions.

Conditioning for high work rate

Number 8s are expected to carry, tackle and contest breakdowns throughout the game. The aerobic and anaerobic conditioning work in the programme ensures that physical intensity doesn't drop in the second half.

How your coach builds around your role

A Number 8 doesn't need the same programme as a Winger. CURVA Coach builds around the specific demands of your position — then layers in your schedule, your body and any niggles you're carrying.

Every two weeks, your coach reviews your progress and updates your programme. It adapts across pre-season, in-season and recovery so you're always doing the right work at the right time.

And if you have questions — about movement, nutrition, an injury niggle — your coach is available 24/7 in the app.

See how your numbers compare to professional Number 8s

Use our free Rugby strength standards calculator to see where you stand.

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