Welcome to this comprehensive course on Back Row Forwards in Rugby Union. Whether you’re a player looking to elevate your game or a coach seeking to develop the tactical understanding and physical capabilities of your loose forwards, this course will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and insights needed to excel in three of the most dynamic and influential positions on the field.

The back row—comprising the Blindside Flanker (No. 6), Openside Flanker (No. 7), and Number 8—forms the critical link between your tight five and your backline. These three players are the engine room of your team’s forward play, the enforcers at the breakdown, and often the difference between winning and losing the collision battle. They must possess a unique blend of power, speed, technical excellence, and rugby intelligence that sets them apart from every other position on the pitch.

The Back Row Unit: Three Distinct Roles, One Unified Purpose

The Blindside Flanker (No. 6) is your physical enforcer—a powerful, robust player who excels in the tight exchanges, provides go-forward ball in attack, and delivers dominant tackles in defence. Operating primarily on the blindside of the scrum, the No. 6 must be comfortable working in confined spaces, winning collisions, and providing security at the breakdown.

The Openside Flanker (No. 7) is your breakdown specialist and arguably the most athletic player in your pack. This position demands relentless work rate, exceptional speed to the collision area, and the technical expertise to contest possession or secure quick ball. The No. 7 is often your primary pilferer and must possess an intuitive understanding of breakdown laws and the ability to operate in the grey areas of the game.

The Number 8 is the orchestrator of your back row, positioned at the base of the scrum with unique tactical responsibilities. This player must combine the physical presence of a forward with the ball-handling skills and vision of a back. The No. 8 controls possession from the base of the scrum, provides a powerful carrying option, and often acts as an additional decision-maker in your attacking structure.

Together, these three positions must function as a cohesive unit, complementing each other’s strengths, covering weaknesses, and working in perfect synchronization to dominate the gainline, control possession, and dictate the tempo of the match.

What This Course Will Cover

This course has been structured to develop every aspect of back row play, from the technical fundamentals through to advanced tactical concepts and the physical conditioning required to perform at the highest level. Over six comprehensive modules, we’ll break down the role of each position and provide you with practical, actionable coaching points that you can implement immediately.

Module 1 – Scrummaging will examine the technical requirements and responsibilities of each back row position in the scrum, including body position, binding techniques, pushing angles, and the critical role of the No. 8 in controlling possession at the base.

Module 2 – Lineout will explore how your back row supports and executes lineout play, from lifting and jumping techniques to defensive organization and attack patterns off lineout ball.

Module 3 – Open Play will analyze the movement patterns, decision-making, and skill execution required when the game breaks open, including support lines, distribution skills, and tactical positioning.

Module 4 – The Breakdown and Continuity will dive deep into the most crucial aspect of back row play—dominating the collision area, securing possession, and maintaining attacking momentum through multiple phases.

Module 5 – Conditioning will provide position-specific fitness protocols to develop the unique physical capabilities required for each role, including strength, power, speed, endurance, and recovery strategies.

Module 6 – Nutrition will outline the nutritional requirements to fuel performance, optimize recovery, and maintain the body composition needed to compete at the highest level.

Who This Course Is For

This course is designed for both players and coaches who are committed to developing expertise in back row play. If you’re a player, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of your role, learn the technical skills that will set you apart, and discover how to prepare your body and mind for the demands of elite-level rugby. If you’re a coach, you’ll acquire the tools to identify talent, develop your loose forwards, and implement tactical systems that maximize the impact of your back row unit.

Rugby Union is an evolving game, and the demands on back row forwards have never been greater. The modern loose forward must be powerful yet mobile, aggressive yet disciplined, relentless yet intelligent. This course will equip you with everything you need to meet those demands and excel in these pivotal positions.

Let’s begin this journey together and unlock the full potential of your back row