World Rugby's Activate programme needs only cones and can fit within a 20-metre by 20-metre area; extra equipment is optional. Choose kit for the planned session, the number and age of players, available storage and the surfaces used. Add contact equipment only for coached drills that follow the relevant age-grade rules.
A rugby coaching kit can stay compact when equipment follows the actual session plan. World Rugby’s Activate warm-up uses cones to mark areas, while additional balls or equipment are optional; clubs can decide later whether a separate contact or set-piece purchase is justified.
Set up the field session first
| Session need | Equipment to consider | Purchase check |
|---|---|---|
| Marking a movement area | Cones or flat markers | Visibility, count, storage and whether the markers suit the playing surface |
| Passing or handling | Rugby balls in the assigned size | Match the ball size to the age grade and format; plan how the club will inflate and store them |
| Organizing small groups | Training bibs or another clear identifier | Compare sizing, color contrast, wash instructions and the number needed for the session design |
| Timing a circuit | Watch or simple timer | Check that a coach or assistant can see and use it while supervising the exercise |
| Contact practice | Age-appropriate tackle bags or shields | Check dimensions, condition, handles, cleaning and the coach’s contact progression |
World Rugby says Activate needs minimal equipment: cones to mark exercise areas. The exercises can be run in a 20-by-20-metre square, and coaches may add balls or other gear if doing so helps the activity while players still perform it properly. This gives clubs a practical way to plan around available space before buying larger training items.
For a club’s contact-equipment decision, compare tackle bags and shields and scrum machines. Fixed field equipment has different storage and installation needs, so see the posts, pads and flags guide. For a set-piece aid, review lineout lifting aids, then browse youth, coaching and referee gear.
Add contact and strength equipment by player group
World Rugby’s Rugby Ready guidance says equipment should suit players’ age and experience. It also says scrum machines and tackle or rucking bags should be kept in good condition and well maintained. Before buying, match the item to the intended drill, group, field and storage location; read the maker’s maintenance instructions and set an inspection routine.
Do not use a gear purchase to define the coaching progression. World Rugby’s scrum guidance says players should demonstrate competence at each stage and should not play in a scrum until they are Scrum Ready. Local age-grade rules and qualified coaches determine when a contact or set-piece activity is appropriate.
Sources
Common questions
What equipment does a rugby coach need first?
Start with the equipment required by the session plan. For World Rugby Activate, cones mark the exercise areas; the programme can also use rugby balls or other available gear when they help the activity.
Does rugby conditioning require a gym?
World Rugby says large amounts of specialist equipment are not needed for many on-field conditioning exercises. A coach can plan the session around the available field space and equipment.
When should a club buy tackle bags or shields?
Buy them when the coaching plan calls for contact drills and the equipment can be matched to the players and inspected. World Rugby says training equipment should suit the players' age and experience and remain in good condition.
What should a club check before ordering coaching equipment?
Compare player numbers, session use, storage, surface, transport and maintenance instructions. Confirm any local age-grade restrictions before purchasing contact equipment.