line out jumping

Question
hi nick
i have been playing rugby for 4 years now and we will just be starting lifting in line outs, i struggle to stay up in the air and seem to keep falling down can you give me any tips i thought maybe to just keep looking forward at the hooker and it might keep me upright.

cheers

Answer
There are a number of reasons why this may be happening. I suggest getting used to the feeling of being up high and taking a catch. This can be done by getting a chair or a ladder and standing on it while the hooker throws the ball at you. To get some stability work in use something with a small surface area. Brad Thorn of New Zealand stood on a fence post on a farm while his coach threw balls at him.

Eyes on the hooker is good, also give him a clear target with your hands - make a diamond shape by touching together you finger and thumbs, that is his target.

You will need to work with your lifter too. The rear lifter has to be solid and steady. the from is more about the straight up lift. I suggest filming your line-outs and training and reviewing together. also compare yourselves with pro-players by using Google images and You Tube.

Your jump needs to be clean, keep your feet together and your core engaged.

Practice, practice, practice.