I've recently played my first game, I played right wing. And took 2 tackles, but how would I get used to them. My team allows players to buy upper body padding, would that help prepare my body for the hits?I've recently played my first game, I played right wing. And took 2 tackles, but how would I get used to them. My team allows players to buy upper body padding, would that help prepare my body for the hits?

Commit to them. Going in slack with relaxed muscles leads to more bruising. Go into a tackle all tensed up at the impact.

You are playing Rugby mate - not ballet. Go into the collision with everything you have got, and give 110% every time you pull on a pair of boots. Toughen up and get stuck in.

do you really think shoulder pads will help with a 6ft islander running at you