How to Do Rugby Side Step

In Rugby, players need a plethora of techniques at their disposal to evade opponents and score. The side step is a maneuver that many use without even knowing they are attempting a Rugby technique. It's specifically helpful to smaller players to avoid a losing battle with much larger Rugby opponents. The side step is used in many sports, but here's how to perform it in Rugby.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hold the ball tightly as you run down the field toward your goal.

    • 2

      Run straight toward your opponent, as though you are going to collide head on with him.

    • 3

      Decide which direction you want to fake, and which way you'll actually go around the opponent. Look downfield to see which way contains the least amount of obstacles on the path to the goal line. Your brain must be prepared before your body can efficiently perform the side step.

    • 4

      Evade his tackle by quickly stepping to one side to fake him out, as soon as you get close enough to be tackled. Then, even more quickly, shift your weight to the opposite foot to go the other way. You'll be running around your opponent while they are headed in the wrong direction.

    • 5

      Repeat the maneuver as you come into contact with other opponents on the way to your goal. Switch up which side you fake to, so that the other team doesn't know in advance which way you'll really go.