Rugby
Sun protection guidelines for those participating, spectating, or working in sport or outdoor recreation. The following specific tips have been developed with the help of the Rugby Football Union.
Rugby
- Apply a broad-spectrum product with an SPF 30 or higher, paying special attention to your ears, nose, and shoulders, as well as other areas which are prone to burning.
- Get into the habit of applying sunscreen before you start training or playing.
- Once applied to the skin, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or more often if you are prone to excessive sweating or simply working hard!
- The sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm so on particularly hot days, if possible, try to plan play outside of these hours.
- Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs. Compression sleeves and rugby skins are a good alternative for those that might find a long-sleeved shirt too hot.
- Using a sunscreen applicator or cleaning palms with a small towel and alcohol gel, is a good way to avoid fumbling the ball due to greasy hands whilst playing.
- Wearing rugby headguards will provide some protection to your forehead and ears, however it doesn’t provide full protection and your neck is still exposed! Make sure to wear a cap or ideally wide brim hat when not on the field.
- Hydration is essential in reducing the risk of overheating. Keep a bottle of water on hand to remain hydrated in between plays.
- When not actively playing and during breaks, make sure to rest in shaded areas to reduce your exposure to the sun.
- Whilst spectating or on break, do so in a shaded area out of direct sunlight.
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