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First steps taken as players return for limited conditioning

First Team News | 9th July 2020


Cardiff Blues have taken the first steps towards the return of rugby with limited conditioning at the new High Motive training ground.

As announced last month, it is hoped that a truncated Guinness PRO14 season can resume from August 22.

In preparation for this the senior squad are now taking part in limited strength and conditioning on a voluntary basis in small groups.

It is part of Phase One of the return to rugby and follows strict protocols and procedures compliant with Welsh government and WRU guidelines.

 

Cardiff Blues head coach John Mulvihill said: “It’s been great to get the boys in this week for some testing and conditioning work. 

“It’s been more than three months since we last had them in our building and while we have stayed in touch from a well-being point of view, it is been brilliant to have them back, albeit on a limited basis.

“Throughout this entire period, I’ve been really impressed with the resilience of the entire group and they have all returned in really good shape having kept themselves ticking over in home gyms and garages.

“Our temporary training ground at Pentwyn Leisure Centre is absolutely fantastic and our staff and partners like High Motive, Dragon Signs and Up and Running Fitness Services have worked tirelessly to create a safe environment for us all.

“It’s exciting to be back in some form and we are looking forward to progressing in line with government, tournament and union guidelines.”

To ensure every possible precaution is being taken, players must complete a daily symptom check before leaving home and travel to training alone.

Upon arrival they are temperature checked by Cardiff Blues medical staff before progressing to a thermal temperature scanner as they enter the building. 

Training takes place with six staggered groups throughout the day and a substantial reduced workforce.

Other safety measures include a one-way system, no facilities other than the gym, 3G pitch and toilets in use and a rigorous cleaning schedule at regular intervals.

You can read more about Cardiff Blues temporary training ground here.