Rugby coaches and PE teachers will be offered a free course to teach them how to instruct players and pupils to engage in an injury preventing exercise programme.

From next season, Rugby Football Union (RFU) coaches and teachers will have the opportunity to take part in the 90-minute training session on how to implement the programme.

The course – called the Activate - Injury Prevention Exercise Programme – will be delivered by RFU community rugby coaches.

Sessions will be supported with online resources, including videos and downloadable content.

The routine follows recommendation laid out by an Injury Prevention Study report compiled by the RFU and the University of Bath.

Training will be rolled out throughout the summer months.

“We are committed to player welfare and the hope is that this initiative will better prepare players and reduce injuries across the game,” said RFU community rugby medical director Dr Mike England.