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The Italian Rugby Federation and Wattbike have announced a partnership.
The aim of the new relationship is to optimise the Italian Rugby Team, Benetton Rugby and Zebre Rugby Club fitness. Together they are aiming to develop individual protocols for those players who need to improve or maintain their fitness standards whilst reducing their training on the field.
Wattbike has supplied FIR with four of its Wattbike Pro bikes; currently used by Benetton Rugby and Zebre Rugby Club, and will develop the partnership by working closely with FIR and franchise staff.
Head of human performance at FIR Pete Atkinson said: “Working with a technology partner such as Wattbike allows us the opportunity to boost the National Team and PRO14 franchise’s physical preparation. It helps us be efficient with players who need to offload following a matchday, or those with a background of injury, in order to maintain the highest possible level of fitness.”
Wattbike managing director Richard Baker added: “Wattbike was founded on being the world’s most accurate, reliable and measurable bike ergometer. This, combined with our unique resistance system offers the complete off feet training tool. Over the past five years we have worked with top rugby players and teams from around the world to understand the best ways the Wattbike can be used to enhance player performance
“Having the opportunity to work with the FIR and be part of their journey to develop the competitiveness of their national team is something we are very proud to be part of. We look forward to sharing our knowledge and training expertise as they seek to take the national team to the next level.”
