HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens 2019

Mental fitness key in hot S'pore

Teams use ice baths, power naps to recharge as holders Fiji bid to hunt down leaders US

Jona Nareki of New Zealand attempting to stop Apenisa Cakaubalavu in their 24-5 Pool C defeat by Fiji at last weekend's Hong Kong Sevens. The All Blacks Sevens finished sixth, their worst tournament showing in more than a year, and have work to do to
Jona Nareki of New Zealand attempting to stop Apenisa Cakaubalavu in their 24-5 Pool C defeat by Fiji at last weekend's Hong Kong Sevens. The All Blacks Sevens finished sixth, their worst tournament showing in more than a year, and have work to do to catch up with world series leaders United States and Fiji in Singapore this weekend. PHOTO: AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
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At this weekend's HSBC Singapore Rugby Sevens, it is not speed or physical strength that will be key to coming out tops tomorrow but mental toughness, say the players The Straits Times spoke to.

Said United States captain Madison Hughes: "Here it's so hot, so teams that can push themselves through that mental barrier even when they're tired, sore, or when the game's going against them, those are the teams that'll do well."

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on April 13, 2019, with the headline Mental fitness key in hot S'pore. Subscribe