Nutrition on the other hand probably plays a role in developing the new stronger, faster player. Children and youth eat more protein and vegetables. Our youth today have also been taking more vitamin supplements. However a new major reason for bigger players is creatine supplementation. It has been increasingly used by rugby players since the mid 1990's.
Creatine allows players to rapidly and safely gain muscle mass.
Muscle size is directly related to strength. Since creatine stores energy in the muscle cells the athlete has more endurance and more stamina. Creatine is best at fueling type 2, fast twitch muscle fibers. This is the muscle type that contracts first and is used for rapid, explosive strength and speed. Undoubtedly weight training plays a major role in increasing the size, speed, and endurance of today's rugby players.