While half of Europe trains in the rain and cold,the rugby sevens world runners-up have found a setting that meets all the requirements for them to make history again: the Canary Islands.When Paco Hernández,the Spain sevens coach,designed the pre-season plan,he knew exactly what he wanted: mild temperatures,stable weather,first-class facilities,and an environment that promotes concentration.
The answer was a four-hour flight from the United Kingdom: the Atlantic archipelago of the Canary Islands. On the island of La Palma, the Leones sevens are completing three weeks of training before making their debut at the HSBC SVNS 2026 in Dubai.Two uninterrupted weeks in conditions that few European teams can replicate.
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When location is part of the strategy
Spain’s leap from not making the cut for the Olympics to reaching the world finals in Los Angeles has been one of the most remarkable stories on the circuit.Maintaining that level involves more than just talent: it requires a reliable working environment.
“The climate here is very similar to Dubai, although a bit milder,” explains Hernandez. “Training in a place like this allows us to adapt better. What’s more,La Palma is quiet,ideal for focusing on training,resting,and eating well. That’s the foundation of good performance.”
The figures speak for themselves: An average temperature of 22 °C, more than ten hours of daylight, and a virtually guaranteed stable climate.
“In many countries where we compete,the program has to be modified due to the climate or infrastructure. Here, we can carry out 100% of the plan,” says Manu García Sillero, the team’s physical trainer.
Spain’s rugby sevens team during their training camp on La Palma, Canary Islands
An advantage that goes beyond the sun
modern rugby demands as much from the mind as it does from the body. Jeremy Trevithick, a Spanish player wiht a British father, sums it up: “the competition is extremely tough, both physically and mentally. Training in an environment where everything flows, where your body and mind can rest, is a huge advantage. Everything is close by“`html
Canary Islands: A Premier Destination for Professional Sports Training
The Canary islands are rapidly gaining recognition as an ideal location for professional sports training, attracting teams and athletes from a variety of disciplines. With a consistently mild climate, diverse landscapes, and world-class facilities, the islands offer a unique and effective environment for readiness and performance enhancement.
Year-Round training Potential
One of the most significant advantages of the Canary Islands is their exceptional climate. Boasting average temperatures between 18°C and 25°C (64°F and 77°F) throughout the year, the islands provide optimal conditions for outdoor training, minimizing disruptions caused by inclement weather. This consistent climate allows athletes to maintain their training schedules without the need for extensive indoor alternatives.
Diverse Training Environments
the Canary Islands offer a remarkable variety of landscapes, catering to the specific needs of different sports. from volcanic terrains suitable for endurance training to pristine beaches perfect for water sports,and challenging mountains for high-altitude preparation,the islands provide a dynamic and stimulating environment. Teams can take advantage of these diverse settings to create complete training programs.
state-of-the-Art Facilities
The islands have invested heavily in developing state-of-the-art sports facilities. These include modern stadiums,well-equipped gyms,Olympic-sized swimming pools,and specialized training centers. Many hotels also offer dedicated sports facilities and services, providing a seamless experience for visiting teams and athletes.
Accessibility and Infrastructure
The Canary islands benefit from excellent air connectivity, with direct flights from major European cities. This accessibility simplifies travel logistics for teams and support staff. Moreover, the islands possess a well-developed infrastructure, including quality accommodation, transportation networks, and medical services, ensuring a comfortable and efficient training experience.
Popular sports and Teams
A wide range of sports teams and athletes are choosing the Canary Islands for their training camps. Rugby teams,cyclists,triathletes,footballers,and runners are among those who regularly use the islands’ facilities.The islands have hosted numerous international sporting events, further solidifying their reputation as a premier training destination.
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