You can always try other shorter noncontact forms of the game if you don’t initially fancy the full on physical challenge.
When playing the full contact version, you’ll want to give your body whatever protection is allowed. There’s an array of protective equipment available, from lightweight jerseys with removable pads, to forearm guards, bicep guards, calf and Achilles protectors, headgear and mouthguards. Although you may want to start with equipment, headgear and mouthguards are the two most important pieces you’ll need.