A bruising cost to taxpayers from amateur rugby injuries.

ACC says it's paid out $71.8 million in the past year for medical costs and income support to non-professional players.

The pay-outs relate to 64,000 ACC claims.

Rugby union claims well outweighed the next most costly sport for injuries, football, which drew $37.5 million in compensation.

Injuries suffered at the gym cost $34.2 million in ACC payments.