Talking to Women’s Health for its special edition Naked issue, five of the players discussed their different body shapes and how they help them to achieve their sporting goals.
Included in the article is Heather Fisher, Amy Wilson-Hardy, Michaela Staniford, Danielle Waterman and Claire Allan.
The full interview with the women’s rugby team will appeared in Women’s Health magazine from September 2016.
Michaela Staniford, winger:
“The ‘rugby girl’ stereotype doesn’t really exist. At 5’8” and just over 11st, I’m quite light – perfect for being lifted to catch the ball. But I struggle to maintain protective muscle mass. Every three hours I eat protein, as well as fruit and veg. I have to be disciplined, but when I retire it’s going to be brunch and cocktails!”
Danielle Waterman, fullback:
“I’ll always remember trying on my prom dress and being upset at how broad and muscular I was. It was my brother who pointed out that my build was the very thing that would help me achieve my dreams of playing pro rugby for England. It changed my mindset and I hold on to it still. My body is how it is – 5ft 8in and powerful. For good reason.”
Claire Allan, centre:
“Before I turned professional, I was a policewoman – chasing suspects turned out to be good practice for the field. I’m naturally slim, and my coaches wanted me to put on weight when I started. Now I lift weights and am much stronger, and more powerful – I’m one stone heavier now at 10st, and I love my calves. Working out helps me mentally too; I’m so ready to get back to it after rest days.”
LIST | 16 Inspiring Female Rugby Players to Follow on Instagram
Some of the most inspirational women around are a click away. Female rugby players from all around the world are all included in this brilliant list of exceptional athletes.
1. Vicky Fleetwood
The England hooker kicks off our list, although her abs are not what you’d traditionally expect from a front-rower. Her tips and tricks in the gym combined with her snaps from inside the England camp make her well worth the follow.
2. Ellie Boatman
Richmond winger Ellie has transformed her body and will help you do the same. From meal ideas to workout tips, she has everything covered. Ellie also happens to have the most impressive collection of gymwear in the history of gymwear, bringing her Instagram game to a new level.
3. Charlotte Caslick
No women’s rugby round-up would be complete without Charlotte Caslick. She’s not only one of the best players in the world, but she’s publicly engaged and hilariously active on social media.
4. Georgia Page
If you don’t know Georgia, she went viral in a video. This one…
She’s now become a hit on Instagram with over 50k followers and is often keeping us amused with her bubbly attitude and of course, her love of rugby. She also now a qualified Doctor!
5. Angela Elena
This body confident Swiss international has swagger, banter and serious style.
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6. Heather Fisher
One of the most inspiring names in Rugby today, Fisher not only boasts achievements on the pitch as a World Cup winner and an Olympian but off the field too. This involves coping with not only anorexia but the effects of having lost all her hair, from head to toe, to a severe form of the autoimmune disorder Alopecia Areata. It’s an honest account full of inspiration.
7. Yylva Schwartz
Schwartz, who is a Sweden international, is an incredible athlete. Hugely talented, the winger will let you join her fitness journey while also sharing snaps from her exciting rugby life, which she puts her heart and soul into.
8. Emily Scarratt
She is best known as the player who secured England’s 2014 Women’s World Cup triumph with six minutes left in the game. Her account showcases what she gets up to on and off the pitch.
9. Bianca Farella
Olympic bronze medalist, big legs and the most amazing smile, join the Canada international as she travels the world playing the sport we love.
10. Richelle Stephens
The American is not only a rugby player but now a mum. That’s double badass.
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11. Taylor Bird
Taylor, who plays women’s rugby 7’s for the Manly Mermaids in Australia, shares some pretty intense workouts. She already has over 28k followers!
12. Isobelle Eyres
Chasing eggs since 1999, this rugby star is a charming player who doesn’t take herself too seriously. A total badass with a sense of humour.
13. Chloe Butler
Australian international Butler is able to take a big hit but also dish them out. When she isn’t on the pitch she’s outdoors, fishing, in the gym or coaching.
14. Portia Woodman
Woodman is one of the most recognisable players in women's rugby. The egg-chaser's pace, strength and determination has led to her becoming top try scorer in World Series history. The New Zealander is a supreme athlete.
15. Layla Singleton
Join rugby mad Layla on her fitness journey. The Sheffield Ladies star is strength, grace, control, power and beauty all rolled into one.
16. Danielle Evans
Rugby boots will be swapped for high heels when she bids for glory at the Miss Great Britain pageant next month.