Interview with England Rugby Star, Vicky Fleetwood

We caught up with England rugby star and World Cup winner, Vicky Fleetwood, who told us all about her passion for health, fitness and kombucha!

Vicky opens up about the beginnings of her rugby career, pre-match rituals, the importance of exercise for her mental health and her exciting kombucha journey…

When did you first get into rugby and how?

I first got into rugby at school when I was 14, when they offered it as an extra-curricular sport and I fancied giving it a go.

When did you first get called up to the England Women’s team?

I got my first senior cap in July 2011 but played for the U20s for 3 years prior to that.

Do you have any pre-match rituals?

Pre-match, my ritual consists of eating a big breakfast and having some caffeine. I have a coffee in the morning and then caffeine gum before the game.

How many days a week do you train?

I train 5-6 days a week. It depends on whether we have a game or not.

What other exercise do you enjoy?

Other than rugby, I love the gym and yoga, although I’m not very good at it.

How long have you been a PT?

I have been a personal trainer for 6 years.

How important is rugby/training for your mental health?

Training and rugby are hugely important for my mental health. I love the feeling after you’ve trained and worked hard. I live for that endorphin rush and, sometimes, when I have a rest day I just feel sluggish. I always prefer to move. You also have that time to yourself where you’re not thinking of anything else other than getting through that workout, or concentration on the game that you’re playing so it can be a bit of an escape from any worries or stresses that you have in your life. 

When were you first introduced to kombucha?

I first tried kombucha in Australia and fell in love with it!

What do you like about kombucha?

I find it really refreshing and I like that it has a fizziness to it without being overpowering. 

When do you usually drink it?

I don’t have a specific time that I drink it but I definitely do get cravings for it! 

Have you noticed any benefits of the drink?

I’ve noticed that it’s really settled my gut and I don’t get the same bloated feeling that I used to. 

What is your favourite flavour?

My favourite flavour is Pink Grapefruit and Guava!