Pro Tips

SAM VESTY OF ENGLAND AND BATH

Sam Vesty’s presence at Bath Rugby brings a range of skills to the squad with a multi talented utility back.

A three year deal as a result of a move from Leicester Tigers sees the England capped fly half/ full back come to Bath after having played 164 games for the Tigers.

He won representative honours with England Under 18, 21 as well as the England Saxons in which he played in the 2006 Churchill Cup in the USA. His full international call up came in 2009 against Argentina gaining two caps as a replacement.

Vesty, an all-round footballer whose varied kicking game and excellent running skills will be a great asset to the Bath team, has a real ability to bring out the best in others around him.

1.How have you settled in at Bath?

“It has been a very easy transition for me. The team has made me feel very welcome and the banter is good. It is different to Leicester; slightly more relaxed but very enjoyable.”

2.Unfortunately injuries are a major part in any level of rugby, does this affect the way in which you train?

“Pre-hab is a big thing now and at the start of the season your weaknesses are indentified and then we have two sessions a week for specific stability work, for me I concentrate on shoulder stabilisation, lower limb and core exercises. Then we are monitored at different stages of the season.”

3.    Once you pick up an injury are there any tips for the younger generation on how to manage it?

“Always ask the physio or doctor what re-hab needs to be done, including any specific exercises and when to ice and rest etc. I try and do something different to take my mind off the injury such as play my guitar or depending on the injury I play golf.”

4.    What sort of training can be done with an injury?

“Always listen to the physio or doctor but there is always some form of training you can carry on with if it is an upper body injury you can concentrate on kicking or leg exercises etc or if it is lower body then you can work on passing and upper body strength.”

5.    Do you have to watch your diet when you are injured?

“You do in general need to take extra care when you are injured as you are not expending as much energy. Also take the right supplements and getting the correct vitamins will help with the recovery. I am lucky as I am skinny!!!!!!!”

6.    What injury advice can you give to any up and coming rugby stars out there?

“Don’t worry about becoming super strong or putting on lots of muscle bulk whilst you are injured, but concentrate on specific pre-hab training such as shoulder stability and core exercises.”