Phil Vickery takes up competitive bodybuilding at 50 after England rugby career

England Rugby World Cup winner Phil Vickery has begun competing in bodybuilding at the age of 50, taking the stage at the Physical Culture Show in Hull earlier this month. In an interview published by BBC Sport, the former prop described the competition as a new outlet for the discipline and preparation that shaped his rugby career.

Watch the highlights: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BW1naa-KJq0

Vickery said the nerves backstage recalled the build-up to major rugby matches, including doubts about whether he belonged in the competition. His preparation helped him confront those feelings. The move began with an effort to improve his fitness before a challenge from his friend Lee Powell, with physical trainer Dave Campbell supporting his transition to bodybuilding.

He performed to World in Union, the anthem associated with the Rugby World Cup. Vickery was part of England's victorious squad in Australia in 2003 and represented his country 73 times, alongside five appearances for the British and Irish Lions. His club career included spells with Gloucester and Wasps, while his activities beyond rugby have included business and winning Celebrity MasterChef.

According to the BBC interview, Vickery weighed about 99kg when he competed in Hull, compared with a playing weight that he said ranged from 118kg to 135kg. His current routine involves three or four weight-training sessions each week, daily walks and a protein-rich diet. He hopes to enter further shows, although he does not expect to become a leading bodybuilder.

Vickery also spoke about the difficulty of finding a reason to train after leaving professional rugby, when exercise had previously been directed towards playing. He said the gym provides an important space for his mental and physical wellbeing. The challenge of completing a structured plan, rather than trying to recreate his former playing career, has become central to his approach.

The BBC reported that Vickery has a diagnosis of probable chronic traumatic encephalopathy, or CTE, and is involved in continuing litigation. He discussed managing his mental health alongside his physical limitations. His wider message was not that others should take up bodybuilding, but that making a plan and attempting a new challenge could give skills developed in sport a different purpose.