- Former England prop Phil Vickery competed in a PCA bodybuilding event in Hull at the age of 50, sharing photos on Instagram
- Vickery credited the gym with helping him more mentally than physically, describing the process as one where 'you can't fake your way onto stage'
- Several prominent sports figures, including former England teammates, responded to Vickery's transformation online
Former England prop Phil Vickery has left fans and former teammates in disbelief after stepping onto a bodybuilding stage at the age of 50, competing at a PCA event in Hull and sharing photos of the results on Instagram.
Source: Getty Images
Vickery, who earned the nickname "Raging Bull" during his playing career, credited the experience with reshaping not just his physique but his outlook. Writing alongside the images, he described the mental rewards of the process as surpassing the physical gains.
Vickery on the Mental Challenge of Competing
"The gym and lifting weights have helped me physically but mentally more than anything," Vickery wrote.
"I love the discipline, the challenge, the atmosphere, the camaraderie and the simple fact it's hard work, and you can't fake your way onto stage, you can't hide behind anyone or anything. Your physique is the reflection of your work."
Beyond the philosophical reflection, Vickery said he aimed to improve on previous attempts and become the best version of himself. He also publicly acknowledged his coach, Dave Campbell, for guidance and support throughout his preparation.
Take a look at the transformation in the pictures below.
Former England Stars React to Vickery's Transformation
The post drew responses from several recognisable names in sport. Former England scrum-half Matt Dawson expressed admiration
Former England back-row James Haskell responded with four fire emojis, while Australian snooker star Neil Robertson weighed in with praise for the discipline involved.
"Awesome stuff mate. Nothing healthier for the mind than a goal with discipline," Robertson wrote.
Vickery earned 71 caps for England and was part of the squad that won the 2003 Rugby World Cup. His decision to compete in bodybuilding at 50 marks a striking chapter in his post-rugby life, one that has resonated far beyond the sport.
Source: Briefly News
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