Under the microscope
CAN YOU RUN UP THE STAIRS?
I SHOULD think so. During the [rugby] season, I do three weight sessions a week in the gym and four practice sessions on the pitch. In my downtime, I play golf with friends. I have an 18 handicap — I wish I could be better, but it takes time, which I don’t have.
GET YOUR FIVE-A-DAY?
ABSOLUTELY! I have to put the best fuel into my body to get the best out of it. Breakfast is four eggs and some rye bread with a NutriBullet drink of protein powder and vegetables. Roast chicken is a favourite for dinner. Luckily my wife Camilla [Kerslake] is a good cook — I’m a much better pot-washer! I’m 6ft 2in and approximately 16 st.
ANY VICES?
I HAVE a huge sweet tooth — puddings and pick ’n’ mix are my weaknesses.
POP ANY PILLS?
POST-TRAINING, we take a cocktail of supplements — including multivitamins and zinc — to help with muscle recovery.
WORST ILLNESS OR INJURY?
I’VE broken numerous bones and, 11 years ago, I couldn’t play for ten months after I damaged my knee. But my worst struggle has been with dyslexia. I was diagnosed aged ten and really struggled in the classroom — I couldn’t understand why things weren’t sinking in. Now, I challenge myself to go to events and read off an Autocue to hundreds of people.
ANY FAMILY AILMENTS?
BOTH my grandad and father died of heart attacks. I was only five when my dad, Alan, an architect, passed away aged 40. It was devastating. I had already started playing mini tots rugby, which helped me burn off some of my pent-up energy. I go for regular heart checks, look after myself and hope for the best.
COPE WELL WITH PAIN?
OK. I’m generally pretty sore for a couple of days after a game.
EVER BEEN DEPRESSED?
NO, I’M a deep thinker with a positive outlook.
HANGOVER CURE?
A DAY on the sofa, broccoli and some coconut water. I’m keen on lager tops — nothing too wild.
WHAT KEEPS YOU AWAKE?
I TRAVEL so much that I’m used to sleeping anywhere.
BIGGEST PHOBIA?
I’M NOT a fan of sharks — but I don’t suppose many people are!
LIKE TO LIVE FOR EVER?
IF MY loved ones weren’t around with me, there’d be no point.
CHRIS tells his story at the Made By dyslexia Global summit — visit facebook.com/madebydyslexia