GARNET MACKINDER, 28

Rugby player for Wasps and Nomads 7s

I’d probably rate my body a six or seven out of 10. It’s not perfect, but that’s okay – even though I’m not in killer shape, I’m still in shape. I know I could get those abs back if I wanted to, but I’m just not that motivated. I don’t see my body as a temple, I’d rather go out and enjoy dinner with my friends. I know I don’t need a six-pack or thigh gap to be happy.

My figure is one of a power athlete. I’m broader and taller than the others, but that suits the position I play as wing or fast prop in sevens, where you need strength, power and speed. Personally, I find muscles attractive, and you need them to be a good athlete. Hopefully, people will see this shoot and understand that.

Rugby is a very bodyinclusive sport. The women who play are very positive about their bodies. If someone is bigger, it’s for a reason – to do a job on the pitch. There’s always going to be ignorance and prejudice with women’s sport, but you learn not to listen to the negativity. Gender goes out the window when you’re on the pitch. There’s no need to show femininity. Rugby is an aggressive game, but once you’re off that pitch, you can go back to being the girl who wears dresses and heels. Bruises are a good thing. They mean that I’ve worked hard at the weekend and made some big hits to get these war wounds. You can’t be too precious about your body in rugby – you have to be willing to stick your head anywhere. What makes top-level players the best is that they have no regard for their bodies whatsoever. Even if there’s someone twice their size running at them, there’s never any hesitation about going for the tackle. They never worry about how it’s going to hurt.