We caught up with Super League Leeds Rhinos star prop Adam Cuthbertson at our Jacuzzi Leeds showroom. Having recently suffered a game-related injury, Adam has been working hard to get himself back on the pitch and luckily we’ve been here to help his recovery along the way!

Originally from Australia, we were keen to hear how differently the game is played down under and how Adam makes sure that he keeps a little bit of Oz with him here in the UK.

 What age did you start playing rugby?

Adam: I started playing rugby professionally when I was 18 but actually started kicking the ball around when I was as young as 6!

What is your favourite thing about the sport?

Adam:  I can’t think of anything I don’t love about playing rugby, it’s hard at times but so rewarding. Rugby has always been my favourite hobby so to get paid for doing what I love is a huge bonus.

How does rugby league differ in the UK?

Adam:  Rugby league in the UK is more about the attack and the running style, whereas in Australia its more defence orientated. I think it’s more exciting to play in the English league.

How do you find the training? Is it demanding and do you enjoy it?

Adam:  Training is very demanding, especially at the start of the season before we’re actually playing any games.  We have quite a lengthy pre-season, which is all about being as strong and fit as you possibly can be before the season starts.  It’s especially difficult if you get an injury during the season, which is what I’m going through at the moment.

What is a typical game day like for you?

Adam:  The majority of our games are in the evening so I try not to do too much beforehand. I tend to get up and go for a big walk, have breakfast and lunch before taking a rest in the afternoon.  It’s pretty easy going on a typical game day but that’s mainly because when 8pm comes round and you play a big game, you’ve got so much adrenaline that you can’t sleep for the rest of the night which is why I make up for it during the day!

How do you relax after the game has finished?

Adam:  It’s usually about 11pm when I get home after a game so there’s not much to do except relax, watch a movie, eat a lot and just generally recover from the match.

What do you like most about your Jacuzzi hot tub?

Adam:  I’ve got my Jacuzzi hot tub in the garden and I love it! In Australia, most of my life was spent by the ocean or in the pool so it’s quite a shock coming to Leeds and living so far from any water.  For me, having the tub in the garden takes me one-step closer back to normality.

In terms of the aspect of recovery it’s just great.  When I come home and I’m sore and tired and just want to get off my feet, it’s perfect as it takes all the weight and pressure off your limbs and muscles.

How often do you use your Jacuzzi hot tub?

Adam:  Nearly every night! Even if I’m not sore it’s just nice to have time out and listen to some music.

What is your greatest achievement to date?

Adam:  Being a professional sports player, my greatest achievement to date has got to be winning the treble last year, the grand final, league leaders shield and winning the challenge cup; all of that happening in one year was incredible!