Batsman Lauren Winfield has provided an insight into the fitness work put in behind the scenes as England women prepare for the ODI series against South Africa.
The 25-year-old went through a series of weight exercises during a gym session, but insists the hard yards will be worth it in the long run.
“We’ve just done a little bit of strength today,” she told ecb.co.uk.
“We’ve had a good few days, good intensity doing our skills sessions and our fielding sessions, so today is all about just getting in and lifting some weights and making sure that we’re maintaining the stuff that we’ve built on in England.
“It’s massively important if you want a long career to stay on the park as much as possible.
“This is the kind of stuff that goes on behind the scenes that is just as important as the stuff that goes on in front of everyone’s eyes.”
Winfield hopes that the gym sessions will proliong her international career.
“I think as well if you’ve had an injury you buy into the one percenters a little bit more, and realise the importance of every aspect of finess and make sure it’s nailed on,” she added.
“I quite like the trap-bar deadlift – you tend to favour the things you’re better at – chin-ups not so much, but it’s important to hit every area.”
Source: ECB