The England and Chelsea footballer on Indian takeaways, walking her dogs and always being 100%
England and Chelsea football star Millie Bright
What did you do at your last training session?
I actually played at the Emirates Stadium yesterday! The day before we trained on the field and did a power primer, which are gymnastics exercises that get you going and get you ready for a game.
What was the last meal you ate?
We stayed at the hotel before the game and I had a vegan chickpea curry, some chicken, rice and vegetables and oat apple crumble for dessert.
What’s your guilty pleasure when you’re having a nutritional blowout day?
I love an Indian takeaway. Chicken Tikka is my favorite.
What is the healthiest app on your phone?
I have an app called Daily Ab Workout that gives you ideas for different workouts. We train a lot and it gets boring if we do the same exercises.
What is the most expensive piece of fitness equipment you own?
I have a Wattbike which we bought in lockdown to keep us going.
What is the best motivational advice you’ve ever received?
My grandpa said: “If you don’t do it 100%, then don’t do it at all.” That’s something I live every day, be it in football or off the field.
What was your most embarrassing moment during training?
I think if you miss or double hit a ball, it’s not great. But my teammates do more embarrassing things than me. Erin Cuthbert is so clumsy – she’s the one who kicks the corner flag instead of the ball.
What’s better for clearing your head: meditation or boxing?
When I’m really frustrated, I go for a run. Or take the dogs for a walk to a quiet place in the hills. For me, going outdoors is the right thing to do. I have two dogs, a miniature sausage and a French bulldog. Emma [Hayes, Chelsea manager] attaches great importance to taking care of yourself physically and mentally, so we are taught meditation and yoga in the club anyway.
Who was your sports hero growing up?
Outside of football it was Jessica Ennis as we are both from Sheffield. This is because of what she has done for herself on and off the track and her confidence to overcome barriers.
What are your pre and post workout snacks?
I usually eat breakfast at home, but for a quick snack I grab Whitworth SHOTS – it’s healthy, cuts out the sugar and is a little pick-me-up before my session. I also take it after training as it is important to absorb these nutrients.
What was your biggest sporting failure and what did you learn from it?
Not bringing home any major trophies with England. You learn something different with every opportunity, but you have to keep going in those moments, not let yourself get down and do better next time.
Can you recommend an inspirational or motivational podcast?
Daily brightness [the brand Millie has set up with England team-mate Rachel Daly] I have a podcast coming out soon so I would highly recommend people give that a listen!
Chelsea and England footballer Millie Bright works with Whitworths SHOTs on their Go-To Goodness campaign. Whitworths SHOTS are now fully recyclable and available in a variety of flavor combinations, low in calories and perfect for on the go. Find them in leading supermarkets, £2 for a pack of four.