Gilmour relishes new start at Castleford

Castleford Tigers back rower Lee Gilmour is enjoying life at his new club, after moving from Huddersfield Giants in the close season.

Crucially, he is relishing the chance to play in the back row again, rather than as a prop.

“I think it was most important for me to get playing in my favoured position of second row,” he told Love Rugby League.

“At Huddersfield I was playing prop a lot, and I found it a bit of a tough task as the season went on.

“A change of scenery and a new set of lads is good, and obviously reuniting with Ian Millward is good.

“He’s a person with whom I’ve had a good relationship in the past, so I’m enjoying my rugby.

“Hopefully that will transfer onto the pitch.”

The 34-year-old knows that managing his body at the veteran stage of his career is vital for staying match fit.

“Obviously when you’ve got all those games under your belt, there’s certain niggles,” he explained.

“I have to do a bit more pre-hab and looking after myself, just making sure that I do the right things.

“That’s just part of being a rugby league player. You’ve just got to handle those niggles and make sure that you’re fit enough to get out on the pitch.”

While some athletes have been adopting practises such as yoga and pilates to help with core strength and flexibility, Gilmour and some of the Tigers have been opting for something a little less esoteric.

“We’ve done no yoga, but we have done something called ‘Jane Fonda’s,” he smiled.

“They work your glutes, or your bottom muscles. They were fun – look them up!”