Henry Pollock Amazes England Coaches with Incredible Squat in the Gym
Rugby NewsFriday, 27 February 2026 at 11:29
Henry Pollock is turning heads not just on the pitch, but in the gym – with outrageous numbers that have even left seasoned coaches speechless.
“It’s been crazy and I’m just trying to enjoy every moment of it, take it all in, and just enjoy rugby and enjoy the moment,” Pollock said.
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“I’ve got a great family unit around me and I always look to them and friends whenever I’m on my own or in a dark space.”
He’s fully focused on his development now, saying: “I’m just working hard and giving everything to my rugby now, no distractions. I’m trying to put more muscle on, working on attack and defence, and across my whole game. I’m definitely not the finished article, so there’s definitely more to come.”
“My goal is clear,” he added. “I’m here to play Test rugby, that’s what I’m pushing for, but I’m also trying to enjoy the journey and just take in all the moments that come with being a Lion.”
Pollock’s obsession with self-improvement is no secret. Those who’ve worked closely with him all speak to the same thing: a relentless drive to improve and an unmatched intensity in training.
Jason Sivil, Northampton’s strength and conditioning coach, has seen that first-hand. “He always wants more, always wants another challenge. All Henry wants to do is push himself further and harder,” said Sivil.
That mentality is backed up by eye-popping gym numbers. Pollock has bulked up to over 100kg, can squat 230kg for three reps, and bench press 140kg.
His aerobic engine is equally terrifying – he recently smashed the Bronco test in just 4 minutes and 25 seconds, a time that would make even the fittest internationals take notice.
With that combination of raw power, elite fitness, and an unshakeable mindset, it’s no wonder coaches and fans alike are tipping Pollock as one of the next big things in Test rugby. And if you ask him, he’s only just getting started.
Henry Pollock facts: 15 things you didn’t know about the England star
1. His gym stats are just plain ridiculous
Henry Pollock can squat a monstrous 230kg for three reps and bench 140kg for two. Oh, and he hits 10 metres per second at full tilt. Not bad for a flanker, right?
2. He's staying put – for now
Despite serious interest from rival clubs, Pollock penned a multi-year deal with Northampton Saints back in December. The Prem champs weren’t letting this star go anywhere.
3. He exploded onto the international stage
Pollock announced himself in style, scoring two tries on debut in England’s emphatic 68–14 demolition of Wales in Cardiff during the 2025 Six Nations.
4. The youngest Lion of 2025
Pollock is the youngest member of the 2025 British & Irish Lions squad, and he’s been handed a very special job: looking after BIL the Lion teddy – a tradition he takes over from Louis Rees-Zammit.
5. He’s got the most unique try celebrations in rugby
Pollock doesn't just score – he puts on a show. Against Leinster, he checked his pulse after dotting down – a tribute to Manchester United’s Diego Dalot. In another match, he went full NBA mode with a basketball-style jump shot using the rugby ball. Iconic stuff.
6. Born to compete
Born 14 January 2005 in Banbury, Oxfordshire, Pollock has always had a fire in his belly. “I wanted to be the best at… probably everything,” he told The Telegraph.
7. Sporting greatness runs in the family
Pollock’s family is built for elite sport. His mum, Hester, was a national-level triathlete, and his dad, John, also has a strong sporting background. His sister, Zoe, competes as a 400m hurdler at the University of Georgia, and he has one brother, Angus. Safe to say the competitive streak runs deep in the Pollock household.
8. He started out as a scrum-half – until he got too gobby
Pollock’s first rugby position? Scrum-half. But a coach moved him after deciding he talked too much: “You’ve got a big mouth, we’ll put you at seven.” The rest is history.
9. A Saint since his early teens
He’s been part of the Northampton Saints set-up since under-13s and signed his first pro deal in 2023. A one-club man so far – and a key part of their future.
10. Made his mark in the Premiership and Europe
Pollock made his Prem debut in November 2023 against Leicester Tigers, followed by his Champions Cup debutagainst Castres in December 2024.
11. Dominated the U20s
During the 2024 Six Nations U20s, Pollock picked up three Player of the Match awards and was later crowned Player of the Tournament. Total domination.
12. He stepped up for England A
Pollock continued to impress with England A, earning Player of the Match in their win over Australia A in November 2024.
13. He could’ve played for Scotland
Though now firmly an England man, Pollock was also eligible for Scotland, with both parents born north of the border.
14. He’s balancing rugby and uni life
He’s not just smashing tackles – he’s hitting the books too. Pollock is currently studying part-time for a Sports Management degree at Loughborough University.
15. His rugby idols are a who’s who of back-row greats
Growing up, Pollock looked up to Michael Hooper and Richie McCaw. Closer to home, former Saints legends Courtney Lawes and Teimana Harrison also shaped his game.
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