STOURBRIDGE-based fitness specialist Versaclimber UK has teamed up with England rugby ace James Haskell after the player chose the machine for his training and rehabilitation, following a recent operation.

The company has supplied the England and London Wasps flanker with a Versaclimber Sportsmedical, which he already uses regularly as part of his training and recovery regime and which can be adapted into a Sport model for full training as he recovers.

The 28-year-old was injured for around six months with tendonitis in both knees and was unable to play for five weeks with an inflamed bursa, before having a three-hour operation in June.

“My recovery is expected to last three months, so I need to still be able to train as much as I can in that time,” said Mr Haskell.

“Because of the uniqueness of the machine, I am able to target either my upper body, just my legs or both together, seated and standing. It’s also great for getting used to moving again and gently putting weight on my knees.

“Its main use, though, is to get me gasping for air. Lots of machines are hard work but there is no mistaking the fact that some of the toughest sportspeople use a Versaclimber in their training and it’s because it is so effective as a whole body workout.”

Versaclimber UK managing director Neil Kelford said the company was looking forward to working with the player in the coming months He explained: “We are very happy that James chose to use the Versaclimber in his training and we’re really looking forward to doing some projects in the future with him. As one of the world’s best, he needs to stay on top form and the Sportsmedical will go a long way towards helping him achieve that.”