We are delighted to share the eleventh episode of our Women in Sport Podcast, where we discuss developments, initiatives, and issues relating to women in sports and the associated legal implications.
In this episode, Partner Emma Bartlett and Associate Solicitor Mitchell Blythe are joined by an exceptional guest, Ruth “Ruthless” Nelson – three‑time world champion kickboxer, multiple European and British titleholder, and five‑time Team GB representative. Ruth also recently made her on‑screen debut in the MMA feature film Tramp.
In this Women in Sport podcast, Ruth Nelson, Emma and Mitchell discuss:
- Ruth’s remarkable path into combat sports, from taking up kickboxing as a young mother to becoming one of Britain’s most formidable female fighters.
- The evolution of women’s participation in combat sports, including the growing visibility of female athletes and the influence of icons such as Ronda Rousey.
- The realities of competing at elite level while working full‑time, challenging traditional ideas of what it means to be a “professional athlete”.
- Ruth’s experience training with male‑dominated MMA environments, building confidence, and forming lasting relationships within the martial arts community.
- The importance of representation and role models, including the impact of Ruth’s own achievements on younger athletes — and even her own son, who later competed for Team GB.
- Barriers faced by women in combat sports, from gender bias and under‑recognition to physiological challenges such as training and competing while managing the menstrual cycle.
- Ruth’s involvement in the feature film Tramp, portraying a fighter navigating motherhood, physical change and resilience — and how the story reflects the real lived experiences of many women in sport.
Listen to the podcast here.
You can also listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or SoundCloud.
We hope you enjoy our latest episode! Please get in touch by emailing us at [email protected] or [email protected] if you would like any information on the topics discussed or if you would like to suggest a story for us to cover in a future episode.
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