England Red Roses captain Sarah Hunter has praised the 'Inner Warrior' camps set up by England Rugby, which help give women the opportunity to learn new skills and techniques in the sport. 

The camps are set to take place over the next month at different locations across the country to help engage with women and to increase participation standards. 

Several of the clubs are now offering up to five sessions for free to help women learn new skills, have fun and make friends along the way.

Hunter said: "It can often be daunting to try a new sport or get the motivation needed to go along to the gym for the first time. That’s why Warrior Camps are the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself and as a result, you can have fun and get fit all at the same time! Warm-up activities, learning passing and catching skills, and fitness drills are combined to create these unique and exciting sessions."

As a result of the camps, more than 18,000 women have taken part in rugby for the first time. 

Rugby Development director Steve Grainger at the RFU added: "England Rugby’s Inner Warrior programme is providing women and girls across the country with a chance to come and give the sport a go for free. This gives an opportunity for women to get fit and have some fun, playing rugby under the guidance of our expert Community Coaches, without it costing a penny."

England Rugby have also introduced the 'Inner Warrior Series' for new and developing women's teams to compete against each other. 61 teams have already signed up to be a part of the new series.