A switch to home cooking has made flying Waratahs winger Drew Mitchell a lighter man, but a weightier worry for opposing teams.

The 27-year-old Wallabies back has been in outstanding form this season and was a standout performer in the Waratahs' 31-17 loss to the Blues in Auckland last Saturday.

Mitchell is the joint second highest try scorer in the 15-team Super Rugby tournament with six.

He has caught the eye with his high work rate coming off his wing and has been one of the form wingers of the competition.

He attributed his strong form this season to a lifestyle change which included shedding some kilos.

"What I was eating probably wasn't quite what it could have been last year and I'm living on my own and take out is probably a little bit too convenient for me," Mitchell said.

"I came to a decision to make sure I'm cooking for myself and eating a little bit healthier and I've trimmed a little bit.

"A few things have come off for me and I'm feeling good.

"I think work rate is something I certainly tried to address this year, not for any real conscious decision.

"I'm carrying a few kilos less than I have been and it's helped me get around the field a bit more than I have been in previous seasons."

Mitchell revealed Waratahs back Kurtley Beale had been given a new nickname by his team mates after signing a contract with the Melbourne Rebels.

"He's been nicknamed Hilary Swank because he's now the Million Dollar Baby," Mitchell laughed.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP