Some of the world’s sexiest footballers, like Messi, Ronaldo, Kaka and Rooney have enviable physiques.
Dr Sandeep Kurale, physiotherapist of the Mahindra United football team, who has also trained the European team, AS Roma, shares his expertise on the workouts and diets that footballers use, which can help burn hundreds of calories.
Strength training
In order to prepare themselves for matches, footballers invest a lot of time in strength training. “Soccer players do intensive strength exercises, especially for their lower body — that includes hamstrings, calf muscles, groin and thigh,” explains Dr Sandeep, who has trained players like Daniele DeRossi.
Aerobic training
Since the players begin pre-season workouts after their off-season, they are made to improve their aerobic level. “The aerobic level involves the heart and lung strength, which involves both on-ground and off-the-ground training,” he explains.
Balance training
“Besides the circuit training that takes care of the cardio and respiratory endurance, much importance is given to recovery, which especially, quick recovery from match injuries,” says Dr Sandeep.
Inter-body coordination and balance training are also an important component of the players’ regimen and most of them jog or run at least 5 km a day.
Diet
Since the game consumes tremendous amounts of energy, adequate carbohydrates need to be consumed. But a strict diet also has to be maintained to prevent weight gain. Avoid alcohol and unhealthy fatty food. Instead, the diet must consist of chicken, fish, pasta, fruit and soup. To add the essential vitamins and minerals to their diet, players like Messi consume handfuls of nuts like pistachios. They detox with fresh fruit juice, which helps digestion and boosts immunity.