We won't be too far off if we say Cristiano Ronaldo defies the very concept of ageing. He may or may not be your choice of GOAT, but there's no denying the fact that he's the reason several other world renowned athletes keep trying to better themselves even at their zenith - on-field nemesis and fellow-GOAT Lionel Messi would agree.The Portugal vs Spain round 16 match earlier today, knocked CR7's country out of the FIFA series, spelling an end to what was Ronaldo's last World Cup. The footballer hasn't specified if he will be bowing out of international football all together - as was the case with Brazil's Neymar who announced his retirement from the format following Brazil's 2-1 defeat against Norway. But seeing as a very trying yet successful
phase of his football career has now come to a close, a look at what has kept CR7 ageless and genetics-defying over the years definitely demands a deep dive.
A Healthy Mind
One thing's for sure - any athlete worth their game, and a legacy that outlasts them needs to have a calm and collected mind. It's simply a non-negotiable, seen as they carry the weight of their team and country's expectations every time they step foot on the field.Ronaldo for one, has no days off, simply because for decades now, he has maintained a healthy balance between spending each day optimising his body and then decompressing the pressure by spending time with his family - the latter is a non-negotiable for him. Off the field, he is a through and through family man, spending most of his free time with fiance Georgina Rodriguez and their 5 kids.
Six Clean Plates a Day...
...keeps the doctor away? The route to clean eating isn't as complicated as most people make it out to be, though mindfulness is a non-negotiable here. Ronaldo's mornings reportedly begins with eggs and coffee and the footballer is a big fan of avocados. The rest of the day, his meals - split across 6 balanced plates - carry a healthy mix of lean proteins, fresh foods and unprocessed items. Fish for one, is a real favourite with him right across swordfish, sea bass, and gilthead bream. Add to that low-fat meats, fruits, vegetables, and whole-grain carbohydrates and you have for yourself an eating plan that keeps energy levels stable right through the day as well as optimises muscle recovery.
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A Demanding Physical Routine
There's a heavy emphasis on cardiovascular work and functional exercises when it comes to
CR7's gym hours. He has built his stellar endurance over the years via training in running, rowing and treadmill work. Weights, isometric work and functional routines supplement this routine. Regularly switching routines up keeps things fresh, though apparently the athlete pays special emphasis to his abs, both on waking, as well as before going to sleep.
An Even More Specific Recovery Routine
This one's potentially the most interesting facet of the Ronaldo routine. As per a Bein Sports report, instead of sleeping for 8 hours straight, the GOAT takes five 90 minute naps over the course of the day - called the polyphasic sleeping method. The sleeping model developed by specialist Nick Littlehales maintains the sanctity of the body's natural sleep cycle while maximising holistic rest and recovery.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, nutritional or fitness advice. These diet, training and recovery routines are designed and monitored by qualified coaches, nutritionists and medical professionals to suit the individual needs of a professional athlete. Any attempt to replicate or modify your own diet, exercise or lifestyle based on this article is done at your own risk. Times Now is not responsible for any injury, illness or adverse effects that may result from following the practices discussed. Always consult a qualified healthcare or fitness professional before making significant changes to your diet, exercise or wellness routine.
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