“I stay in shape after 50 years by running between 8 and 10 kilometers 2-3 days a week”

Luís Figo, one of many greatest names in European soccer, has at all times connected nice significance to bodily care, each throughout his time as knowledgeable and after hanging up his boots.

Past his expertise on the pitch, the previous participant has made routine, train and vitamin two elementary pillars to remain in form over time.

With retirement, he has additionally been capable of take pleasure in some pleasures that had been extra restricted throughout his sporting profession. “I drink wine day by day. Champagne and wine are the indulgences that I now have extra freedom to take pleasure in. I wish to eat nicely and drink nicely,” he confessed in 2019.

In an interview for Males’s Well being, Figo detailed how he has tailored his way of life to take care of good bodily situation at 53 years outdated. His method, as he defined, is straightforward and versatile: he trains within the gymnasium between two and thrice per week, adjusting the depth to his day by day routine and, particularly, to these moments “once I go somewhat overboard with food and drinks.”

To this power work he additionally provides steady operating periods. “It’s sufficient for me to exit for a run between eight and ten kilometers round two or thrice per week within the gymnasium after which I alternate someday for arms, one other for the decrease trunk, one other for legs, abdominals…”, he stated.

Past the gymnasium, the previous soccer participant has discovered a method to keep lively and match in numerous disciplines.

His favourite actions embody biking, horse using, long-distance strolling, browsing and senior soccer in promotional competitions. Nonetheless, if there may be one sport that has gained prominence in his life after retirement, it’s golf.

“I adore it as a result of it’s a very aggressive sport and I’ve been aggressive all my life. It took me out of my consolation zone as a result of I began enjoying once I retired, however I prefer it since you compete in opposition to your self and in opposition to the sphere,” he defined in one other interview.

When it comes to food, Figo is committed to balance without having to completely renounce your personal tastes. Although he follows a diet based on vegetables, fruits, legumes, fish and baked meat, he also recognizes that he allows himself certain concessions. “As always, what I like within those parameters,” he noted.

Of course, there is a line that is not usually crossed. “The only thing I don’t eat is fried foods. I try to eat as healthy as possible: a lot of fish, grilled meats, vegetables and fruits,” he explained in an interview with GQ, in which he even left room for humor: “I have always said that I will invent a pill that will allow us to no longer need to train or make sacrifices. Come on, it would be the best invention in the world.”

No big secrets

For the Portuguese, exercise not only fulfills an aesthetic function, but also a preventive one. “The gym helps me be as I want. In addition, at a certain age, preventing diseases is important to maintain good health. And I like to train so that I can eat and drink what I want one day at dinners with friends. I am very gourmet, I like truffles, caviar, cheese and champagne,” he acknowledged.

In the field of image and personal care, however, it is much simpler. “I don’t take care of myself at all. I don’t have secrets nor do I use cosmetics. The years go by for everyone,” he stated in 2023.

Far from sophisticated routines, Figo claims to find well-being in much more basic habits: “Eat and sleep well. A weekend on the beach enjoying the local cuisine of the place where you are and visiting an art exhibition.”

Far from miracle formulas or complex methods, the former footballer defends a philosophy based on perseverance and balance. “There are no secrets in life. Consistency, exercise and eating well. Oh, and not having a lot of stress. Quality of life is important,” he summarized in his interview with Men’s Health.

A vision that also connects with the way in which he interprets his personal and professional career. “I am grateful for everything that football has given me, in line with what I have worked for, because nothing has fallen from the sky. Without my dedication and talent I would not have gotten where I am, although luck and the confidence of the coaches influence. They are the ones who help you have a story,” he reflected.

In their case, this philosophy translates into a stable routine in which physical and mental care go hand in hand. Beyond training or diet, Figo focuses on reducing stress and enjoying a good quality of life, understanding that it is precisely this balance that makes the difference in the long term.