“Lighter and stronger” – Newcastle star’s staff explain reasons for impressive physical records

Newcastle United star Bruno Guimarães is today highlighted in a quite interesting story from the Brazilian media.

As the midfielder statistically ran 10 marathons during his Premier League campaign, Globo Esporte features a piece about his work to get in such good shape.

It’s pointed out that Guimarães took part in 50 matches Newcastle played last season, staying out of only one, which is quite an impressive record.

The outlet then features an interview with Felipe Neves, who’s his fitness coach and he gave some details about his preparations.

“There are players and there are athletes. Bruno is an athlete. He is extremely dedicated, fulfils what the professionals around him demand and sacrifices a lot of his personal time to do so. This includes a gruelling training routine, daily recovery and strict nutritional monitoring. All the food he eats on a daily basis is weighed, and he doesn’t drink alcohol. Bruno always wants to do everything in the best possible way and always with excellence.”

Neves also pointed out the reasons it’s so impressive for a midfielder to take part in so many matches.

“He was 14th in terms of minutes played in the league, which contributes to the fact that he’s always at the coach’s disposal, which means he runs more. His position and role in the team also contribute. He’s that player who plays from box to box, he’s always moving around, he’s really everywhere on the pitch the whole game.”

Globo Esporte also spoke to Eduardo Rauen, who’s a nutritionist and sports medicine specialist, and was also hired by Guimarães to help him with his fitness.

“We started working out before the World Cup in Qatar. Bruno arrived with 13% body fat and went to the World Cup with 3.9%. With a little more muscle, a lot less fat, a little lighter and stronger. So he gained more speed and was able to cover more distance.”

Bruno Guimarães is currently away with the Brazilian national team, where he’s taking part preparations for the Copa America. That means he may not get much time off this summer, and will soon be back at Newcastle for another very busy season.