Absolute satisfaction in the FC Barcelona coaching staff after knowing and verifying the results that their players threw in the first day of training after a stoppage of almost two months due to the coronavirus pandemic. The truth is that the physical trainers had prepared the coaches for a devastating scenario: the aftermath, after almost eight weeks of very limited activity, left a wide margin for uncertainty. In the best cases, it was evaluated that the player would lose between 65 to 70% of his optimal conditions to compete.
However, it appears that the players have done their homework for the duration of the confinement. and that the guidelines that have followed the work have managed to avoid a significant deterioration. As has had access to some of the parameters and results that have been obtained from the staff after the first days in the Ciutat Esportiva. To start, the weight has only increased on average between 0.5 to 1.3 kilos (the limit was 2 kilos) as well as the body fat index has increased from 0.3 to 0.7% – the bar was at 1% -. These two measurable values were already obtained in tests carried out on Wednesday, taking advantage of the LaLiga PCR test.
During Friday the players returned to field activity in an individual session that lasted just over an hour. Encased in a GPS vest, they carried out speed tests, rhythm changes, eccentric and isometric exercises, and continuous running, among others. The first results reflect that the players are in a more than acceptable state under the circumstances: decreased aerobic result (40%), loss of repeated effort capacity (50%), loss of tendon property (30%) and loss of strength and muscle elasticity (45%).
TAll these factors indicate that the Barcelona squad is currently between 40 to 45% of its ideal capacity. That is to say, it has yet to recover almost 55% during the next month to be able to compete with guarantees. Taking into account that the preparers calculated with results around 30 or 35%, at best, the horizon is certainly hopeful. In fact, the priority objective of this phase of individual training is for the staff to reach at least 50% of their optimal state, before giving way to reduced group sessions.
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