In front of a packed Wankhade crowd against the Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders pacer Mitchell Starc came out with a match-winning performance of 4 for 33. Not just the local crowd, Starc also overcame the intense Mumbai heat and shined like a superstar for KKR, helping them win at the Wankhede for the first time in 12 seasons.
Starc has always had fitness issues right through his career. Be it the ankle, toe or even the calf, the tall pacer hasn’t been lucky when it comes to injuries. Yet, he has been able to play at the highest level for over a decade now, thanks largely to his fitness regimen.
The Aussie pacer follows a disciplined plan when it comes to fitness and diet. A quick sneak peak into Mitchell Starc’s fitness and diet plan, to stay fit at the top level.
1. Isometric Warm Ups
Isometric exercises primarily emphasize holding muscles in a static position, aiding in the preparation of the legs for dynamic movements essential for quick bowling and fast running.
2. Lower Body Training
Starc emphasizes lower-body training, acknowledging the critical role of leg strength in generating the pace necessary for his bowling prowess.
3. Cardio
Mitchell Starc’s cardio regimen is aimed at reducing excess body fat while simultaneously enhancing his cardiovascular endurance.
4. Strength Training
Starc favors strength training exercises such as barbell cleans, trap bar deadlifts, split jerks, and kettlebell swings, which contribute to powerful deliveries and overall body strengthening.
5. Ice Bath Sessions
To ensure complete recovery, Mitchell Starc incorporates ice baths into his post-game recovery routine. These baths effectively alleviate muscle soreness, providing him with instant relief.
6. Adequate Sleep
Starc’s workout regimen also prioritizes rest ensuring he gets adequate sleep. A consistent sleep schedule supports his recovery process and contributes to his overall well-being.
7. Diet Intake
Starc’s diet is rich in essential nutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. He opts for foods such as eggs, plant-based protein sources, sweet potatoes, avocado, and almond milk as staples in his daily nutrition plan.
8. Natural Supplements
Starc favors sources abundant in fish oil, vitamin D, glutamine, creatine, and Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs) for his nutritional needs.
Starc’s discipline towards his regular workouts and diets has helped him to compete at the highest level. After a slow start, Starc is coming into his own for the KKR in IPL 2024. Great sign for the Knights, not so for the batters for the rest of the competition.
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye.
