Sunil Chhetri’s name is synonymous with football in India. The former captain of the Indian football is back from retirement to strengthen the Indian team for March internationals. His fitness regime at the age of 40 is an inspiration for many Indian athletes.
Also read: https://thesportzplanet.com/sunil-chhetri-retires-career-in-numbers-records-achievements/
Did you know the 40-year-old is third on the list, just behind football stalwarts, Messi and Ronaldo when it comes to top goal scorers in the world. Chhetri has scored 94 goals in 150 international games. The Indian legend gives a lot into his fitness and could give any youngster a run for his money. Let us take a look at what his fitness routine looks like.
Sunil Chhetri’s Fitness Routine
In football, you don’t have breaks like in cricket. You have to keep running for the full 90 minutes. It’s tough for players to stay fit, but the Indian football captain makes sure he hits the gym every day to stay in shape.
In an interview with Mans World India, Chhetri said, “I love doing speed training drills, which is an important aspect of my game, and high-intensity workouts. There are also two major requirements for football. I train six days a week. Taking a day off allows your body to heal, as your muscles need to cool off.”
Chhetri enjoys strengthening his quadriceps muscles, and he also pays attention to his hamstrings, abs, and shoulders. Besides his gym workouts, he likes cycling, which has not only improved his leg muscles but also boosted his stamina.
Chettri loves swimming. He so far has been regularly hitting the pool which helps them to rejuvenate and recover.
Sunil Chhetri Fitness: Diet Plan
For athletes, a proper diet is crucial, and Chhetri ensures he eats well to stay fit. He begins his day by drinking a bottle of water right after waking up. This helps flush toxins from his body and keeps him hydrated.
Breakfast
Before training, Chhetri eats a meal that includes oatmeal with nuts, boiled eggs, and fresh juice in the morning. Then, about an hour after his workout, he has a big breakfast. This includes brown bread, broccoli, chickpeas, sushi, black olives, tuna fish, and red meat.
Lunch
For lunch, Chhetri has a plate of green vegetables and boiled veggies along with either fish or chicken steak.
Dinner
Chhetri keeps his dinner simple with rotis, dal, a bowl of vegetables, and either chicken, fish, or cottage cheese. Before bed, he has a protein shake.
On cheat days, he treats himself to spaghetti carbonara or biriyani. And on weekends, he enjoys pizzas and burgers. His all-time favorite dish is his mom’s mutton curry.
Sunil Chhetri Fitness Tips
“It is very important to wake up early in the morning to start your day with great energy. Sound sleep for at least 7 hours a day is a must,” Chhetri revealed in an interview with TOI.
“Mornings are a time when you should keep your mind free and not overthink. The mind should be easy and at peace,” he added. Chhetri advised his fans to stay positive in life and try to indulge in some physical activity. “Go for a run, walk, or jog. Stay connected to your loved ones, they will be your greatest strengths.”
The Sportz Planet Desk,
Atharva Shetye.
