FCBARCELONA.CAT

26.03.2007 13:28

Training focused on fitness

The first team returned to action after a two-day break. Although the international players are still missing, this session was the first of many to plan for next weekend’s Deportivo match. The main focus was on strength and fitness.

The session started at 11 o’clock in the morning at La Masia, but only involved the eleven men who are not away on international duty. Thus Frank Rijkaard and Johan Neeskens, along with fitness experts Paco Seirul•lo and Albert Roca were able to work with Valdés, Jorquera, Sylvinho, Belletti, Giuly, Edmílson, Motta, Saviola, Ezquerro, Messi and Oleguer.

Work on aerobic strength

One of the main objectives was the squad’s aerobic strength, with the focus on areas of recuperation, resistance and strength. It was to be a tough one and a half hour session designed to thoroughly put the players through their paces.

Circuit based training

After the usual warm-up drills, Rijkaard’s players tackled three circuits designed by Seirul•lo and Roca to work on aerobic elements. The players formed pairs for these exercises based on traditional one-twos around cones and other obstacles. The final circuit, which was particularly strength-focused, involved shots on goals defended by Víctor Valdés and Albert Jorquera. When not joining in with these exercises, the goalkeepers worked out with Juan Carlos Unzué.

Short matches to end

After the circuits, the players were put into a more typical match situation, with a game using just one half of the pitch. Saviola, Messi, Silvinho, Oleguer and Jorquera played in yellow and, with Unzué and Roca alternating the role as the extra man, while Motta, Giuly, Edmilson, Belletti, Ezquerro and Valdés played in blue. Following the game, the session ended with the usual stretching exercises.