Yassine Cheuko, Lionel Messi’s bodyguard, has taken the internet by storm with his physical prowess. Cheuko, who is always spotted with the legendary footballer, took to Instagram to share his intense fitness regimen, which includes rigorous mixed martial arts (MMA) workouts.
Considering his profession requires him to be adept at combat, he can be seen doing a lot of bodyweight training, boxing, and more.
Let’s dive deep into the benefits of such rigorous training.
“This kind of body demands a multifaceted approach that integrates physical fitness, mental resilience, and dietary discipline,” said Dr Bhavana P, chief dietitian, Gleneagles Hospital, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad.
Rigorous training and combat fitness
It requires:
Functional strength training: Focus on compound movements, resistance training, and bodyweight exercises to enhance overall strength and agility.
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA): Combines striking and grappling techniques that build endurance, coordination, and reflexes.
Cardiovascular fitness: Essential for sustained performance during high-intensity routines. Activities like sprinting, interval training, and long-distance running are pivotal.
Flexibility and recovery: Yoga and stretching reduce injury risks and improve mobility.
Understanding fitness variability
Fitness differs significantly from person to person due to genetic predispositions, metabolic rates, and lifestyle choices, said Dr Bhavana.
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Protein plays a huge role (Photo: Freepik)
Body type: Ectomorphs may struggle to gain muscle mass, while mesomorphs build it more easily. Endomorphs may focus more on fat loss.
Individual goals: Fitness priorities — whether for combat readiness, aesthetics, or general health—dictate training styles.
Age and health: Age, hormonal balance, and pre-existing conditions affect progress and recovery.
Understanding these differences helps tailor fitness programs to optimise results for each individual.
The role of diet
Diet plays a critical role in building a body like Chueko’s:
Protein intake: Supports muscle repair and growth. Sources like lean meats, fish, eggs, and plant-based proteins are vital.
Carbohydrates: Provide the energy required for intense combat training. Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables ensure sustained energy release.
Healthy fats: Boost energy and aid in cellular recovery. Nuts, seeds, and fatty fish are excellent options.
Hydration: Adequate water intake is crucial for cellular function, recovery, and stamina.
Supplementation: Multivitamins, amino acids, and recovery supplements may support high-performance needs.
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DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.