Real Madrid is employing cutting-edge technology to improve player fitness levels, donning mysterious blue masks during training sessions. The Cosmed K5 masks are designed to assess a player's aerobic and anaerobic thresholds, as well as their current power output.
These high-tech masks provide valuable insights into players' physical conditioning, allowing coaches to tailor workloads accordingly. The data gathered can be compared to individual baselines or other players in the same position, helping staff to identify areas where players need extra fitness and conditioning work.
The technology was introduced under the guidance of Antonio Pintus, Real Madrid's performance manager, who oversees the players' physical conditioning. The masks are worn during short 15-20 minute stress tests, providing a more efficient alternative to traditional VO2 max testing.
In addition to improving player fitness levels, the use of these masks also reduces the risk of soft-tissue injuries such as tight calves. By wearing the masks in training, players do not lose valuable time and still receive valuable fitness information.
This innovative approach is particularly relevant with crucial La Liga fixtures against Valencia and Real Sociedad, as well as Champions League knockout ties against Benfica approaching. With the season entering a decisive phase, ensuring that the squad is operating at peak physical levels will be crucial for Real Madrid's success.
The technology has sparked curiosity among fans and players alike, with several high-profile players, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, sharing photos of themselves wearing the masks on social media. The masks have become an integral part of Real Madrid's training sessions, providing a unique insight into player fitness levels and helping to drive improvement in performance.
These high-tech masks provide valuable insights into players' physical conditioning, allowing coaches to tailor workloads accordingly. The data gathered can be compared to individual baselines or other players in the same position, helping staff to identify areas where players need extra fitness and conditioning work.
The technology was introduced under the guidance of Antonio Pintus, Real Madrid's performance manager, who oversees the players' physical conditioning. The masks are worn during short 15-20 minute stress tests, providing a more efficient alternative to traditional VO2 max testing.
In addition to improving player fitness levels, the use of these masks also reduces the risk of soft-tissue injuries such as tight calves. By wearing the masks in training, players do not lose valuable time and still receive valuable fitness information.
This innovative approach is particularly relevant with crucial La Liga fixtures against Valencia and Real Sociedad, as well as Champions League knockout ties against Benfica approaching. With the season entering a decisive phase, ensuring that the squad is operating at peak physical levels will be crucial for Real Madrid's success.
The technology has sparked curiosity among fans and players alike, with several high-profile players, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, sharing photos of themselves wearing the masks on social media. The masks have become an integral part of Real Madrid's training sessions, providing a unique insight into player fitness levels and helping to drive improvement in performance.