How top athletes define fitness: unlocking the secrets behind performance
Explore the training secrets of top athletes, from intense cardio to strength routines and see how they reach peak performance in their respective sports.
Fitness takes many forms, each shaped by the unique demands of different sports and goals. Professional athletes from various disciplines illustrate how fitness is defined differently depending on the needs of their sport.
Despite these differences, what unites them is the drive to be as fit as possible, with their specific definition of fitness influenced by their performance requirements. From pole vaulting to skateboarding to MotoGP™, top athletes reveal that fitness is more than just physical – it’s a balance of speed, strength, mental resilience and versatility.
Mondo Duplantis: mastering speed, technique and precision
Mondo Duplantis: mastering speed, technique and precision
His focus on sprint training several times a week is a crucial component of his approach. Speed on the runway is essential, so Duplantis trains like a sprinter to gain that edge. In a dramatic showdown, he even outsprinted the 400m specialist Karsten Warholm. Yet, it’s not just about raw speed for Duplantis – his technical work is just as vital to be the fittest he can be.
Despite already being at the top of his game, Duplantis constantly refines his technique to raise the bar higher. His fitness regimen is a delicate balance of agility, strength and precision, showing that even at the pinnacle of success, there’s always room for improvement.
Marc Márquez: cross-training to keep it fun and effective
MotoGP™ star Marc Márquez proves that fitness isn’t just about physical endurance, but also about staying mentally fresh. In his off-season training, Márquez prioritises variety to keep things exciting. «Avoid routine and have fun» is his mantra, reflecting his belief that when training becomes repetitive, both the body and mind disengage.
Márquez’s fitness routine is a blend of cycling, running, off-road motorcycle training and gym work, offering a cross-training approach that helps him maintain a well-rounded level of fitness. This variety ensures that no single area of his fitness suffers, whether it’s cardiovascular endurance or muscle strength. His emphasis on fun and versatility serves as a reminder that fitness doesn’t have to be monotonous. The key to longevity in any sport – or even in daily life – is keeping the body and mind engaged with different activities.
