Back to basics: Madrid stars don oxygen masks as Pintus cranks up training
Real Madrid players return to training with specialized oxygen masks as fitness coach Antonio Pintus conducts physical tests during lighter fixture schedule.
Real Madrid’s squad returned to Valdebebas with fitness guru Antonio Pintus putting them through their paces with his trademark oxygen masks, as the club looks to capitalize on a less congested fixture list over the next fortnight.
Pintus’ special methods
The Italian fitness coach has been using these specialized training masks throughout his career, allowing him to gather precise data on each player’s physical condition. These aren’t your bog-standard face coverings either - they’re proper sophisticated bits of kit that:
- Simulate high-altitude training conditions (between 910m and 5,500m above sea level)
- Regulate oxygen intake through three interchangeable valves (two for inhalation, one for exhalation)
- Provide individualized data to tailor specific training regimens
- Replicate the benefits of training in extreme conditions without leaving Madrid
The players might look like something from a sci-fi film when wearing them, but there’s serious method to the madness. With the schedule easing up slightly, Álvaro Arbeloa’s coaching staff are seizing the opportunity to focus on both tactical and physical improvements.
Injury updates
Not everyone was donning the space-age headgear, mind. Antonio Rüdiger trained separately from the main group, though he’s still expected to be available for the upcoming Valencia clash at Mestalla.
Better news came in the form of Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has rejoined full training and participated in Pintus’ physical tests. The England international appears to be winning his race to be fit for the weekend.
Ferland Mendy also completed the session without any apparent issues, giving Arbeloa another defensive option as Los Blancos prepare for their trip to the east coast.
With this breathing apparatus giving the Madrid coaching staff the full Adam and Eve on player fitness, the squad should be in top nick for the challenges ahead.