The 2017 preseason began at the newly opened professional module of the George Helal Training Center in Vargem Grande. Along with tests led by physical trainers, both at the Performance Excellence Center and on the field, a series of exams were conducted to assess the clinical and physiological status of the squad upon their return to action.

Blood, urine, and body fat percentage tests were performed on each athlete. The goal is to individually adapt the program, taking into account the specific clinical and physiological needs of each player. Careful considerations range from nutrition to the type of exercise they should do during the first activities of the season.

Dr. Serafim Borges, a member of the Red-Black Medical Department, commented on the importance of these tests during the squad's return from the summer break. "These laboratory tests are part of the clinical and cardiological evaluations of the athletes for their pre-participation in 2017. These are routine exams, performed annually, that complement the cardiological and orthopedic evaluations, among others that occur throughout the season," he explained.

Even with a defined and regularly followed work routine during the break, the season requires a different type of preparation. Physiologist Felipe Olive commented on the adaptations that occur after analyzing the players' body fat percentages. "They're just returning after a month at home. Some did a little more activity, others a little less. There are the end-of-year celebrations, when the diet is different. They're deviating from their routine a bit, and that's normal," explained the physiologist.

Felipe then spoke specifically about the process of measuring these percentages.

"This bioimpedance measurement, which we perform with the InBody device, would be the initial stage. From that point on, we see who is above, and then we adjust their diet with the nutritionist and their work on the field. Then, we carry out periodic monitoring throughout the year, where the athletes are evaluated and monitored in this regard," he added.

Physiologist Alex Souto Maior, with extensive experience working with MMA athletes, has combined his past experience to excel in his role in soccer as well. Urine tests reveal specific data, the analysis of which is crucial after this thirty-day period of absence from the field.

Alex explains the specific function of this type of assessment.

"Urinalysis was added to the process today to evaluate some components associated with both inflammation and dehydration in athletes. Furthermore, we were able to observe whether some of them are undergoing bacterial processes through this analysis. This gives us greater physiological support for training," commented the physiologist. "This type of analysis will be performed after every game throughout the year. Typically, our post-game physiological assessments take place 48 hours after the end of the match. In addition to urine analysis, we monitor CK (creatine kinase) and thermographic monitoring. These tests are a valuable addition and, consequently, ensure that the athletes are always available to Professor Zé Ricardo. These tests are crucial precisely to ensure we can maintain high-level performance," he added.

Finally, Alex praised the work done by the CEP FLA professionals, who achieved impressive results in injury prevention among the squad last season. "The goal of the Center of Excellence in Performance is high performance with a low number of injuries, and within these biochemical controls, we had the lowest injury rate among the clubs in the Brazilian Championship Series A last year. This season, we intend to maintain this 'title,'" concluded the member of the red-and-black coaching staff.

The competence of the professionals working off the field is reflected on the field, raising the group's performance level and being a fundamental component in the fight for success in the upcoming season.

Those who are proud to be members make the team stronger and always have more Flamengo: discounts on tickets and pay-per-view, exclusive videos to stay up-to-date, advantages in official stores to get the jersey and other products, and much more. Click and join now!