EPL 2016/17: Antonio Conte jokes that his touchline antics could affect his health
Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is well known for his antics on the touchline and wild celebrations, which have caused debate, especially after the victory against Manchester United.
However, the Italian is not paying much attention to those critics but admitted in a relaxed manner that he is worried about his heart while celebrating and geeing up his team from the sidelines.
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In Friday’s press conference, Conte joked that he would consider using a heart monitor during games to check his heart rate when on the touchline.
Conte admits his hyperactivity in the technical area might be putting his heart at risk and hence implemented a new diet system involving a balance of protein, fat and carbohydrates along with strict fitness standards.
“I am worried about this,” said Conte. “I know there's a bit of a risk. For this reason, I try to run and maintain a good physical form, and I might put on a GPS monitor to control my heart.”
The Italian spoke about his fitness routine, “I pay great attention to my food. Always, I prefer healthy food and sometimes I have time to do fitness when I'm not too tired. I run for 30 or 40 minutes and change the rhythm of my run. I don't go too strong. I ran a lot in my career, so I am in credit.”
The League Managers Association have offered their help to all managers with a 120-page booklet containing points on how to deal with the pressure of professional level football and keep one’s health in check.
The LMA have tips in the pamphlet for the managers to eat broccoli, cauliflower, avoid alcohol and rest for 20 minutes in the afternoon with a nap.
Chelsea team diet
Conte also spoke about the foods that he consumes and the diet of his players, “When I stay with my family, the spaghetti is very good,” said Conte. “I like pasta, but I try to avoid it because a lot of carbohydrates is not good. I prefer to eat protein with vegetables and fruit. Sometimes I eat Nutella, and it's not good.”
“Before pre-season, we explained to the players about the right balance between carbohydrates, protein and fat. I do not ban something, only try to transfer the right idea about what to eat.”
“I started to eat well in my career and felt the benefit. When I started a new career as a coach, I wanted to bring this idea to my players and I, think it's a good solution.”
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Conte will hope that the Chelsea players will be motivated by his passion on the sidelines and get one over Southampton in the Premier League on Sunday.