Raheem Sterling is riding the wave of the future in order to prevent the breakdowns that inevitably come with age.
Sterling revealed Thursday he has started doing yoga in order to avoid muscle injures, according to the Telegraph. The 20-year-old Liverpool star is growing into his body and learning the ancient practice at the same time.
“I’ve started yoga but it is nothing like I thought it would be,” Sterling said. “They’ve got me doing press-ups and stuff like that — I thought it was more for meditation.”
Sterling has been one of Liverpool’s standout performers in the last 12 months, scoring nine goals and adding six assists in 2014-15 alone.
Some fear Sterling could suffer from burnout, having played so many games at a young age, but he has maintained his form this season with a mix of talent, focus and a well-timed, mid-season vacation.
Former Manchester United star Ryan Giggs and current Tottenham goalkeeper Brad Friedel credit yoga for helping extend their playing careers into their 40s. Other veteran players like Manchester City’s Frank Lampard also do yoga regularly.
Sterling, who currently is recovering from a foot injury, seems to be racing ahead of future trends — just as he does to opposing defenders.
