NFLRUSH

Roberto Garza

Roberto Garza Antonio Gates Gary Baxter

The other day, NFLRUSH spoke to Roberto Garza, offensive guard for the Chicago Bears and asked him some questions about his in-season workout habits, what he eats before and during games and what workout advice he has for kids. Here's what Roberto had to say:

NFLRUSH: So, Roberto, you have a couple of days off now, what're you doing with your time?

ROBERTO: Well, we got home around midnight on Sunday (from the road game), so I was tired. I did work out across these two days off.

NFLRUSH: What's your workout routine like now that you're in the middle of the season?

ROBERTO: I have to definitely work out enough to maintain my strength, but also be careful to not over-do it. You know, football is demanding, so you have to focus on working out and keeping in shape, but not doing too much and hurting yourself. That's why I split my workouts up between two days.

NFLRUSH: Is that your normal routine now, every week?

ROBERTO: Usually, but sometimes I have to alter my workout. The most important thing is that I have to stay healthy and be able to compete.

NFLRUSH: Do you have any advice for kids about not overworking themselves when they're working out?

ROBERTO: All kids have to listen to their own bodies. Their body will tell them if they're doing too much and if you're overtired or your muscles hurt, that is a big sign to slow down or stop. Your body recovers quicker when you are younger, so kids should be smart and take advantage of that.

NFLRUSH: And what advice do you have for kids on dealing with hard coaches?

ROBERTO: Well, coaches push you all the time, but kids have to know that if they do too much - workout too hard - that can really hinder you.

NFLRUSH: Roberto, about eating healthy -I'm sure you have specific eating habits during the season. What do you eat during the week? And, how about before a game?

ROBERTO: Let's see, before the game, I eat high-carb meals. I need the fuel for the long game. I eat pasta and bread to store energy for the third and fourth quarters. I never eat any fried food or greasy meals (before a game) because it'll just sit in my stomach and slow me down. The day before a game, I have meal plans set up. I eat salad, whole wheat pasta with chicken, shrimp and bread. I have to put the right type of fuel in my body to perform well.

NFLRUSH: Do you eat anything at halftime during a game, Roberto?

ROBERTO: At halftime we usually eat sport beans that are electrolytes. I also take 'carb gels' that go straight into your body. I always hydrate and I drink lots so I don't cramp up- lots of Gatorade®.

How important is sleep for an NFL player? Who pays for dinner when the massive men of the O-line go out to eat? What schoolyard game does Roberto like to play on the weekend? Find out the answers to these questions and more in part 6 of the NFLRUSH's interview with Roberto Garza.