NFLRUSH

ANTONIO GATES

Roberto Garza Antonio Gates Gary Baxter

NFLRUSH caught up with Antonio Gates, tight end for the San Diego Chargers, and asked him some questions about staying fit and how kids, like you, benefit from playing a sport. Here's what Antonio had to say:

NFLRUSH: How do you prepare for an upcoming season?

ANTONIO: Well, you have to think of your body as your corporation. You have to keep it fit and healthy. Everything I eat and drink affects my performance on the field. I always stay hydrated and I eat carbs before working out.

NFLRUSH: So, we heard that Training Camp is the most intense time in the NFL because it prepares you for where you are now, week 4 in the NFL season. What did you do at Training Camp?

ANTONIO: It's rough. Rough. We have two practices a day, one lifting session every day and I watch film in between. Being at camp is mentally and physically tough, but it's all part of the process. One thing I definitely do is drink tons of water and Gatorade® to keep my energy up.

NFLRUSH: Speaking of Gatorade®, do you happen to have a favorite flavor?

ANTONIO: Well, there are so many flavors. I have to say, I don't really have a favorite. I always stay hydrated and, honestly, I prefer to drink water.

NFLRUSH: Antonio, the PLAY 60 campaign wants kids to be active for 60 minutes a day. Do you think kids can PLAY 60?

ANTONIO: Oh, yeah. Kids should do anything they like to do. I think all kids should join something, some team that gets them active and gives them exercise. Kids can learn from being on a team -- it teaches you respect, leadership and teamwork.

NFLRUSH: You're a pro athlete now, but you played sports all the time when you were in school. In your opinion, how does sports help with school?

ANTONIO: I know that playing sports teaches discipline to kids. And, playing sports and training for a team helps you learn and think better.

How many pushups do you think Antonio can do? To find out the answer and how the first week of the season went for Antonio, check back soon for Part 2 of the NFLRUSH interview with Antonio Gates!