As the 2026 World Cup approaches, Major League Soccer (MLS) stars are adopting unique training regimens during the offseason. This strategy aims to maintain their fitness levels and preparation for the upcoming tournament.
Tim Ream’s Offseason Approach
Tim Ream, a prominent player for Charlotte FC, has years of experience managing his offseason training effectively. At 38, he is familiar with the challenges of balancing rest and conditioning.
Ream emphasizes the importance of not allowing fitness levels to decline significantly. After playing around 45 matches for both club and country in a year, he understands the toll that travel and competition can take.
- Rest and Recovery: Ream believes in taking a brief 10-day break to recuperate, but quickly returns to training.
- Age Impact: He notes that older athletes may require less downtime to maintain their conditioning.
Training Trends Among MLS Players
Alongside veterans like Ream, younger players are also prioritizing fitness during their offseason. Ethan Sonis, a trainer who works with players such as Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao, plans to collaborate with 20 to 30 athletes this winter. His goal is to help them stay in top shape despite the colder months.
Another MLS player, Luna, shares a similar mindset. He views this offseason as a critical preparation phase, often referring to it as his “preseason to the preseason.” Luna aims to manage his training effectively while integrating hard work into his routine.
Loan Options for Players
In the past, many top players sought loan opportunities during the offseason to keep themselves competitive. However, this trend has dwindled in recent years. While some players may still explore this option, it is becoming increasingly uncommon in the current landscape of MLS.
As these athletes navigate their offseasons, their emphasis on fitness and strategic training highlights their commitment to peak performance leading into the 2026 World Cup.
