Cristiano Ronaldo's health secrets revealed: From black toenails to cryotherapy

Discover the football superstar's unconventional secrets to staying fit and healthy.

Cristiano Ronaldo, renowned for his enduring career in football spanning over two decades, continues to defy age and maintain peak performance with a regimen that includes some surprising health tactics.

Despite being 39 years old, Ronaldo remains committed to rigorous training, playing for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia and the Portuguese national team. 

His longevity is attributed to a disciplined fitness routine and unconventional health practices that set him apart.

Ronaldo's dietary habits are meticulous; he opts for six smaller meals a day, favouring high-protein foods like chicken and avocado, complemented by fish, quinoa, and fresh fruits. 

His Portuguese teammates revealed his favourite dish, Bacalhau a Bras, highlighting his dedication to a balanced diet.

Known for his aversion to sugary drinks, Ronaldo famously removed Coca-Cola bottles during Euro 2020, urging others to "Drink water!" 

He also practices unique methods like painting his toenails black, a tactic adopted by athletes to prevent fungal infections.

Ronaldo's sleep routine is equally strategic; he follows a polyphasic sleep pattern with 90-minute naps, enhancing alertness and recovery, a technique he adopted during his Real Madrid days under sport sleep expert Nick Littlehales.

Investing in his physical recovery, Ronaldo installed a £50,000 cryotherapy chamber at his home, a method favoured by athletes worldwide for reducing inflammation and enhancing circulation.

In addition to club and national team training, Ronaldo dedicates up to four extra hours daily to personal workouts, including swimming, Pilates, and intense gym sessions focused on cardio and strength training.