Barcelona medical department’s novel approach to track players’ physical condition – report | OneFootball

At a time when arch-rivals Real Madrid are struggling with physical shortcomings, Barcelona appear to have found a novel way of optimising their players’ health and physical approach.

Indeed, the Barcelona team has gone through transformational changes under new coach Hansi Flick. By far the biggest impact has been the way the team trains and rests.

Barcelona players wear special ring

While Flick’s coaching methods, which have a combination of authority and openness, has been well-documented, a recent report from Carlos Monfort of Jijantes has highlighted another key aspect of Barcelona’s physical approach this season.

As per the report, Barcelona players are wearing a special ring called the “Oura Ring”, which is capable of carrying out detailed analysis of a player’s sleep, physical condition and stress level.

The ring looks like any ordinary decorative ring, sporting a black colour. However, it is augmented with special technology, which allows Barcelona to monitor their players’ fitness.

Every Barcelona player is wearing the Oura Ring this season (Photo by MANAURE QUINTERO/AFP via Getty Images)

Each and every individual has been handed these rings and the data goes straight to Barcelona’s technical and medical staff.

The medical staff uses the information to notice any pattern that might suggest stress or injuries.

This explains why Barcelona have appeared so competent when it comes to managing their fitness heading into each and every game. This could, in fact, be a great example for other clubs to follow.

These ‘Oura Rings’, though, are not exclusive to Barcelona. Anyone wanting to observe their sleep pattern and physical health can purchase the product for just €400.

Personalities such as former Google CEO Larry Page, Steve Chen of YouTube, Hollywood actor Will Smith and even Barcelona president Joan Laporta have been observed wearing the Oura Ring.