Staying Sharp: Sundowns Stars Share Their Festive Fitness Plans

Staying Sharp:

Sundowns Stars Share Their Festive Fitness Plans

Author: Erica Mathye

Staying active during the festive season is not always easy — and yes, that includes professional footballers too. After a demanding 2025 packed with fixtures and travel, Mamelodi Sundowns players finally get a chance to catch their breath. But while the holidays bring family time, laughter and tempting festive treats, one thing remains non-negotiable: staying fit ahead of the season restart.

Miguel Reisinho and Katlego ‘Tsiki’ Ntsabeleng recently shared how they plan to enjoy the festive break while ensuring they return refreshed, focused and ready for the second half of the season.

Katlego Ntsabeleng

For Daveyton-born Katlego ‘Tsiki’ Ntsabeleng, the festive season means home comforts — the smell of braaied meat, family gatherings and plenty of laughter.

“There is a lot of food during the festive season. I usually stick to my diet, but Christmas and New Year? That’s the exception!” he laughed.

Despite the indulgence, the 27-year old versatile player remains disciplined.

“I will relax for the first few days and mentally reset. After about a week, it is back to work — gym sessions, running, cardio and leg strength. No vacations planned, just home and family.”

Miguel Reisinho

Fresh off his first months in South Africa, Miguel Reisinho is heading back home to Porto, Portugal, for some well-earned family time. The 26-year-old midfielder — already a fan favourite among Yellow Nation — is especially excited about one thing: his mother’s cooking.

“I cannot wait to see my mom, dad and friends. I am still adjusting to South African food — especially pap — so a home-cooked Portuguese meal by my mama will make me very happy. Bacalhau à Brás is my favourite (a traditional Portuguese dish made with salt cod, potatoes and eggs).”

But even with family time on the agenda, Miguel knows the work does not stop completely.

“The first two days are for rest and catching up. After that, it is back to maintaining my fitness so the return to training is smooth.”

More Sundowns Stars on Staying Festive Fit

The commitment does not stop there. Several Sundowns stars also shared how they plan to stay sharp over the break:

Asa Rabalao:
“Daily home workouts and clean, balanced meals.”
Munahse Mugwara:
“Running sessions, strength work, and recovery-focused nutrition.”
Kholosa Biyana:
“High-intensity workouts paired with nutritious meals.”
Themba Zwane:
“Endurance runs, core work, and healthy eating.”
Marcelo Allende:
“Resistance training, functional drills, and balanced nutrition.”
Asekho Tiwani:
“Agility drills, strength sessions, and performance-focused meals.”
Grant Kekana:
“Still in recovery — focusing on strengthening, conditioning, and maintenance to return in January at peak level.”

Even during the festive season, the Sundowns standard remains the same. Rest, reset and return stronger — because excellence never takes a holiday.

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