NATIONALrugby team stalwart Fairuz AB Rahman believes self-motivation and discipline are key elements to staying fit while the nation is under Movement Control Order (MCO) due to Covid-19.
Fairuz said the MCO does not affect him as he normally trains on his own away from the national squad, many of whom are based in the Klang Valley, as he lives and works in Kedah.
The 35-year-old, who has been a staple of the national team over the years, has shown no signs of slowing down in recent seasons.
“We are not able to train together as a team, but that is something I am actually used to because I am based in Kedah,” said Fairuz, who helped Sabah reach the Agong’s Cup final last year.
“The (national team) strength and conditioning coach has given us individual training plans.
“What is important is to keep ourselves motivated and strictly follow the plan.
“Players should also communicate with their teammates to share experiences.
“From a nutritional aspect, it is pretty standard — drink a lot of water and take Vitamins C and E as well as minerals such as zinc.”
Fairuz, who has captained the national squad on several occasions, is currently on a different kind of national duty.
While the majority of Malaysians are at home with their families during MCO, Fairuz, an assistant environment health officer, has to report for duty daily at the Kota Setar District Health Office.
“I have to come in and assist with Covid-19 cases.
“In general, I work office hours, but am otherwise on call for duty,” added Fairuz, who has also started to move into coaching and is part of the national Under-18 setup.