West Ham coach Nuno Espírito Santo has instructed winger Adama Traoré to limit heavy weightlifting at the club’s Rush Green training base to protect the player’s natural athletic profile. Traoré, 30, has long been known for his extraordinary muscular physique, a trait the coach described as largely genetic.
Traoré joined West Ham United F.C. on a permanent deal from Fulham in January, reuniting with Nuno, who managed him previously at Wolverhampton Wanderers. The coach stressed that the winger’s training should prioritize speed, agility, and recovery over building additional muscle mass, which could compromise his explosiveness on the pitch.
“Adama’s body is unique. The focus is not on making him stronger in the gym but on keeping him fast and fit,” Nuno explained. “He does not need the kind of strength development that younger players require. His programme is tailored to prevent injuries and maintain his natural power.”
This approach contrasts sharply with West Ham’s academy players, many of whom spend extensive time in the gym to build foundational strength. Nuno highlighted that training regimens at the club are highly individualized, reflecting the varied physical profiles of senior and youth players alike.
Since joining West Ham, Traoré has been primarily used off the bench, featuring in matches against Chelsea, Burnley, Manchester United, and Liverpool. He had previously made 15 appearances for Fulham before completing his move in the January transfer window.
West Ham’s winter recruitment drive also included signings such as Pablo Felipe, Taty Castellanos, Axel Disasi, and Keiber Lamadrid. Some new arrivals have already made a noticeable impact on the squad, while others continue to recover from injuries. The club’s strategy indicates a careful balance between immediate contributions and long-term squad development.
Traoré’s limited weight training is part of a broader philosophy that prioritizes functional performance, ensuring players retain their distinctive attributes while reducing the risk of injury. Observers note that this tailored approach could maximize the winger’s influence in high-intensity games, where speed and agility are decisive.
