Stephen Curry Adopts New Training Regimen to Manage Workload for Warriors
At 38, Stephen Curry is altering his training regimen with the Golden State Warriors to play at least 65 games this NBA season and peak for the playoffs.
Stephen Curry's New Approach
At 38 years old and following a lengthy right knee injury last season, Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors recognizes that maintaining elite performance requires a shift in his lifelong habits. In an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle, the star guard detailed significant adjustments in his preparation for the new NBA season, aiming to play in at least 65 of the 82 regular-season games and reach peak condition for the crucial months ahead.
"If you ask me if my timing is already perfect, or if all my tools are at my disposal, then probably not. But it is coming," Curry admitted after a preseason game against the Los Angeles Lakers in Las Vegas. "I prefer to play 65 or 70 games when I look at the big picture." During the game, he played 22 minutes, made three three-pointers, but also missed several relatively easy shots near the basket as part of a modified preparation process.
Modified Training Routine
These changes are reflected in his playing time. During the previous preseason, Curry logged 15, 16, 27, and 30 minutes in his first four games, compared to 13, 14, 14, and 23 minutes this year. Head coach Steve Kerr acknowledged that the guard is not yet in peak physical shape, but the objective is for him to peak in February, March, and April. Curry, who has reached the 65-game threshold only twice in the last seven seasons, believes the target is attainable.
"You know what's weird? It's because of the awards rule," Curry said, referring to the NBA requirement that players must participate in 65 games to be eligible for major individual honors. "It's just a logical number. It means you were available almost all year long."
Preparing for the Long Haul
The new program began back in April when Curry returned for six games at the end of the previous campaign. Since then, he has been working with personal trainer Brandon Payne, fitness specialist Carl Bergstrom, and Rick Celebrini, the Warriors' vice president of player health and performance. Following a rest period, he returned to summer training with significantly lower intensity and volume than usual, utilizing an underwater treadmill to maintain aerobic conditioning without joint strain.
This careful management ensures that Golden State can stay competitive while preparing its key players for the stretch run, leaning on Curry's revised workload to sustain championship aspirations.
