Do Or Diet

Burke offers food for thought as he shapes up to go distance at Killie

- Alison McConnell

Chris Burke reckons plenty of Zs and fruit and veg have been the key to prolonging his career.

The Kilmarnock veteran agreed a one-year contract extension with the Rugby Park club earlier this month and has no plans to ease into retirement any time soon.

The 36-year-old insists it’s his willingness to embrace dietary changes and pay attention to his body that has enabled him to sustain his playing days.

“I’ve changed a lot of things,” said Burke. “My diet is different.

“I make my own shakes for breakfast with probably two portions of veg and one fruit, then my lunch tends to be a vegan or vegetarian option.

“I’ll maybe have a more normal dinner because I don’t want to cut out protein and meat entirely.

“But I also try to make sure I am sleeping more than I used to.

“That might mean one night I’m in my bed for 9pm so that I know I am fully rested and have enough energy as I look towards playing on a Saturday.

“Small things like just an extra half hour or 45-minute rest make a huge difference.