In a unique offseason collaboration, Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson and San Francisco 49ers star Christian McCaffrey have developed a competitive bond that could enhance their performances on the field. Over the course of nearly a month in June and July 2023, the two athletes trained together in the Los Angeles area, focusing on workouts and recovery techniques that McCaffrey has become renowned for in the league.
The partnership was not just about training; it involved sharing insights and strategies. Robinson expressed enthusiasm about the experience, stating, “It was great, me and him just giving each other so many tips and just feeding off the knowledge from each other on the field.” This collaborative effort allowed them to learn from one another, solidifying a friendship that extends beyond competition.
Robinson, now 23, is coming off a breakout season in his second year in the NFL. He ranked fourth in the league with 1,887 yards from scrimmage, and third in rushing yards with 1,456, scoring 14 rushing touchdowns. Meanwhile, McCaffrey, aged 29, faced injury challenges last season but has a distinguished career, having led the league in scrimmage yards twice and surpassing 1,000 rushing yards in four seasons.
Innovative Recovery Techniques
A significant aspect of their training regimen involved advanced recovery techniques. Robinson emphasized the importance of recovery, noting how McCaffrey prioritizes feeling fully prepared before every workout. “It’s only right to want to make sure your body is in top-tier shape before you go on the field,” Robinson said, highlighting McCaffrey’s commitment to maintaining peak physical condition.
Part of their recovery routine included a new form of red-light therapy in an elevation chamber known as Stratosphere ATC. Developed by Bobby Williams, a former Hollywood stuntman, and guided by Dr. Bruce Johnson of the Mayo Clinic, this innovative method allows athletes to train at high altitudes without leaving the ground. Robinson described the experience, stating, “We were 18,000 feet in the air, but we were in a machine. It was just very good for my body.”
Williams explained that training in this chamber can boost the production of erythropoietin (EPO) and improve lung capacity, contributing to enhanced athletic performance. “Every single cell is expanding and contracting, and it’s amazing,” he added, underscoring the benefits of this revolutionary approach to recovery.
A Supportive Rivalry
The relationship between Robinson and McCaffrey embodies a spirit of healthy competition. Williams noted how both players were eager to challenge each other during workouts, yet remained supportive. “They were just trying to outdo each other on the power and the velocity of the training,” he said. “But all in all, they were there to support each other.”
McCaffrey referred to Robinson as “a special guy, special person, and a special player,” expressing enthusiasm about their time together. “I was super fired-up that he joined us for a little bit, and I don’t have any bad things to say about him,” he remarked, highlighting the camaraderie that has developed between them.
As they prepare for the upcoming season, both players are set to face each other on October 19, 2023, during Week 7 of the NFL season in a matchup that promises to be exciting for fans. Despite being rivals on the field, Robinson appreciates the bond they have formed. “I think it’s just really cool having McCaffrey be a brother to me, as well, and so I can learn all the cool things that he has done on the field, and vice versa,” he said.
The collaboration between Robinson and McCaffrey not only showcases their dedication to the sport but also reflects the evolving nature of training and recovery in professional football. As they continue to push each other to new heights, fans can expect to see the impact of their partnership in the upcoming NFL season.
