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A cubist interpretation of Christian McCaffrey’s unorthodox offseason training regimen, highlighting the dynamic movements and unconventional preparation that have made the 49ers star one of the NFL’s most dedicated players.San Francisco Today
Christian McCaffrey, the star running back for the San Francisco 49ers, has been sharing details on his unconventional offseason training regimen. McCaffrey has embraced a variety of intense exercises, including animal movements and crawling drills, to build strength, balance, and agility. The 49ers plan to reduce McCaffrey’s workload in 2026 after a heavy usage in 2025, but the running back remains dedicated to his meticulous approach to preparation and improvement.
Why it matters
McCaffrey’s commitment to unorthodox training methods reflects his relentless drive to gain a competitive edge. While many players rely on natural talent or standard drills, McCaffrey actively seeks out marginal gains through innovative preparation. This dedication has helped him overcome injuries and remain productive, even as he faces increased defensive attention.
The details
McCaffrey has been sharing videos on social media showcasing his intense offseason training, which includes exercises like crawling and other “animal movements.” These drills, borrowed from UFC fighters, focus on building strength, balance, and agility through full range of motion and flexibility work. McCaffrey says these unconventional exercises help him prepare his joints and body to move in different angles and planes of motion that are crucial for his playing style.
McCaffrey faced a heavy workload in the 2025 season, starting just 4 games.In 2026, the 49ers plan to reduce McCaffrey’s workload to keep him fresh.
The players
Christian McCaffrey
The star running back for the San Francisco 49ers, known for his relentless dedication to preparation and improvement.
San Francisco 49ers
The NFL team that employs Christian McCaffrey and plans to reduce his workload in the 2026 season.
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What they’re saying
“Those are called animal movements. I actually got these from a bunch of UFC fighters way back in the day, and it’s a cool way to do a lot of strength through full range of motion and flexibility exercises to kind of prep your joints in weird angles that you’re not used to doing. And so, those are really challenging, really fun.”
— Christian McCaffrey, San Francisco 49ers Running Back
What’s next
The 49ers will monitor McCaffrey’s workload in the 2026 season to keep him fresh and healthy after a heavy usage in 2025.
The takeaway
Christian McCaffrey’s dedication to unorthodox training methods, including animal movements and crawling drills, demonstrates his relentless pursuit of improvement. This approach has helped him overcome injuries and remain productive, even as he faces increased defensive attention. The 49ers’ plan to reduce his workload in 2026 reflects their commitment to preserving their star running back’s long-term health and performance.