On 19 April 2021, I entered recruit school as an elite athlete in Macolin, Biel.

Only 50 recruits from the 120 Swiss federations are selected each semester.

The elite sports recruit school system can be summarised as follows:

• three weeks of recruit school
• two weeks of Youth and Sport classes
• thirteen weeks as a professional athlete

During these eighteen weeks, we are taught basic military skills and given the best possible support to perform at our best in our respective sports.

Throughout our service, we receive input and follow-up on nutrition, physical preparation, mental coaching and communication.

For my part, I decided to seek support from the physical trainer and nutritionist in order to optimise my progress towards the top level.

My current weekly training schedule consists of:

• 3-4 strength training sessions
• 5 technical training sessions
• 2 massages

I have 12 weeks left in Macolin and I’m going to make the most of them to become as professional as possible before continuing my progress in Bern!

Thank you for your support.

Yann Orteu