Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott undergoes specialized physical preparation to ensure peak performance and prevent injuries.
Prescott’s injury history highlights the importance of taking care of his body and relying on the support of his team.
Prescott collaborates with personal therapist Luke Miller to address specific areas of concern and enhance recovery and preparation for games.
Dak Prescott, the quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, is undergoing a specialized physical preparation process to ensure he is ready to play each week. This collaborative effort between Prescott, the Cowboys’ staff, his personal therapist Luke Miller, and other trainers and coaches has allowed him to reach the peak performance of his career. Despite a series of injuries in recent years, Prescott has learned the importance of taking care of his body and relying on the support of his “village.” As the Cowboys prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles in a crucial game, Prescott’s physical readiness could be a determining factor if their paths cross again in the playoffs.
Prescott’s injury history includes a dislocated and fractured right ankle, a strained lat muscle, a calf injury, left shoulder surgery, and a right thumb surgery. These setbacks have taught him the value of his body and the importance of his support system in maintaining his performance. Prescott recognizes the practices of athletes like LeBron James and Tom Brady, who invest significant resources in their physical well-being to prolong their careers at a high level. He is determined to leave no stone unturned in his own preparation.
After a game on Sunday, Prescott’s recovery begins with a lower-body lift and a recovery run on Monday. His preparation is detailed and comprehensive, focusing on both physical and mental aspects. Prescott arrives at the Cowboys’ training facility before 6:30 a.m. and undergoes consultations with his therapists and trainers, discussing any hits or soreness he may have experienced during the game. They design a rehabilitation plan for the week based on his feedback.
Prescott’s personal therapist, Luke Miller, plays a crucial role in his preparation. Miller addresses specific areas of concern, such as Prescott’s ankle, shoulder, and thumb-rip strength. They work together on these areas, using different techniques like stretching, massage, and blood flow restriction to enhance recovery and prepare for the upcoming game. Miller’s expertise in understanding the body and its stressors has proven invaluable to Prescott’s well-being.
Prescott’s collaboration with Miller began in 2021 when he sought additional rehab from his ankle surgery. Initially hesitant to add a full-time therapist outside of the Cowboys, Prescott saw immediate results and decided to continue working with Miller. When he suffered a latissimus strain, Miller’s involvement became even more critical. With Miller’s help, Prescott compressed his recovery timeline and was able to start the season on time.
Miller’s presence at the Cowboys’ facility was initially subject to approval, but now he works with Prescott on a daily basis, providing treatment throughout the week. Tuesdays serve as a relatively passive rest day for Prescott, where he focuses on recovery and preparing for the rest of the week. The intensity gradually increases as the week progresses, with Wednesdays and Thursdays involving upper-body lifts, stretching, treatments, and intensive workouts to ensure Prescott is ready for game day. They pay special attention to maintaining his ankle strength, shoulder health, and thumb-grip strength.
Prescott’s favorite day is Friday, as it signifies the completion of practice and media obligations. The team goes through a rest and recovery program called STAA to prepare for the upcoming game. Miller and Prescott review their progress and address any additional needs, such as stretching or breathing exercises. Saturday is dedicated to neural charge and more intense workouts to ensure that Prescott’s body is ready for Sunday’s game. Miller accompanies Prescott to away games and continues treatment at his hotel.
On game day, Prescott incorporates quick lifts and stretching routines hours before kickoff. The focus is on activating his central nervous system and preparing his body to move quickly during the game. Miller’s work ends at this point, as he watches the game from Prescott’s suite. Regardless of the outcome, Prescott knows he has the support of his “village” to keep him physically prepared.
Dak Prescott’s commitment to his physical well-being and his collaboration with a team of experts have allowed him to reach new heights in his career. The comprehensive and personalized approach to his preparation has become an indispensable part of his routine. Prescott’s dedication to leaving no stone unturned in his physical readiness could be a significant factor in the Cowboys’ success.