By IANS
London : Former Wales captain Gary Speed has revealed that regular yoga sessions are helping to extend his football career.
Bolton Wanderers' player-coach is looking to improve on a record 521 Premier League appearances in the new season.
And the 37-year-old has revealed how he is using all methods possible to wring extra mileage out of his ageing body.
"The changes since the Premier League began are breathtaking," he said in an interview with Sky TV.
"The game of football is the same but everything else has moved on. The biggest difference is the level of fitness and athleticism.
"Take injury prevention. I have been having yoga classes twice a week for the last three years.
"Once upon a time everybody would have laughed at that but it has stopped me having back problems that trouble older players."
The Premier League is heading into its 16th season and Speed has seen a massive shift in the landscape as a result of TV revenue.
He added: "I would be a hypocrite if I did not mention the money.
"It has attracted the best players, affecting not just contracts but transfer fees and every other aspect of the sport.
"The stadiums are another big change. When you see footage of old games it reminds you how much the builders have done.
"Grounds that seemed huge now look tiny in comparison."