A day in the life of Shafik Kiwanuka

Africa heavyweight contender Shafik Kiwanuka lives a tight and heavy schedule.

The pugilist follows a demanding regiment when preparing for the ring and his November 29 fight with Zimbabwean Thamsanqa Dube has pushed him to the limits.

Here's a brief life-in-day look at the talented fighter.

_____________________________

 

Early bird (4:00 am)

Kiwanuka is up by 4:00 am and on the road by 4:30 am. This is the day's first workout and normally he runs for about an hour and a half, warming up his body for the long day ahead.

 

_____________________________

 

Fruity meal (7:00 am)

Kiwanuka has his breakfast at 7:00 am and in addition to the normal milk and bread menu, the boxer loads up on fruits. "I eat eight fruit colours in the morning," he says.

 

 

Recovery session (7.30 am)

Between 7:30 am and 10:00 am, Kiwanuka hits the rest button, allowing his body to recuperate before heading to the next item on his gruelling programme. 

 

_____________________________

 

 

Hit the bag (10:30 am)

It's off to the gym next. This is where Kiwanuka hones his boxing technique, taking lessons, rebukes and tips from coach Abdul Tebazalwa. This normally runs until lunchtime.

 

 

_____________________________

 

 

Lunch and siesta (1:00 pm)

After lunch, Kiwanuka takes a break until 4 pm, resting his body for the day's last workout. Lunch includes what called "foods of the soil" such as cassava, sweet potatoes, matooke and posho. He also enjoys rice and Irish potatoes.

 

_____________________________

 

  

Final round (4:00 pm)

Kiwanuka spends the day's final two hours, between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm, doing more technical work like shadow boxing or strengthening his cardio by skipping rope.

 

_____________________________

 

 

Home sweet home (7:00 pm)

Kiwanuka is back home in Kabowa by 7:00 pm. He has a dinner that is heavy on breads and is in bed by 9:00 pm.