Carioca is the name given to the people of Rio de Janeiro. Being one of the world’s most breathtaking and lively cities, it’s no wonder why this week we celebrate it’s culture. And who better to ask than our very own, inspiring community of Free Athletes. If the saying “communities make cities” is anything to go by, then these guys are nothing short of being energetic, passionate, colourful and vibrant. Time to meet the “Carioca”.
Rio has the second largest community of Free Athletes in Brazil. Just behind São Paulo. Since the beach is such an important part of their lives, it’s no surprise that Rio’s people are known for their body worshipping. Where the sun shines most of the year, exercise is a huge part of the average carioca's life. Whether in the morning, in the afternoon or at night, these energetic bunch with a passion for life like no other, can be found working hard to get the perfect beach body.
And Rio’s scorching heat is not enough to put these guys off. They are used to the sun and heat. Of course, a cold coconut water helps them to withstand the high temperatures and rehydrate after their physical activity.
If there’s one thing the Free Athlete’s of Rio also can’t complain about it’s the lack of training spots. Sports parks are located all over the city, and when you have the most beautiful postcard scenes of the city as a backdrop, training in Rio feels more like a privilege than a chore.
To get an even better feel for what it’s like to be a Free Athlete in Rio, we asked those who know the city best. Our Freeletics ambassadors.
What’s makes Rio different to everywhere else?
“Also known as “The Wonderful City”, this is exactly how we feel when we look around at the beauty of Rio’s nature. The beaches: Copacabana, Ipanema and Leblon; The Pão de Açúcar, The Corcovado, The Cristo Redentor. And the Maracanã, of course, the most famous stadium in the world. All of this, plus Aterro do Flamengo, Botafogo, Rodrigo de Freitas lagoon. It is these beautiful places which motivate us to train.”
“And not just its nature and buildings. The cities vibrant atmosphere instills us with the passion our Freeletics training requires. It’s no longer that we have to get outside, it’s that we want to. And the best thing about Freeletics is that you can. There is no feeling quite like training in the sand. And when you have such a beautiful beach on your doorstep, why would anyone miss out on that experience?”
“If we’re not training on the beach, you can find us climbing the Gavea's stone. Once at the top, looking over Rio de Janeiro, every native feels a burning sense of pride in their heart. That’s what it means to be Carioca. To be a Free Athlete of Rio. Inexplicable. Just being there. In the moment. In the city. It’s like a person with a heartbeat and personality. And when you’re there you really feel that. Even in amongst the hustle and bustle, it’s welcoming. You can stand in the centre of the most crowded part of the city and still feel calm, relaxed and peaceful.”
How is the Carioca Community of Free Athletes?
“The cariocas are a tough, driven but also very laid back population. Some reluctant to do sports. But that’s changing. The gym culture is strong. And when it comes to Freeletics, those who are prepared to be challenged, know that it’s worth it. To be a free athlete in Rio de Janeiro is to challenge yourself. To put yourself through hell. But all this with a smile on your face. We’re all about health, happiness and enjoying everything we do. Especially Freeletics.”
