Chapter 4: Making a Plan — Specialized Training Begins!
Ryosuke Kira knew well the power of Riko Aida's unparalleled eyes.
Before heading to Blue Lock, perhaps he could learn a few things from her — knowledge that could help keep his body in peak condition.
Riko thought for a moment, then nodded seriously.
"Then I'll be honest, Kira-senpai. Your physique is excellent — you've maintained your form well, and it's clear you're far more disciplined than most athletes. But it's not perfect yet. First, your core strength is lacking — that affects both your explosive power and your balance. And, um, your stamina probably isn't amazing either. B-but! Don't take that the wrong way! Compared to most people I've seen, you're already incredible, Senpai! I'm just pointing things out casually!"
"It's fine. What you said is actually very insightful."
Kira pondered seriously for a moment after hearing her analysis. Based on the memories of his body's original owner, she was right — those were exactly his weak points.
Just then, a sharp ache ran through his right leg, as if he'd just finished a full-speed sprint. He unconsciously shifted his weight onto his left leg to ease the pressure.
"Kira-senpai, is your right leg hurting a bit?"
Even though the movement was subtle, Riko noticed immediately.
"It's nothing serious, just some soreness."
"You shouldn't ignore that! Athletes can't afford to take risks with their bodies. Muscle soreness isn't a good sign! Please, sit down for a moment."
She gestured for him to sit and stretch out his right leg.
"It's probably just muscle fatigue from overtraining. A few stretches and a short rest should help. Here, I have a sports drink — it'll replenish your electrolytes."
She handed him a bottle.
"Thanks, Aida-san."
"Just call me Riko."
She smiled, then her expression turned serious again.
"From how you look, I'd say you've been training for quite a while. Training's important, of course, but overdoing it can seriously harm your body. Remember, your body is your capital as an athlete!"
Having grown up helping her father — a professional athletic trainer — Riko was meticulous about physical health. Even though this was their first meeting, she treated Kira no differently.
"Got it. I'll be more careful next time," Kira nodded, his gaze dropping to his right leg.
He hadn't trained long today — just a warm-up and two shots. There was no reason for muscle pain. He'd been full of energy when he arrived.
Then it hit him — the soreness started only after he used Thunderclap and Flash in combination with Total Concentration Breathing. And that kick… had been with his right foot.
He hadn't noticed right away, distracted while talking to Riko, but a few seconds later, the ache spread sharply through his leg.
So… even one use causes this much pain? And fatigue too. The regular Thunderclap and Flash doesn't strain me, but using it alongside the Total Concentration Breathing puts a huge burden on the body. I don't have enough stamina or physical strength yet — even if I'm called a prodigy, my body still has a long way to go.
Kira stretched as Riko instructed, trying to ease the soreness.
Using the Total Concentration Breathing unleashed the skill's true power, but his body clearly couldn't handle repeated use. One attempt already caused visible muscle strain; repeated use in a short period might even cause injury.
I'll have to boost my endurance and overall body strength. My muscles can't yet withstand the Breathing Technique's full output, and my accuracy suffers too — more power means less control.
If I use Thunderclap and Flash in Total Concentration during a normal match, I can guarantee at least one goal… but that's it. I definitely can't use it repeatedly without hurting myself. At this rate, even scoring once per match wouldn't be enough inside Blue Lock.
To score more goals per match, I'll need two things: first, to increase my physical strength so I can safely use Thunderclap and Flash multiple times; and second, to train my left foot. If my left can shoot freely, it can share the load — doubling my total uses.
After several minutes of stretching and rest, the soreness in his right leg had eased considerably, though it still lingered slightly.
"Kira-senpai, you really are a training maniac," Riko said earnestly. "But rest is just as important! Maintaining your physical condition directly affects how long your athletic career lasts."
Her tone was firm, and as she spoke, she tapped her chin thoughtfully with a slender finger. Her amber eyes gleamed with interest as she looked at him.
"I'll keep that in mind. And no need for formalities — just call me Ryosuke," Kira replied with a smile.
She really was a kind girl, and her help today had been invaluable.
At the same time, an idea took shape in his mind.
If I remember correctly, Riko's father runs a gym. Maybe they could help me set up a specialized physical training program.
He was just about to voice that thought—when Riko opened her mouth at the exact same moment.
"Would it be alright if I helped you design a training plan?"
"Could I ask you to design a special training plan for me?"
The two spoke almost simultaneously—then paused, exchanging a brief, awkward silence.
"Um… I'd love to!" Riko said first, breaking into a bright grin.
"Welcome to our family's gym — I'll help you train properly!"