Joovvin’ with Daniel Jones

Daniel Jones is the future at quarterback for the New York Giants. After a promising rookie year in 2019, the 6’5 signal caller is the undisputed starter in New York in 2020. He’s also using Joovv red light therapy to train and perform at his peak, and recover after strenuous practices and games. 

Joovv had a conversation with Daniel Jones before the start of the 2020 season. We talked about training and recovery, life in the NFL, and what he loves about New York. 

Joovv: How would you grade your rookie season in 2019? What’s a specific aspect of your game or training you want to improve in 2020?

Daniel Jones: Overall I think there are a lot of lessons I will take from my rookie year and hopefully learn from and apply to this 2020 season and on into the future. I felt like I played well at times and I gained confidence as a player and will look to build on that into 2020. I am looking to continue to develop my understanding of the game and analyzing defenses. A lot of that training takes place in the film room and prepping for specific opponents week to week. 

What part of your training routine is the toughest to get through, but yields great results? 

Daniel Jones: The toughest part of my training program is probably the conditioning aspect of it. I don’t feel like I’m alone among athletes across all levels in that fact. Running sprints in the NFL is no more fun than it was in Middle School.

How seriously are NFL players and trainers taking the recovery phase of training? Other than red light therapy, what are some of the ways the pros are working recovery strategies into their daily routines?

Daniel Jones: Recovery is a huge aspect of the process for NFL players. Most guys will use the cold tub and hot tub as well as get massages. Compression devices as well as various mobility and stretching routines are fairly commonly used as well.

What are some of your go-to strategies for overcoming soreness and nagging injuries? 

Daniel Jones: If I am particularly sore I will first and foremost make sure I am getting enough quality sleep and eating the right fruits and vegetables. Outside of that I use red light therapy and put myself through several stretching and mobility series. 

What made you start thinking more about the role light plays in your health and fitness? 

Daniel Jones: I didn’t start using light therapy until about half way through my rookie year after several conversations with my strength coach. We have light therapy at the Giants facility, so I began using it and immediately felt the effects and benefits.

What role does light therapy play in your workout/recovery routine these days?

Daniel Jones: I use light therapy for 15 minutes, 3-4 times a week. If I am particularly sore I will use it more regularly, but at least 3-4 times a week. 

Would you recommend Joovv light therapy to other players?

Daniel Jones: I would certainly recommend it to other players. It has made a huge impact on my ability to recover quickly and get ready to play the following week.

What are some other ways you try to keep your throwing shoulder healthy?

Daniel Jones: I try to make sure I am maintaining the mobility and stability in my rotator cuff and scapula through a series of exercises and stretches. Staying on top of my shoulder care is a critical part of my daily routine.

Do you like to use cold in your training and recovery or do you stay away from the ice?

Daniel Jones: I will use ice from time to time but I wouldn’t say it is part of my routine. 

What’s something you love about New York City? 

Daniel Jones: I love the food in New York. Just about anywhere you go, the food is going to be good. There are countless good restaurants across the spectrum in the city. 

You can read more Joovvin’ interviews with elite pro athletes on the Joovv Blog.