Frank Gore changes offseason routine, says results will be same

SANTA CLARA -- Running back Frank Gore switched coasts for his offseason training routine.

In his first seven NFL seasons, Gore spent most of his time in Miami to prepare for his job as the featured back in the 49ers' offense.

But after rushing for 1,211 yards -- second-most in his career -- Gore decided it was time to spend more time in the offseason with his teammates.
"Change is good sometimes," Gore said Tuesday after the first 49ers practice during organized team activities. "Coach Uye (49ers head strength and conditioning coach Mark Uyeyama) has a good workout plan going.

"(We're) trying to get back on pace, where we left off last year, and try to get better. Just try to get that work in with the O-line, quarterbacks, receivers, and probably go even farther."

Gore said he took six weeks after the season to let his body rest. As part of the contract extension he signed last summer, Gore receives a $400,000 annual bonus for taking part in the 49ers' offseason program. He reported to the Bay Area to join his teammates three weeks ago.

Gore's health was in question at the end of last season as his workload seemed to decrease. Gore carried just 29 times in the playoffs against New Orleans and the New York Giants for 163 yards (5.6 average). He also caught 13 passes for 83 yards.

Gore, who turned 29 last month, said there was no physical reason he saw a reduction in his rushing attempts late in the season.

With added depth in the 49ers' backfield, Gore might share carries more than ever this season. After all, the 49ers added veteran Brandon Jacobs and rookie LaMichael James to go along with reserve Kendall Hunter. But Gore said he is working this spring as if his role will not change.

"I feel I still can do everything pretty good: catch, run and block. I'm going to do what I've always been doing," Gore said. "As long as I'm healthy and in great shape and ready to play, I'm going to be the Frank Gore I've always been."

Worse than the physical pounding Gore took last season, he said, was the emotional anguish of losing in the NFC championship game in overtime to the eventual Super Bowl champion New York Giants.

"Oh, man, it was tough," Gore said. "That's one of the reasons I didn't want to go to the Pro Bowl. It broke me down for a while. How close we were and looking back at all the tough times we had here and to be that close to going to the big dance, that was very tough."


(csnbayarea.com)