A personal trainer in Rome discovered that his client "Robert" was actually Pope Leo XIV, and for almost two years going to the gym, no one suspected he was a cardinal.
According to the Italian media Il Messaggero, Valerio Masella had been training Robert Prevost for two years without knowing his true identity. He suspected that he could be an academic or a teacher, but never a cardinal.
Prevost regularly attended the gym and was in good physical condition, as expressed by the 26-year-old coach to the press.
"For a man of his age, he has an exceptional physical condition, typical of someone who has never stopped playing sports, with an excellent balance between muscle mass, bone mass, and fat mass," said Masella.
Masella mentioned that the current Pope was enrolled for almost two years in the training center and was consistent.
“It was quite consistent in his training. I followed him from the start. He was precise, coming two times a week, sometimes even three, depending on his commitments, of course,” he revealed.
León XIV used to train in the mornings and stayed for an hour: “The right amount for a good workout.”
To start, they did aerobic exercises, then moved on to some machines, the treadmill, or even the stationary bike.
He also expressed that Prevost was reserved and spoke little or not at all, although he always appeared kind and smiling.
I thought he was a professor, an academic, or something like that. Certainly, a person who spent hours at a desk even though his physical parameters were very good. An excellent balance of muscle mass, bone, and fat. In summary, very respectable parameters. And he also has a lot of physical endurance,” the young man added.
Pope Leo XIV officiated this Sunday in St. Peter's Square the inaugural mass of his pontificate, calling for love, unity in the church, and peace in the world.
The day began with the traditional procession of the Holy Father in his popemobile through the square, where he greeted thousands of faithful, according to Vatican News.
The Pope of the Catholic Church, who was elected to the position following the death of Francisco, has Cuban roots in his blood, as revealed by a recent genealogical investigation.
The information reveals that one of his direct ancestors was born in Havana in the 18th century, which confirms an unexpected connection between the new leader of the Vatican and the history of the Island.
The Pope's connection to Cuba is not merely a matter of heritage. Before being elected Pope, Prevost traveled to the Island several times, where he held masses, met with the faithful, and gathered with Cuban bishops to discuss pastoral challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pope Leo XIV and His History
How did his personal trainer discover the true identity of Pope Leo XIV?
Personal trainer Valerio Masella did not know that "Robert" was Pope Leo XIV for nearly two years of training. Masella discovered his client's true identity when he was elected Pope, as he had previously come to the gym without revealing his position as a cardinal.
What physical characteristics stood out about the trainer of Pope Leo XIV?
The coach Valerio Masella emphasized that Pope Leo XIV has exceptional physical condition for his age, with an excellent balance of muscle, bone, and fat mass, along with remarkable physical endurance, indicating that he has never stopped playing sports.
What is the connection between Pope Leo XIV and Cuba?
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, has a historical and personal connection to Cuba. One of his direct ancestors was born in Havana in the 18th century. Additionally, before being elected Pope, Prevost visited Cuba several times, engaging with local communities and working to facilitate the return of the Augustinians to the Island.
What were the responsibilities of Pope Leo XIV before his election?
Before being elected Pope, Robert Francis Prevost served as the prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America since 2023. He played a crucial role in the selection of new bishops and in strengthening the Church's presence in Latin America.
What current challenges does Pope Leo XIV face in his papacy?
Pope Leo XIV faces challenges related to artificial intelligence and social justice. He has expressed his intention to address these issues from the social doctrine of the Church, following the legacy of his predecessor on matters such as poverty and synodality.
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