INTERVIEW: Falcon's DeCoud Talks Gym Shoes, Training Routines, and Dunking on Griffin

Thomas DeCoud is serious about two things, training and his shoes. Just peruse the Atlanta Falcons safety's Instagram for proof, Thomas' sneaker game in and out of the gym reflects his dedications to his passions in life. Sneaker Report sat down in the Berkeley native to discuss gym routines, favorite training shoes, and how he'd take on Blake Griffin.

Interview by Brandon Elder (@MrBrando3)

What's your favorite pair to take to the gym? / What are your 5 favorite shoes to take to the gym?
I would say the Nike Frees – I really like the whole barefoot concept for my workout. I also like to work out in Kobe Vs, really any Nike Kobes for training purposes when working on agility. I haven’t had a chance to work out in the 8s but I hear they are really comfortable so those are next on my list. I work out in the KD IVs – that’s just one of my favorite shoes. 

Can you walk us through your daily training routine?
I start off with core work to get my core going – it is essential for the rest of your workout to have that activated first. It makes the rest of your workout so much easier if your core is locked in. Then the rest of my workout varies depending on the day but it helps me utilize as much of my work out starting there. I’ve really gotten into kettlebell workouts during the off-season – real complex movements. It’s all about core and keeping everything in line and using your natural strength – it helps translate into being able to use your maximum power on the field. Our strength coach taught us that you can be as strong as you want but if you can’t transfer that power onto the field it really isn’t helping you.

You're up on your sock game, does that change at the gym or are you specific about your performance socks as well?
Everyone really loves the Nike Elite socks but I really like the ones adidas came out with (Team Speed socks). They are pretty similar, they don’t have as many crazy colors but I like the cushioning and overall the comfort. This off-season I am working on customization on some socks.

You've said (via Instagram) that the KDIV is the best All-Star Game shoe ever besides the Columbia 11s. What would you take to the ASG?
I would go with the “Bred” XIs in an all-star game – it’s just my favorite shoe of all time.