Shaquille O’Neal, the iconic NBA legend, has recently made headlines with a remarkable transformation. The 51-year-old athlete has shed an astonishing 55 pounds over the summer, bringing his current weight down to 351 pounds. While this weight loss is impressive, Shaq is far from finished on his journey to better health and fitness. In this article, we’ll delve into Shaq’s incredible transformation, motivations, goals, and the methods he employs to achieve this dramatic change.
Motivation and Setting Goals
When asked about his motivation for this dramatic weight loss, Shaq admits, “I was getting chubby and couldn’t even walk up the stairs. I didn’t like the way I looked in the mirror.” This honest self-assessment led him to set ambitious goals for himself. Shaq’s target is to reduce his weight to 315 and 330 pounds. He humorously describes his approach as setting “crazy goals,” he enjoys poking fun at his NBA colleague, Charles Barkley, whom he affectionately calls “fat.”
Dietary Changes for the Win
Shaquille O’Neal’s weight loss journey isn’t solely about shedding pounds; it’s also about making significant dietary changes. He jokes that he currently possesses a “little 4.9 pack,” but his ultimate objective is to achieve “an eight pack.” This transformation began in December when Shaq decided to prioritize his health. He had already lost 40 pounds at that point but wanted to continue shedding weight after receiving some revealing blood work results.
He shares that he wasn’t particularly knowledgeable about nutrition and dietetics, admitting, “I didn’t know what the difference between a carb and a protein was at 50 years old.” However, with the guidance of a friend and expert advice, he started making healthier choices, incorporating more vegetables, and addressing nutritional deficiencies. These changes have been pivotal in his weight loss journey.
From 395 Pounds to NBA Championships
Shaquille O’Neal’s weight has fluctuated throughout his illustrious NBA career. After winning his first NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2000, he weighed 375 pounds. However, when the Lakers secured a second consecutive title in 2001, he tipped the scales at 405 pounds, a notable increase. His weight climbed, reaching 395 pounds when the Lakers achieved a “three-peat” in 2002.
Yet, Shaq demonstrated incredible resilience. He embarked on a remarkable transformation following a trade to the Miami Heat in 2004. By 2006, he had slimmed to 315 pounds, helping the Heat secure their first-ever NBA championship. This turnaround is a testament to Shaq’s determination and commitment to fitness.
The Road Ahead
Shaquille O’Neal estimates he’s “75 percent” of the way to achieving his fitness goals. He’s on track to reach his target weight range, and his dietary changes yield positive results. He acknowledges that some of the supplements and shakes he consumed contributed to his weight gain in the past, underscoring the importance of balanced nutrition.
In recent times, Shaq proudly displayed his weight loss by posing for a picture with Kim Mulkey, the head coach of the LSU women’s basketball team. Mulkey had just led her team to victory in the NCAA Championship. Shaq’s connection to LSU runs deep, as he attended the university from 1989 to 1992.