Brad Underwood, the head coach of the Illinois Fighting Illini men's basketball team, has not only been making headlines for his coaching prowess but also for his remarkable commitment to his health. His journey, marked by a 40-pound weight loss, is a testament to the power of consistent effort, mindful lifestyle changes, and the influence of family support.
The Catalyst: From Lockdown to a Healthier Lifestyle
Before his transformation, Coach Underwood, like many others, juggled a demanding schedule that often relegated personal health goals to the back burner. The unexpected shift brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic acted as an unforeseen catalyst. With more time spent at home, he received a playful yet poignant challenge from his daughter to prioritize his well-being. This wasn't a sudden, drastic overhaul but rather a gradual, incremental shift towards a healthier weight.
His daughter, a Junior at Illinois, handed him a picture and asked him which of his three chins the interviewer liked best. Underwood said in the above interview that he kind of let his health get away from him. The honest words from his daughter inspired him to take better care of himself.
The Transformation: Walking and Mindful Eating
Coach Underwood's approach was refreshingly simple. He incorporated daily walks into his routine, often covering 8 to 12 miles. This wasn't just about hitting a target number; he integrated exercise into his existing schedule, turning phone calls into walking meetings.
“I do Zooms while I’m walking, I do all of my phone calls,” he said.
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Alongside this added physical activity, he focused on a dietary shift, prioritizing vegetables and making more mindful food choices. While the exact details of his diet remain private, the emphasis on healthier, plant-based options is clear. It wasn't about restrictive dieting but about sustainable choices that fit his lifestyle.
The Impact: A Healthier Coach for a Stronger Team
Underwood started walking anywhere from eight-to-twelve miles per day and decided it was time to lose some weight. He set the goal of losing about 50 pounds, and had lost more than 30 back in August. The fourth-year Illini coach started at 268 and was down to 234 pounds on August 19, which was the lightest he had been since 2006. Adding that he’s down to 226, with eight more pounds to lose, his motivation for the weight-loss journey came from his daughter.
It's awesome that Coach Underwood feels great because he needs all the energy he can muster to guide the best basketball team Champaign has seen in about 15 years.
Current State of the Illini Program
As Underwood focuses on his health, he is also diligently working to maintain a competitive basketball program. Here's a glimpse into the current state of the Illini:
Player Updates and Potential Lineup Changes
The Illini are currently facing some uncertainty regarding player availability. Forward Ty Rodgers is recovering from knee surgery and is expected to be out for months. Meanwhile, Eastern Europeans Milhailo Petrovic and David Mirkovic are awaiting federal government approval for their student visas.
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With Rodgers sidelined, Ben Humrichous is expected to see more playing time. Junior center/power forward Zvonimir Ivisic has been approved and is practicing with the team.
New Additions and Coaching Staff
Illinois has hired Kevin Kruger, son of former Illinois head coach Lon Kruger, as an assistant to the head coach. Kruger will focus on expanding recruiting connections and scouting opponents for Underwood.
Emphasis on Physicality and Shooting
The Illini are focusing on bulking up their frontcourt to better defend against Big Ten centers. Tomislav Ivisic has gained weight, now weighing 265 pounds, while Humrichous is up to 244 pounds. Jake Davis, on the other hand, has lost weight to improve his athleticism.
Underwood also emphasized the importance of improving the team's shooting ability, particularly from the three-point line.
Team Dynamics and Versatility
Underwood highlighted the team's versatility and the potential for different lineups. He praised Dain Dainja's improvement and the balance of experience and youth within the team.
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Facing Challenges Head-On
Underwood acknowledged the challenges posed by the transfer portal and the ever-changing landscape of college basketball. However, he views these challenges as opportunities to enhance the program.
Expectations and Goals
Underwood has high expectations for the team, aiming to achieve something that hasn't been accomplished in a long time. He emphasizes the importance of setting a high standard and striving for excellence.
Analysis and Insights: Successes and Limitations
Coach Underwood's 40-pound weight loss is a significant achievement, especially considering its self-directed nature. His self-discipline and commitment are truly inspiring. However, his journey also highlights the potential limitations of an unstructured approach. The lack of professional guidance, such as from a nutritionist or personal trainer, means his methods might not be directly replicable for everyone. While his story is incredibly motivational, it's crucial to understand that individual results may vary greatly.
Actionable Takeaways: Lessons for Your Own Journey
Coach Underwood's experience provides several valuable takeaways for anyone aiming for sustainable weight loss:
- Embrace Consistent Movement: Walking, as demonstrated by Coach Underwood, is an accessible and effective form of exercise. Find an activity you enjoy and make it a regular part of your routine. Even short, consistent walks can yield significant results.
- Harness the Power of Support: A supportive environment is crucial. The playful challenge from his daughter served as a significant motivator. Surround yourself with encouraging friends, family, or a supportive community.
- Prioritize a Holistic Approach: Sustainable weight loss requires attention to both diet and exercise. Small, consistent changes in these areas are more effective than drastic measures.
- Seek Professional Guidance: While Coach Underwood's journey is inspirational, it's vital to consider the benefits of personalized guidance from a healthcare professional. A nutritionist or personal trainer can provide a tailored plan to fit your individual needs.