Cameron Jerrell Newton, a prominent figure in American football, has garnered attention not only for his on-field prowess but also for his commitment to a vegan lifestyle. This article delves into Cam Newton's diet and workout regimen, exploring how he maintains peak physical condition while adhering to a plant-based diet.
From Pescatarian to Vegan: A Dietary Evolution
Newton's dietary journey began with a move away from red meat due to injuries, initially adopting a pescatarian diet that included seafood. In 2019, he transitioned to a completely vegan diet. This shift raises the question: What does Cam Newton eat?
Despite the perception that vegan diets are restrictive, Newton's food choices are diverse and satisfying. He enjoys vegan cheese, vegan meat alternatives, and even vegan ice cream. Chinese cuisine and vegetable burgers with dressings and pickles are among his favorites.
Nutritional Considerations for a Vegan Athlete
Following a vegan diet requires careful attention to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients. For Cam Newton, this includes:
- Vitamin B12: Since vegan diets exclude animal products, supplementation with Vitamin B12 is crucial.
- Vitamin D: The elimination of dairy products necessitates Vitamin D supplementation.
- Omega-3s: These essential fatty acids are primarily found in animal-based foods, making supplementation necessary for vegans.
Newton believes that eating like a winner is essential for performing like a winner on the field.
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Addressing Concerns About Veganism and Athletic Performance
Some experts have expressed concerns that a vegan diet may not provide sufficient protein and amino acids for injury recovery, particularly for a physically demanding sport like football. Laura Moretti, a registered sports dietician, notes that animal-based foods contain all nine essential amino acids, which can be more challenging to obtain on a vegan diet.
However, Newton has access to resources to carefully curate his diet and supplement regimen. While it may be more labor-intensive, a well-planned vegan diet can meet the nutritional needs of an athlete.
Cam Newton's Workout Routine: Building Strength and Agility
Newton's workout regime focuses on core strength, muscle mass, flexibility, and mobility. He prioritizes exercises that engage one arm or leg at a time, emphasizing core strength and rotational ability over heavy barbell lifting.
Core Workout
Newton's core routine, developed by Carolina Panthers coaches Jason Benguche and Joe Kenn, consists of the following exercises:
- Kettlebell Power Pull (2 sets, 2, 3, 4, 6 reps)
- Kettlebell Single Leg Squat (1 set, 2, 3, 5, 8 reps)
- Single-arm Dumbbell Bench Press (1 set, 2, 3, 6, 10 reps)
- TRX Inverted Row (1 set, 2, 3, 10, 15 reps)
- Single-Leg Good Morning (1 set, 2, 3, 6, 10 reps)
Cardio and Strength Training
Newton's cardio training involves hour-long sessions on the treadmill or air bike, starting with a low-intensity warmup followed by HIIT cycles of sprints and recoveries. He also follows a split routine, working each muscle group once a week with a focus on high reps and progressive overload.
Read also: Transformation of Nate Newton
The Importance of a Team Dietitian
Jennifer Brunelli, the Carolina Panthers' team dietitian, played a crucial role in revamping the team's nutrition program and catering to individual player needs, including Newton's pescatarian and later vegan diet. She worked closely with Newton and the team chefs to create menus that incorporated fish and other seafood in creative ways, such as shrimp and grits and salmon cakes for breakfast.
Brunelli also emphasized the importance of hydration and customized meal plans based on individual player goals, such as weight loss, weight gain, or injury recovery. Her efforts have led to improvements in player weights, strength gains, and recovery.
Alex Toussaint's Wellness Routine
Alex Toussaint, a Peloton instructor, also emphasizes the importance of a holistic wellness routine. His day begins with a mindfulness practice of inhaling confidence and releasing negative energy. He incorporates meditation, smoothies with almond milk, frozen fruit, and Ladder protein, and early morning workouts into his daily routine.
Toussaint follows a flexible diet, allowing himself occasional treats while prioritizing protein and carbohydrates to fuel his cycling workouts. He also emphasizes the importance of mental recovery, taking time to decompress after teaching classes through walks or drives.