Austin "Chumlee" Russell, the charismatic and humorous personality from the History Channel's "Pawn Stars," has captivated audiences since the show's debut in 2009. Beyond his on-screen antics at the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, Chumlee's personal journey, particularly his weight loss transformation, has garnered significant attention. This article delves into Chumlee's weight loss journey, exploring his motivations, methods, and the impact it has had on his life.
Who Is Chumlee?
Born on September 8, 1982, in Henderson, Nevada, Austin "Chumlee" Russell rose to fame as a cast member on "Pawn Stars". He quickly became a fan favorite, known for his affable nature and comedic timing. Capitalizing on his popularity, Chumlee established his own company, selling novelty items of his design, and even ventured into the world of video games with "Chumlee's Adventure: The Quest for Pinky," a homebrew action game for the Nintendo Entertainment System. Beyond his professional endeavors, Chumlee enjoys collecting shoes, owning over 200 pairs, and has interests in sports, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, video games, and skateboarding.
The Turning Point
Chumlee's weight has fluctuated over the years. He reached a point where he weighed as much as 350 lb (160 kg) in January 2019. Chumlee has always been transparent about his struggle to lose weight. After years of struggling to lead a healthier life, he opted for gastric sleeve surgery at Blossom Bariatrics in Las Vegas, losing 160 lb (73 kg) by October 2021.
Initial Lifestyle Changes
Chumlee's initial weight loss efforts began in September 2013, motivated by his father's death from pancreatic cancer shortly before "Pawn Stars" premiered. He altered his lifestyle habits and lost 75 lb (34 kg) in a year by exercising at a gym six days a week and improving his diet, including drinking more juice, eating more vegetables and abstaining from red meat. This allowed him to ride a hovercraft he had purchased earlier in the series, which had a maximum weight restriction of 250 lb (110 kg). Earlier in the year, Russell told the Las Vegas Review-Journal all about how he lost the weight. “I’m going to the gym six days a week,” he said. “I’m eating right. Well-balanced diet.
The Gastric Sleeve Decision
Despite initial success through diet and exercise, Chumlee later regained weight, leading him to consider more drastic measures. In early 2018, Chumlee decided to undergo gastric sleeve surgery. The 35-year-old cable sensation decided to have the stomach size-reducing surgery Feb. 15 and on Wednesday said he’d lost about 10 pounds. For someone like me who’s been trying to lose weight their whole life, to be successful in getting the weight off, but then only to find out once you change your routine and diet all the weight just piles back on, it’s really discouraging. I’ve been on a roller coaster of weight loss and gain my whole life. I decided that to keep the weight off for good, this was the best way for me. I’m committed to this and will take the steps needed as far as smaller portions and eating less. I’ve already lost almost 40 pounds on the pre-op diet and have set my goal to getting under 200 pounds. That’s where the surgery shines! He’s the ideal candidate for weight loss surgery - someone who has struggled with losing weight, keeping it off, regaining it back again. Now all of his efforts will pay off, rather than a cycle of losing and gaining it back, it’s time to lose it and keep it off!” states Dr.
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Gastric sleeve surgery involves removing a significant portion of the stomach, reducing it to a smaller, banana-shaped pouch. This restricts food intake, leading to weight loss. Following a diet and exercise plan after the surgery is crucial for the surgery's success. If you stick to these changes, you may increase your chances of maintaining weight loss in the long run.
Chumlee's Workout Routine
Inspired by Corey's success, Chumlee decided to transform his lifestyle as well. Chumlee followed a different set of exercises each day of the week. Such a combination of exercises can be highly effective for gaining lean body mass as well as reducing fat in sedentary, overweight, or obese adults (1).
Day 5 Chumlee's Stairmaster workout consisted of 25 minutes of interval training. He would alternate between 30 seconds of moderate intensity and 30 seconds of low intensity throughout the entire session.
Day 7 Incline treadmill for 30 minutes switching off between a moderate interval (5.5 mph) and a low interval (3.5 mph) with the incline set at 10.0.
Chumlee Diet Routine
The Chumlee Diet revolves around consuming whole, unprocessed foods to support the body and health. Initially, Chumlee eliminated all processed foods except mustard and adopted a motto of everything in moderation. Let's explore the foods to eat and avoid following this regimen like Chumlee. Stay hydrated with plenty of water.
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Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
Since his weight loss journey, Chumlee maintains a healthy weight of 190 lbs and prioritizes clean eating, exercise, and having a strong support system. After the surgery, he didn't let himself go or give in to his cravings. He dedicatedly follows a strict diet and exercise regime and hopes to inspire his fans to embark on their transformation journey and not fear criticism. He hit the gym six days a week, improved his diet with more juice and veggies, and cut out red meat.
Legal Troubles
On March 9, 2016, Chumlee's home was raided during an investigation into sexual assault allegations. During searches of his residence, police found crystal meth, marijuana, Xanax, and multiple firearms. Evidence of possible cocaine use was also found. On May 23, 2016, Chumlee was charged with 20 felony counts, including drug and weapons charges. On May 23, 2016, Chumlee was charged with 20 felony counts, including drug and weapons charges.
Impact and Inspiration
Chumlee's weight loss journey has been a source of inspiration for many. His willingness to share his struggles and successes has resonated with audiences, demonstrating that significant lifestyle changes are possible with dedication and support.
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