Patrick Stump, the lead vocalist of Fall Out Boy, embarked on a transformative journey that not only involved a significant weight loss but also a rediscovery of his musical identity and a boost in self-confidence. This article delves into Stump's weight loss experience, the health concerns that prompted it, and how it intertwined with his career and personal life.
The Turning Point: Health Concerns
At 25, Patrick Stump faced alarming health issues that served as a wake-up call. "I was pre-diabetic and I had given myself asthma," he revealed. While he clarifies that he still has asthma, his weight exacerbated the condition, leading to asthma attacks. His blood pressure was dangerously high, and his cholesterol levels were "insane" for someone his age. Despite his relatively short stature of 5'4", Stump's body mass was significantly unhealthy, making him "really sick."
The Catalyst: A Gradual Realization
Unlike some weight loss stories with a specific triggering moment, Stump's decision was a gradual realization. He didn't pinpoint one particular event but rather a growing awareness of his deteriorating health and a desire for change. "I don't really have a moment specifically that made me do it," he stated.
The Method: Portion Control and Exercise
Stump's weight loss strategy was straightforward: portion control and exercise. He lost approximately 60 pounds by implementing these changes. He emphasized that he didn't drastically alter his diet. "I never really ate that bad, I just ate too much," he explained. Instead of switching to "whole wheat bread or something like that," he simply reduced the quantity of food he consumed. Regular exercise was the other crucial component, even though he admits, "it sucks." He humorously notes, "It wasn't like I had to switch to whole wheat bread or something like that. I really just had to eat less of what I was eating and I had to exercise more."
The Support System: A Trainer for Weight Training
Recognizing his lack of knowledge in weight training, Stump enlisted the help of a trainer. "I do have a trainer, which was really for weights because that was something that I didn't know anything about and I didn't really know that was important." The trainer guided him in weightlifting, which he found beneficial. Depending on his tour schedule, he works with a trainer once or twice a week.
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The Mental Shift: Confidence and Fashion
Stump connected his weight loss journey with a newfound sense of confidence. He explained that his previous discomfort with attention led him to "hide in plain sight." His "fashion sense, or lack thereof," reflected his insecurity. As he gained confidence, he described it as "cleaning up and losing the weight," both physically and metaphorically.
The Impact on Career: Solo Album and Musical Exploration
Stump's weight loss coincided with a period of musical exploration outside of Fall Out Boy. He released a solo album, allowing him to delve into different musical styles and express himself in new ways. He felt he needed to "carve it out of a lot of external things" to remember what he was up to before Fall Out Boy. This solo venture allowed him to explore musical territories outside the pop-punk framework of Fall Out Boy.
The Hiatus of Fall Out Boy: Creative Differences
During this time, Fall Out Boy went on hiatus, driven by creative differences. Stump clarified that these differences were not interpersonal, emphasizing his continued affection for his bandmates. "I love those guys, I have nothing against those guys at all, and I definitely miss playing with them. But I don't want to play this music with them, and they don't want to play this music with me." While the band's future remained uncertain, Stump maintained that they were on good terms. "There are no plans to get back together, and there are no plans not to get back together," he stated.
The Newfound Attention: A Different Kind of Recognition
Stump humorously acknowledged the increased attention he received after his transformation. "I've never gotten hit on this much - ever!" He credited his girlfriend for keeping him grounded amidst the attention.
The Ongoing Battle: Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle
Stump emphasized that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is an ongoing process. He continues to monitor his diet and exercise regularly. "It's an ongoing battle, and it's still something that I have to watch, especially with exercise because it sucks."
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The Show "To Live or Diet": Relatable Struggles
In a different context, the struggles with weight and body image are explored in the musical "To Live or Diet," written by Gary Simboli. The musical, set in a fitness class, delves into the raw and personal experiences related to weight and body image. Gabrielle Montgomery, president of Lake Plains Players, highlights the show's empowering message for everyone, regardless of their weight struggles. The musical portrays characters like Erik, who abuses diet pills, and Mr. Binge, who tempts others with unhealthy snacks.
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