Taylor Lewan, a former offensive tackle for the Tennessee Titans, has garnered significant attention not only for his prowess on the football field but also for his dedication to health and fitness. This article delves into Lewan's diet and exercise strategies, exploring how he maintained peak performance during his NFL career and how he transitioned to a healthier lifestyle after facing injuries.
Lewan's Football Career and the Need for Change
Lewan, standing tall at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing approximately 315 pounds, was a formidable force on the offensive line. His career was marked by impressive achievements, including a lucrative 5-year, $80 million contract extension with the Titans in 2018, making him one of the highest-paid offensive linemen in the NFL at the time. However, like many professional athletes, Lewan faced his share of challenges, including injuries that ultimately led him to re-evaluate his health and fitness regimen.
After a series of injuries, including a torn ACL, Lewan recognized the need to shed some pounds and prioritize his well-being. At his heaviest, he weighed over 300 pounds, a common weight for NFL offensive linemen. The decision to lose weight came as Lewan realized that carrying such a heavy load was no longer necessary, especially when his playing days were in question. This marked the beginning of a significant transformation in his approach to diet and exercise.
Diet
The Shift to Clean Eating
To achieve his weight loss goals, Lewan significantly altered his diet. While NFL players often consume high-calorie, high-protein diets to maintain muscle mass, Lewan transitioned towards a cleaner and more balanced approach. This involved incorporating whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats into his daily meals.
Lewan emphasized the importance of consuming carbohydrates, particularly around workout times, to fuel his body. He aimed for approximately 150 grams of carbs per day, strategically timed to optimize energy levels and recovery. His meals typically consisted of lean protein sources like chicken and fish, accompanied by a cup of rice and two cups of vegetables.
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Lewan's commitment to nutrition extended beyond his daily meals. He also made conscious choices when dining out, opting for healthier options like salads and grilled chicken breasts instead of indulging in high-calorie, processed foods. He consumed 12 hard-boiled eggs a day, chicken, steak and salad. In between meals, he would have two cans of tuna. With each meal he’d add olive oil, which adds calories so he can reach his daily allotted amount.
Expert Opinions on Lewan's Diet
Nutritionists and dieticians generally recommend Lewan's clean-eating diet for anyone looking to lose weight. Whole foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats are essential for maintaining a balanced diet.
The Importance of Sustainability
One of the key concerns regarding weight loss journeys, especially for athletes like Lewan, is the long-term sustainability of the changes. According to Lewan, his new lifestyle has become an integral part of his daily routine. He enjoys his workouts and experiences an overall improvement in his well-being.
Exercise
Balancing Strength, Cardio, and Functional Training
As an offensive lineman, Lewan's workouts were previously geared towards building strength and power. His primary goal was to maintain muscle mass and explosive strength, essential attributes for success on the football field. However, with his shift in focus towards weight loss and overall health, Lewan incorporated a more balanced workout routine that included cardio, strength training, and functional exercises.
Lewan's workout regimen is effective because it includes a balance of cardio, strength, and functional training.
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Expert Opinions on Lewan's Exercise Regimen
Personal trainers and sports medicine physicians emphasize the importance of personalization when it comes to exercise programs. While Lewan's methods may be effective for him as a professional athlete, it's crucial for individuals to tailor their workouts to their specific needs and abilities.
Prioritizing Recovery and Injury Prevention
In addition to his diet and exercise regimen, Lewan also prioritized recovery and injury prevention. He utilized various strategies, including organic foods and intravenous vitamin boosts, to help his body heal and recover from the rigors of training and competition.
Comparing Lewan's Diet with DK Metcalf's
The contrast between Taylor Lewan's disciplined diet and the seemingly carefree eating habits of Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf sparked some humorous commentary. Metcalf, known for his impressive physique and athleticism, revealed that a significant portion of his diet includes large amounts of candy. This revelation drew a light-hearted reaction from Lewan, who jokingly expressed his frustration that Metcalf could maintain his physique while indulging in sugary treats.
Lewan's Advice for Aspiring Offensive Linemen
Lewan offered valuable fitness advice for aspiring offensive linemen, emphasizing the importance of ladder drills to improve footwork and athleticism. He also encouraged young athletes to embrace extra workouts, such as sit-ups, to see results over time.
Lewan's Transition to a Healthier Lifestyle
Lewan's weight loss journey exemplifies how athletes can successfully transition to a healthier lifestyle after their playing days. By adopting a clean diet, incorporating balanced exercise, and prioritizing recovery, Lewan has not only shed pounds but also improved his overall well-being.
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