Zeeko Zaki, the Egyptian-born actor known for his role as Special Agent Omar Adom “OA” Zidan on the hit drama series, FBI, has not only captured audiences with his acting prowess but also inspired many with his incredible weight loss journey. This article explores Zaki's dedication to health, fitness routine, diet plan, and the determination that led to his remarkable transformation.
Who is Zeeko Zaki?
Born Zakaria Sherif Zaki on January 18, 1990, in Alexandria, Egypt, Zeeko Zaki moved to West Chester, Pennsylvania, at a young age. His passion for acting ignited in high school, leading him to participate in theater productions. Before landing his breakthrough role in FBI in 2018, where he plays Special Agent OA Zidan, Zaki took on smaller parts in films and television series, including a recurring role in Six and 24: Legacy in 2017. His career is marked by a desire to challenge stereotypes about Muslims and Arabs in media. As of May 2023, Zaki is engaged to Renee Monaco, and he maintains a strong connection to his Egyptian heritage. Zaki's journey, from community theater to leading roles, highlights his dedication to his craft and commitment to meaningful representation.
Zeeko Zaki’s Weight Loss Journey
Over the past eight years, Zeeko Zaki has undergone an impressive 100-pound weight loss transformation. Opting for a gradual approach, Zaki aimed to lose approximately 10 pounds each year. He embraced the concept of evolving into a different version of himself annually.
One key strategy Zaki employed was a tip from Timothy Ferriss' book, The 4-Hour Body: consuming 30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of waking up. This approach helped kickstart his metabolism and provide sustained energy throughout the day.
The transformation was not only physical but also emotional for Zaki. He expressed excitement about revealing his new self, mixed with nostalgia for his former self. His interest in losing weight can be traced back to his time crewing in high school, indicating that his weight loss journey was deeply personal and rooted in his past.
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Zeeko Zaki Workout Routine
Zeeko Zaki's weight loss journey has been an inspiring testament to his determination and commitment to health. His workout routine has been a varied part of his transformation, just as his diet. Zaki's workout routine has been a varied part of his transformation, just as his diet. According to Bella Carvosso, a Biomedical Scientist and Nutritionist, “Basic exercises that can be included in workout routines, for weight loss include brisk walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, bodyweight exercises (like squats, lunges, push-ups), and interval training, which can be effective for burning calories and improving fitness levels.”
Here's a breakdown of the key components of his exercise regimen:
- P90X Video Programs: Zaki began his weight loss journey by working out to P90X video programs. It is a set of 12 high-intensity online workouts that you can take up over 90 days. These programs involve different exercises that target various muscle groups, contributing to weight loss by burning calories and building muscle. That’s why Zaki’s approach to high-intensity exercises has helped him lose weight
- Yoga: Every six months, he would get obsessive about a different type of activity, like yoga. Yoga helps with weight loss by increasing flexibility, improving muscle tone, and reducing stress, which often leads to overeating.
- CrossFit: CrossFit was another passion during his transformation. It involves high-intensity functional movements that are essential for daily life and work. It's known to be highly effective in burning fat and building strength, which contributes to weight loss. Our reviewer Bella Carvosso says, “CrossFit exercise aids weight loss through its high-intensity, varied workouts that combine strength training, cardio, and functional movements. It elevates calorie burn, boosts metabolism, promotes muscle growth, and enhances overall fitness, which leads to weight loss.”
- Daily Routine: Despite a busy schedule filming for the FBI, Zaki's dedication doesn't waver. for a 30-minute workout to get the juices flowing. This early morning routine ensures that he remains active and kickstarts his metabolism for the day
- Consistency: Zaki works out four to six times a week, which he revealed in an interview. Consistent exercise is vital for steady weight loss, as it helps to maintain a higher metabolism and burn more calories throughout the day.
The Zeeko Zaki weight loss journey is a tale of varied exercises and a consistent routine based on his personal interests and aligned with his professional demands. The actor also pointed out that maintaining his health is now a necessity with 12- to 14-hour filming schedules. Regular exercise helps prevent the body from breaking down and keeps him fit and ready for the demands of his job.
Zeeko Zaki Diet Routine
Along with his commitment to regular exercise, Zaki also opted for a well-planned diet routine. Let's look at how Zeeko Zaki’s diet has been aligned with his exercise and helped him reach his weight-loss goal.
- 30 Grams of protein within 30 minutes of waking up: The key element of Zaki's diet routine, as he has revealed earlier, is to eat 30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of getting up in the morning. Protein helps in increasing metabolism and provides sufficient energy to initiate a day.
- Balanced meals throughout the day: While specific details about Zaki's daily meals have not been disclosed, the integration of balanced meals that include a variety of nutrients would be essential to his weight loss.
- Pre-workout nutrition: Zaki has mentioned that he generally works out up to six times a week and often engages in a 30-minute activity every morning before work. So, it is natural that his pre-workout nutrition would be crucial.
- Mindful eating: Though not specifically mentioned, the gradual nature of Zeeko Zaki's weight loss hints at a mindful approach to eating.
- Hydration: Staying well-hydrated would also be a key part of Zaki's diet routine. Sharing the science behind it, our contributor Mary Sabat, RDN, LD, and Ace Certified Trainer, says, “Drinking an adequate amount of water can help control appetite by promoting a feeling of fullness, which can reduce calorie intake. Staying well-hydrated also supports the body's metabolism, ensuring that it functions optimally and effectively burns calories.”
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