Shaquille O’Neal Details Gym Routine and Weight Loss After COVID-19 Weight Gain
Former NBA star Shaquille O’Neal trains four days a week in an effort to maintain his physique, balancing heavy weightlifting with low-intensity cardio despite previous injuries, Men’s Health reported. O’Neal recently shared insights into his current fitness regimen, joking in a workout video that he is working toward looking like Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Each of O’Neal’s gym sessions lasts approximately one hour. Twenty minutes of every workout consist of low-intensity cardio, while the remaining time focuses on lifting weights. His routine includes high-rep sets of cable chest flyes followed by incline bench lat pulldowns. At 7 feet 1 inch tall, O’Neal utilizes his frame to move heavy loads on cable machines, finishing his sessions by performing classic bodybuilding poses such as the back double biceps and rear lat spread.
Cardio Limitations Following Hip Replacement Surgery
High-rep sets allow O’Neal to achieve what he considers his favorite part of training: the muscle pump. He previously told Men’s Health that his arms are looking young and defined, but noted that lower-body wear and tear has altered his approach to conditioning. A 2023 hip replacement and the physical toll accumulated from a professional basketball career prevent him from running on a treadmill. Instead, he walks during the cardio portions of his workouts, contrasting his current mobility with his past athletic career.
Sustaining Fitness After Significant Weight Loss
O’Neal takes his current training seriously after experiencing weight gain during the COVID-19 pandemic. He subsequently lost 25 kilograms and maintains his physical conditioning by focusing on strength and muscle-to-fat composition. To assist readers aiming to improve their own performance and recovery, Men’s Health featured a four-week training plan designed by elite athlete and coach Kori Sampson.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can Shaquille O’Neal no longer run on the treadmill?
O’Neal cannot run due to a 2023 hip replacement and the physical wear and tear accumulated throughout his professional basketball career. He now walks during the cardio portion of his daily workouts.
How much weight did Shaquille O’Neal lose after the COVID-19 pandemic?
O’Neal lost 25 kilograms after gaining weight during the pandemic, prompting him to focus closely on strength training and body composition.
What does Shaquille O’Neal’s weekly workout schedule look like?
He trains four days a week with sessions lasting about an hour each. Twenty minutes of every session involve low-intensity cardio, while the rest of the time is dedicated to weightlifting exercises such as cable chest flyes and lat pulldowns.
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