NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal recently showcased his passion for bodybuilding, catching the attention of renowned bodybuilders Phil Heath and Ronnie Coleman. Taking to Instagram, Shaq displayed his muscular physique by striking a few mandatory poses. As a basketball icon, Shaq’s remarkable achievements on the court will forever be etched in history. With a successful career spanning 19 years, he secured four NBA titles and played for six different teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers from 1996 to 2004. Widely regarded as one of the greatest centers of all time, Shaq’s impact on the sport is immeasurable.
During the COVID-19 crisis, Shaq faced challenges with weight gain, reaching a staggering 401 pounds. Determined to shed the excess weight, he embarked on a rigorous four-day weekly training split. Recognizing the importance of nutrition, Shaq acknowledged that avoiding junk food played a crucial role in his weight loss journey. His workout routine consisted of 20 minutes of cardio and 40 minutes of strength training. With the goal of simultaneously building muscle and burning fat, Shaq successfully achieved his target weight of 365 pounds. At the age of 51, he continues to captivate social media with his impressive physique, solidifying his status as a bodybuilding enthusiast.
Following the circulation of Shaq’s physique on social media, eight-time Mr. Olympia Ronnie Coleman and seven-time winner Phil Heath praised his transformation. As an avid bodybuilding fan, Shaq closely follows the sport, attending events such as the 2020 Mr. Olympia as a special guest and actively promoting the competition. Additionally, he had the privilege of meeting Arnold Schwarzenegger in person at the 2021 Arnold Classic.
This isn’t the first time Shaq has teased the possibility of venturing into bodybuilding. Last October, he impressed fans with another posing update, having already shed nearly 40 pounds. While he didn’t anticipate his physique going viral, Shaq expressed his ultimate goal of becoming a sex symbol with muscles everywhere. He also expressed a desire to pose alongside his sons in underwear ads, aiming to create a timeless physique.
Despite his busy schedule, Shaq continues to build his legacy through ambitious fitness goals in retirement. He attributes his overall transformation to his unwavering commitment to strict dieting and exercise. As he continues to inspire others with his journey, Shaq’s impact extends far beyond the basketball court.
Published: 4 August 2023 | 11:17 AM EDT
