When Michael Jordan was at his peak, he was basically the definition of athleticism, running circles around everyone with his crazy energy and endurance. And it was his rigorous workouts that kept him in top shape. But after hanging it up, the Bulls legend faced a new challenge — staying fit.
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In his playing days, Jordan didn’t have to worry about his calorie intake, thanks to that rigorous training. However, post-retirement, without the daily grind, MJ slipped into bad habits.
He started eating whatever he wanted, without keeping up with workouts, and his fitness took a hit. Suddenly, trimming fat became a real challenge for the legend.
“I used to eat and drink anything I wanted. Because of how active I was, I could get away with it. Once you get out of the daily routine of physical activity, you settle into a normal routine,” MJ explained to GQ. Jordan stressed that once his routine reflected that of the average person’s, it was hard to adjust his ways.
“It becomes harder to say no to a cheeseburger. It’s tough to get in that gym when you don’t have that same motivation. Before, it was, ‘Hey, I’ve got to get myself in shape because I have a season coming up.’ Now it’s all personal initiative,” he continued.
Now in his 60s, the basketball icon is getting a taste of what the rest of us have to go through in order to maintain our physical condition. It’s much more difficult to motivate yourself to work out every day when your livelihood and career aren’t depending on it.
Jordan’s sudden weight gain following his retirement wasn’t subtle. He received widespread attention for the extra pounds he put on after his final season with the Washington Wizards.
Michael Jordan’s weight gain attracted attention
Jordan was once one of the skinniest stars in the association, but that quickly changed once he retired. MJ gained a few dozen pounds in the years following his career, ironic considering his frequent jabs at Charles Barkley for his own weight problems.
Recently, MJ has been taking his vacation to the next level and put on even more weight as a result. Now up an estimated 40 pounds, fans are beginning to worry about the 14-time All-Star’s health.
“His rapid weight gain is worrisome. Belly fat is the most dangerous fat of all and puts him at high risk for diabetes. If I were him, I would make serious changes to the way I was eating before it’s too late!” one insider said.
It’s hard to not revel in the luxury that Jordan has built for himself. But if he hopes to avoid serious health issues in the coming years, MJ will have to tap into the work ethic that led to him becoming one of the greatest athletes in history.
