Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, is famous not just for his swimming prowess but also for his incredible diet during his competitive career. The 39-year-old athlete recently shared some insights into how he managed to consume a whopping 10,000 calories a day while training for races.
In a recent interview with E! News at the premiere of his docuseries, “Fueled By,” Phelps revealed that, during his training days, junk food played a crucial role in helping him reach his daily calorie goal. He admitted that he now eats much cleaner since he’s no longer training as intensely, but back then, he had to rely on calorie-dense foods like ice cream to meet his nutritional needs.
Despite the allure of indulging in junk food without consequences, Phelps described his 10,000-calorie diet as a “full-time job for so long.” In a 2021 interview with GQ, he shared that transitioning to a regular eating routine post-career was challenging, and he ended up gaining 30 to 35 pounds after retiring from competitive swimming.
Nowadays, Phelps takes a more relaxed approach to his meals, focusing on eating what he needs and wants rather than consuming everything in sight. This shift in eating habits reflects the significant change in his lifestyle after stepping away from professional swimming.
Phelps’ journey highlights the unique dietary challenges that elite athletes face during their careers and post-retirement. While his 10,000-calorie diet may seem like a dream to some, the reality of treating eating as a job can take a toll on both physical and mental well-being. As Phelps continues to navigate life after swimming, his evolving relationship with food serves as a reminder of the importance of balance and moderation in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.