Despite terrorizing his opponents on the NBA court, Shaquille O’Neal was never considered to have the ideal NBA physique. However, that has now changed for the 4x NBA champion. As a frequent TV personality, performing to sold-out crowds as a DJ, and entertaining on every platform, O’Neal is ensuring he looks good. He works hard on his body and has amazed the world with his transformation.

As an NBA athlete, ‘Big Diesel’ didn’t have the lean muscular body to go with his 7’1″ frame. But at half a century old, he’s fitter than ever and surprising even himself. He’s becoming a proven inspiration that you’re never too old to get fit.

Shaquille O’Neal sets #BodyGoals

Entertainment Tonight caught up with Shaquille O’Neal to reveal the big milestone on his body transformation journey. The 51-year-old is now weighing 351 pounds to go with his 7-foot frame after losing an astonishing 55 pounds. He proudly gushed about his achievement in the interview after doing a weigh-in.

This was no easy feat, though. Nonetheless, Shaq has declared he’s not at his goal yet. O’Neal revealed that he weighed 345 pounds when he won his first championship ring in 2000. By his next title, he was at 375 pounds. When he made it a three-peat for the Los Angeles Lakers, he was at 395.

His fitness journey began when he signed with the Miami Heat in 2004. After much hard work, he came down to 315 pounds when he won his fourth title in 2006. His goal is to get back to his 2006 title-winning shape. He last shared he had lost 40 pounds. He, however, said, “I don’t like to talk about it. I like to show.” This time, he’s giving out some tips.

Shaq revealed he relied on experts to eat right, got regular blood work, worked on nutrition, and the like. “I didn’t know what the difference between a carb and a protein. At 50 years old, I never knew.” That’s when an expert managed his diet for him. Following their advice showed results. Between diet and the gym, O’Neal also relied on supplements. Nonetheless, he didn’t forget to take a shot at his pal.

The Big Aristotle couldn’t leave Charles Barkley alone

Shaq admitted he set his goal after getting a bit “Charles Barkley“, using his fellow Inside Guy as a unit. But wellness was the primary concern. “I was getting chubby and couldn’t even walk up the stairs.” 

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Realizing his health issues, he started with smaller goals. “I was like, ‘I’m gonna lose 20,’ and then I was trying to lose 20.” He’s worked through each goal steadily, joking he has a “4.9 pack” and aiming to make an eight-pack before his next big event.

The NBA legend challenges himself constantly, like even venturing into EDM music after a successful rap career. His fitness journey has been similarly challenging. And when he overcame it, he was proud to let his hard work do the talking.

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