The main source of strength for every sportsman is protein. Every athlete has a different yet unique way of including protein in their daily diets. Some intake their protein through shakes, while others include it in their meals. The 3-time Mr. Olympia holder had a completely different approach to it. Frank Zane preferred to fulfill his daily protein requirements by directly consuming amino acid tablets.

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Zane’s meticulous focus on building a powerful physique made him one of the greatest in the history of the sport. His symmetrical and well-proportioned body earned him a great deal of respect in the world of bodybuilding. The IFBB Hall of Famer credits his bodily strength not only to the workouts but also to the amino acid tablets.

Frank Zane used to consume amino acid tablets during his prime

In an interview with Men’s Health, Zane revealed that he used to consume 30 or more amino acid tablets when he was competing. He stated, “The main thing is to get enough high quality protein in the diet. It’s challenging to get 200 grams of protein a day, so free-form amino acids are what I’ve taken for years since that’s what protein eventually becomes. I still take eight or nine amino acid tablets a day, but when I was competing I took 30 a day or more”.

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Not only protein, he also used to intake various vitamins. He said, “Back when I was competing, I’d lay off whatever I was taking and study how my body responded”. He further explained, how his Bachelor of Science degree proved to be a brownie point. “I think a background in science and math gave me the right mindset”, he added.

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Read More: Despite No Prior Experience, 3X Mr. Olympia Frank Zane Nailed His First Attempt at Deadlift in 1962

Clearly, ‘The Chemist’ knew what is right and beneficial for his body. Hence, he stuck to the basic low-carbohydrate diet and instead consumed the right supplements. This way, he fulfilled his regular bodily requirements.

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Frank Zane’s present occupation

Although Frank has an appealing physique, he believed that bodybuilding is not a lifelong career. Therefore, after his retirement, he started his own gym, “Zane Heaven” and used to train there. At present, he spreads the positive word on food, nutrition, and exercise through his YouTube channel. Moreover, he founded Zane Gallery in California, where he promotes bodybuilding.

All in all, the legend never fails to consider every nook and corner when it comes to his health, career and personal life. 

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Give us your thoughts, in the comment section, about Frank Zane’s diet back in the golden days of his career.

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Purva Jain

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Purva Jain is the Senior Editor for US Sports at EssentiallySports, heading coverage of Track & Field, Gymnastics, Tennis, Alpine Skiing, Swimming and other verticles. She oversees day-to-day operations and mentors a large team of editors and writers on uncovering unique angles to stories. A writer-turned-editor, Purva began her ES journey with standout coverage of the 2022/23 FIS Alpine Skiing World Cup and went on to capture the excitement of the 2023 Kentucky Derby for American audiences. Her reporting has spanned five major global events, including the 2023 World Athletics Championships, 2023 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships, 2024 Olympic Marathon Trials, and the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Beyond her newsroom leadership, Purva is the author of three self-published books, showcasing her creative range beyond journalism. She also brings expertise in audience engagement and storytelling strategy, helping shape how fans experience sports coverage.

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