Travis Kelce, the Kansas City Chiefs’ star tight end, is one of the NFL’s most recognized players both on and off the field. As he approaches his 35th birthday, Kelce has made some major lifestyle changes, particularly when it comes to his diet. During an episode of the “New Heights” podcast, which he co-hosts with his brother Jason, Kelce humorously admitted to some of the tricks he uses to maintain his physical fitness and avoid the pitfalls of ageing.
Travis Kelce’s Diet Journey
The Importance of Nutrition in Kelce’s Career
For professional athletes like Kelce, nutrition plays a pivotal role in maintaining peak performance. As players get older, their bodies don’t recover as quickly, and the effects of an unhealthy diet become more noticeable.
Realizing the Shift in Metabolism
As Kelce approaches 35, he’s noticed significant changes in how his body processes food. This is something all athletes face as they age. Kelce shared that he used to indulge in junk food, but now he’s more aware of how his diet impacts his performance on the field.
The Kansas City Chiefs player said he’s “at that point in the season” where he just has to “push it away.”newheights/InstagramAngelina Jolie and Son Pax Step Out for Lunch in New York City
Cutting Back on Sweets
In the podcast, Kelce talked about his love for doughnuts, especially from LaMar’s Donuts in Kansas City. However, he joked about having to lie to himself to avoid grabbing a handful of doughnuts and indulging. He’s had to make the tough decision to cut back on sugary treats, knowing they’ll make him feel sluggish during games.
The Psychological Battle
Lying to Himself About Food
Kelce admitted to using mental tricks to prevent himself from overeating. He humorously said he tells himself he’ll eat the doughnut tomorrow, even though he knows they won’t always be there. This is a common struggle for many athletes who battle cravings but understand the long-term consequences.
Comparing His Current Self to His Younger Years
In his younger days, Kelce didn’t worry much about what he ate, enjoying whatever he wanted. However, he admitted that now, certain foods make him feel bloated and tired. He no longer has the luxury of indulging without consequence.
Training Adjustments as He Ages
Eating for Performance
As Kelce gets older, he’s not only focusing on cutting out junk food but also ensuring that his diet supports his performance. His goal is to stay in optimal shape, which requires a balance of healthy foods and sufficient energy to keep up with the demands of an NFL season.
Avoiding the “Blob” Feeling
During the podcast, Kelce joked about feeling like a “blob” after eating certain foods. This lethargy is something he’s working to avoid by making better dietary choices.
Jason Kelce’s Experience with Diet
Learning from His Brother’s Career
Jason Kelce, a former Philadelphia Eagles player, shared similar insights. He noted that later in his career, he had to adjust his eating habits, especially the night before games. While both brothers love food, they recognize that ageing requires them to be more disciplined.
Travis Kelce is cutting back on junk food ahead of his 35th birthday.
The Kansas City Chiefs player spoke about his decision while bringing up the box of Neil’s Donuts that he and his brother, Jason Kelce, were sent
“Good thing they’re over there,” Travis said of the pastries, noting that he loves the sweet treats from LaMar’s Donuts in Kansas City, Mo.
The Impact of Diet on Recovery
Avoiding Lethargy
Kelce emphasized how sugary treats, like doughnuts, now make him feel lethargic. This impacts his energy levels on the field, which is why he’s had to be more careful about what he eats.
Recovery Times and Nutrition
Proper nutrition is essential for recovery, especially for athletes. Kelce’s new focus on diet helps him recover faster after games and practices, reducing the chances of injury.
The Role of Age in Athletic Performance
Metabolism Slowing Down
As athletes age, their metabolism slows down. Kelce has found that he can no longer burn off calories as quickly as he used to. This forces him to be more mindful of what he puts into his body.
Maintaining Peak Condition
Staying in peak condition requires more than just physical training. Athletes like Kelce need to monitor their diet closely to ensure they’re not putting on unnecessary weight or slowing down their recovery.
Embracing Lifestyle Changes
Cutting Down on Junk Food
Kelce’s shift towards healthier eating is part of his broader lifestyle change. He realizes that, as he gets older, it’s more important than ever to fuel his body with the right foods.
Staying Disciplined Off the Field
Being an NFL star comes with temptations—whether it’s indulging in sweets or having a carefree diet. Kelce has had to develop discipline to stay in shape, especially as his career progresses.
Travis Kelce’s Birthday Plans
Kelce Car Jam Event
To celebrate his 35th birthday, Kelce will be hosting the Kelce Car Jam event. This fundraiser is part of his 87th and Running Foundation, supporting youth programs.
Taylor Swift’s Absence
Kelce’s high-profile relationship with Taylor Swift has been making headlines. However, the pop star won’t be attending his birthday event due to her tour commitments in Stockholm.
Conclusion
Travis Kelce’s journey to adjust his diet as he approaches his 35th birthday is relatable to many ageing athletes. As his body changes, he’s learning to prioritize nutrition overindulgence, using mental tricks to resist cravings. By making these adjustments, Kelce aims to stay at the top of his game for as long as possible.
FAQs
Q1: Why is Travis Kelce cutting back on sweets?
A1: Kelce has noticed that sugary treats make him feel lethargic and affect his performance, so he’s reducing his intake.
Q2: How has Kelce’s diet changed with age?
A2: As Kelce gets older, he’s focusing on healthier eating to maintain peak performance and avoid feeling sluggish.
Q3: What are Kelce’s mental tricks to avoid overeating?
A3: He humorously lies to himself, telling himself he’ll eat treats tomorrow, even if he knows they won’t be available.
Q4: What is Kelce’s approach to staying fit?
A4: Kelce has shifted to a more disciplined approach, cutting back on junk food and focusing on foods that fuel his performance.
Q5: What event is Kelce hosting for his birthday?
A5: Kelce is hosting the Kelce Car Jam event to raise money for his 87th and Running Foundation.
