Russell Okung may have never been called “fast” during his 11-year NFL career. But now, he’s embraced a different kind of fast in finding life after football.
Almost two months ago—on Easter Sunday, to be exact—the former Carolina Panthers offensive lineman tweeted out a picture displaying the fruits of his dramatic body transformation. Once 330 pounds, a slender Okung looked precisely how the caption of the post read—”Reborn.”
So, how did he do it?
On Monday night, the 34-year-old answered that question:
The journey from being a 330+ lbs @NFL football player to 100+ lbs lighter – has been unreal! A new me, a new chapter.
The number one question I keep hearing is: "how did you do it?" pic.twitter.com/bLBDGe1h7c
— OKUNG 🕊️ (@RussellOkung) June 6, 2023
Okung added the following in a series of additional tweets:
Fasting isn’t just about weight loss. It’s about regeneration, healing & self-discovery. In quieting my physical hunger, I unlocked mental clarity and spiritual revelation. A total reset.
As an elite athlete, I was always told to eat big, stay strong. I never questioned it. But breaking away, embracing fasting, it changed everything. I’m not just lighter in weight; I’m lighter in spirit.
Fasting isn’t for everyone, I get that. But for me, it was a life-changer. The benefits are profound. Clearer skin, better digestion, improved mental focus, even my joint pain has decreased.
My journey hasn’t been just about shedding pounds; it’s also been about shedding old habits and old ways of thinking. Fasting opened a door to a healthier, happier me. It gave me control back.
Today, I stand before you – changed, empowered and inspired. Whether you’re considering fasting, or just looking to change your life, remember: The first day is always the hardest.
The 2010 sixth overall pick and two-time Pro Bowler played his final professional season with the Panthers in 2020. So, by our and Okung’s calculations, that was about three years and over 100 pounds ago.
