When you think of OJ Simpson, the first things that come to mind are likely his infamous trials and his football career. But in recent years, there’s been another story that’s been quietly unfolding — his significant weight loss journey. Yes, the former NFL star has been shedding pounds, and not just a few — we’re talking about a transformation of over 100 pounds. This wasn’t a quick fix or a product of fleeting trends. Instead, it was a calculated effort involving diet changes, physical workouts, and a mindset shift.
A New Beginning: The Prison Years and His Health Struggles
Before diving into the specifics of his weight loss, let’s take a step back and examine the journey that led to it. OJ Simpson, once an unstoppable force on the football field, had struggled with maintaining his health over the years. By the time he was incarcerated, Simpson had ballooned up to 300+ pounds. The “chubby” image was far from the fit running back he once was. While behind bars, Simpson was more than just dealing with legal issues. His health was a growing concern.
In prison, Simpson began to make the realization that his once-athletic body was no longer something he could take for granted. He had fallen into a sedentary lifestyle, snacking on sweets, indulging in fast food, and staying inactive. It wasn’t until he noticed he was unable to walk up stairs without becoming winded that the tipping point hit.
“I used to be able to outrun everybody, man,” he said in a rare interview. “But now, I can barely move without feeling winded. I knew it was time for a change.”
The First Steps Toward Transformation: Diet and Routine Changes
The first significant step Simpson took to transform his health was to focus on his diet. While in prison, he had access to a unique meal plan called the “diabetic diet,” designed to reduce sugar intake and control weight. This wasn’t a luxury by any means, but a reality forced on him due to his health concerns.
Simpson had been known for his love of Little Debbie snacks, ice cream, and candy bars. However, once he recognized the negative impact these foods were having on his health, he made a conscious decision to cut them out. His diet became more balanced, consisting of lean proteins, vegetables, and healthier fats. A strict focus on portion control helped him slowly, but surely, begin to shed pounds.
“I used to eat 5,000 calories a day, just snacking and indulging whenever I could,” Simpson admitted. “But in prison, I dropped that number down to 2,600. It was hard, but I had no choice if I wanted to live.”
This reduction in calorie intake, combined with healthier food choices, allowed Simpson to gradually start losing weight. But diet wasn’t the only factor — exercise also played a crucial role.
Exercise: Rebuilding His Strength
While Simpson’s time behind bars could have been the perfect excuse for physical inactivity, he didn’t let that stop him. He took advantage of his prison workouts and started to focus on building muscle and stamina. By working out with a trainer, Simpson was able to target key areas, from cardio to strength training.
He initially started with walking and light resistance training. As his fitness improved, he began incorporating more rigorous exercise routines. His focus was on compound movements, which targeted multiple muscle groups and helped burn fat while building strength. From using weights to doing bodyweight exercises like push-ups and squats, Simpson gradually saw his body transform.
“It wasn’t just about weight loss,” Simpson noted. “It was about getting strong again. I needed my body back.”
The Results: 100 Pounds Gone, A New Focus
By the time Simpson was released from prison, he had shed over 100 pounds. He went from weighing 300 pounds to a leaner and more fit 200 pounds. This incredible weight loss was not only visible in his appearance but also in his attitude and energy levels. He was no longer the sluggish, tired man who could barely walk up a flight of stairs. He was once again the energetic person who felt confident in his own skin.
His transformation didn’t just stop at physical changes — it sparked a major shift in his mindset. Simpson realized how much he had taken his health for granted before and was determined never to fall into bad habits again. He made sure to maintain a consistent workout schedule and eat balanced meals, understanding that sustainable weight loss required ongoing effort.
“I don’t want to just look good, I want to feel good,” Simpson reflected. “It’s about more than just losing weight. It’s about living my best life after everything that’s happened.”
Challenges Along the Way: Mental and Physical Struggles
Of course, the weight loss journey was not all smooth sailing. Simpson had his fair share of mental and physical struggles. The temptation of unhealthy foods was always present, and dealing with the monotony of prison meals made sticking to his diet a challenge. Additionally, as someone who had lived an extremely public life, the pressure of maintaining his new physique was ever-present.
One of the most difficult moments was when Simpson had to face the reality that his body would never be what it was during his prime as an NFL player. He had to adjust his expectations, focusing more on health rather than aesthetics. This shift in thinking became a critical aspect of his success.
“It’s not easy to let go of the idea of how you used to look,” Simpson shared. “But it’s about being healthy, not trying to get back to where I was. I had to accept that.”
The Role of Mental Health in His Weight Loss Journey
One element that cannot be overlooked in Simpson’s transformation is the importance of mental health. Weight loss is not just about the body, but also about the mind. In prison, Simpson had the time to reflect on his past, his mistakes, and his future.
Having been through so much — from the murder trial to his imprisonment — Simpson was forced to confront his past demons and begin healing mentally. This mental clarity helped him stay focused on his health goals. The decision to take control of his physical health mirrored his journey of taking control of his life, which had often been dictated by external forces.
“Losing weight was part of taking my power back,” Simpson said. “It wasn’t just the food. It was the way I was living. I had to change all of it.”
Life After Weight Loss: A New Beginning
Today, OJ Simpson’s story is one of transformation. The man who once gained fame for his athleticism now finds himself in a new battle — maintaining a healthy weight while navigating his post-prison life. However, the key to his success has been the lessons he learned during his weight loss journey. He emphasizes the importance of commitment, focus, and the mental resilience needed to reach your goals.
While Simpson has been through a lot, including enduring public scrutiny, his weight loss story offers a powerful message: you can take control of your health, no matter the circumstances.
The Road to Redemption
OJ Simpson’s weight loss journey is more than just a story of physical transformation — it’s a journey of redemption, healing, and reclaiming control over his life. He took on his health struggles head-on, proving that no matter how difficult the road, change is always possible. Whether you’re dealing with personal setbacks, health challenges, or life transitions, Simpson’s journey serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to make positive changes and focus on living your best life.
In the end, OJ Simpson found his own path to redemption, not through the media or the court of public opinion, but through a quiet determination to take care of his mind and body. And in that, he found something much more valuable than just weight loss — he found peace and purpose.
