Los Angeles Lakers star Luka Dončić has unveiled a rigorous new summer workout and nutrition plan, signaling a significant body transformation that he says has left his “whole body looking better.” The five-time All-Star’s intensified regimen comes amidst ongoing discussions about his conditioning, a topic that reportedly played a role in his trade from the Dallas Mavericks to the Lakers.
A Focused Offseason After Playoff Disappointment
Following the Lakers’ first-round playoff exit against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Dončić immediately committed to overhauling his fitness. Just one day after the loss, he reportedly texted his manager to initiate his training program. This commitment aims to address long-standing criticisms regarding his weight and conditioning that have followed him throughout his career.
Dončić emphasized that this summer was “a little bit different” and “motivated [him] to be even better,” driven by a competitive spirit. He expressed a desire to be the “best that [he] can be” and “take care of [himself],” viewing his current progress as “just the start.”
The Pillars of Dončić’s Transformation: Training and Nutrition
Dončić’s offseason plan is comprehensive, involving a dedicated “Team Luka” consisting of a trainer, physiotherapist, and nutritionist. Much of his training has taken place in Croatia with long-time trainer Anze Macek and physiotherapist Javier Barrio.
Rigorous Training Schedule
The star guard is now engaging in twice-daily workouts. His mornings typically begin with a 90-minute fasted workout that includes resistance drills, weight training, and shooting. The emphasis of his training is on strength, agility, and eccentric force, which is crucial for his signature ability to decelerate. Dončić also highlighted the importance of balance and body control over just jumping high.
Strategic Basketball Break
Notably, Dončić took a full month away from basketball in May to allow his body to recover, a significant departure from previous offseasons where he had little time for rest due to commitments like the NBA Finals and international play. During this period, he focused on total-body strength and conditioning through activities like pickleball and padel, which helped reduce joint stress while engaging lateral movement.
Disciplined Dietary Changes
Dončić’s nutrition plan is equally stringent. He has adopted a gluten-free, low-sugar diet and practices intermittent fasting, typically going without food from 8:30 p.m. until noon the following day. He consumes around 250 grams of protein per day, often starting his day with an almond milk-fueled shake. His first meal of the day is consumed only after his morning workout.
Addressing Past Criticisms and Future Outlook
Dončić has been the subject of considerable discussion regarding his physique throughout his NBA career, with some reports suggesting his conditioning was a concern for the Dallas Mavericks organization prior to his trade. However, his recent transformation, prominently featured on the cover of Men’s Health magazine, is a clear statement of his commitment to his physical well-being and longevity in the league.
Dončić acknowledges that he is motivated to “quiet his critics” and to achieve the “best version of myself.” He has drawn inspiration from legendary players like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, known for their demanding workout regimens. This dedicated offseason work suggests Dončić is poised to enter the upcoming NBA season in what many observers describe as the best shape of his career, potentially elevating his already elite game.
