US Olympic gold medalist admits to odd choice of diet during European assignments

US Olympic gold medalist admits to odd choice of diet during European assignments

Mark Kinyanjui 14:57 - 22.08.2024

Norwood, a two-time Olympic champion in the 4 by 400m relay, has admitted to an odd choice of diet during European meets, including at the recently concluded Paris games.

American 400m runner Vernon Norwood, known for his exceptional relay performances, has made a surprising admission regarding his diet when competing in European meets, including the Paris 2024 Olympics, where he played a crucial role in securing gold for the U.S. 4x400m relay team.

Norwood, a former LSU Tiger, has had an illustrious career, particularly in relay events. During his time at LSU, he won four NCAA National Championships in just two seasons and became the 14th sprinter in collegiate history to sweep both NCAA indoor and outdoor titles in the 400 meters in the same season.

 His success extended to the international stage, where he was part of the U.S. men's 4x400m relay team that clinched gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a bronze medal with the mixed 4x400m team. 

Norwood continued his winning streak in Paris, helping the U.S. retain their crown in the men’s event, adding to his four World Championship titles in the same event.

Given his remarkable achievements, one would expect Norwood to maintain a strict, healthy diet to stay in peak condition. 

However, the 32-year-old sprinter has confessed to indulging in an unexpected food choice, especially during European escapades.

“I ain’t gonna lie though, when I go to Europe, I get that McDonalds there,” Norwood shared during a guest appearance on NightCap. 

“When the food ain’t really cracking on there, I am gonna get that McDonalds man. I ain’t hitting that McDonald’s on a regular basis.”

Despite this occasional indulgence, Norwood is highly disciplined about maintaining his optimal weight for competition. 

He revealed that he usually keeps his weight between 165 and 170 pounds, with a focus on staying lean and fit for the demanding 400m races.

“Everyone has a different velocity because I am naturally slim and lean. I am never going to get over 172 because training for that 400 is different,” Norwood explained.

As for his training regimen, Norwood detailed his diet during the early stages of the season, a period he describes as the “hardest.” He emphasized the importance of hydration and consuming specific foods to prepare his body for the grueling workouts ahead.

“I am drinking a gallon of water a day, beetroot juice, I am on it all man,” Norwood said. “That fall training is different because you gotta prepare yourself, as well as your body because it is gonna hurt that first month and you gotta take care of that body.”

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