Photo Credit: Zac Efron/Youtube
An exercise expert has criticized Zac Efron's workout and diet regimen, calling several of his signature exercises "a waste of time." Dr. Mike Israetel, a professor of exercise and sport science at Leman College in New York City, shared his thoughts in a video posted in March, which has garnered over 1.1 million views. While he praised Efron's lean and well-shaped physique, he had strong words for the actor's training methods and diet claims.
Dr. Israetel particularly took issue with the shoulder exercises prescribed by Patrick Murphy, Efron's trainer for the 2017 Baywatch film. Murphy, who has also worked with stars like Keanu Reeves and Cameron Diaz, included shoulder movements that Dr. Israetel deemed ineffective, stating they "do almost nothing."
He also criticized Efron's stance on only eating organic food and avoiding processed foods, labeling these claims as misleading. Dr. Israetel's video was a response to an interview Efron did with Men's Health, where the actor discussed his intense workout regimen for Baywatch.
In his critique, Dr. Israetel acknowledged Efron's impressive physique: "First of all, he's in shape. He's lean. You can see some of the serratus muscles, the ribs separated." However, he pointed out that some of the exercises in Murphy's program, such as external rotations, were unnecessary unless addressing specific shoulder issues. He described these as a "f****** waste of time" for most people.
He also criticized a move involving standing on one leg while performing lateral raises, arguing it reduced muscle activation and stability, making it "f****** stupid" unless addressing specific ankle issues. Dr. Israetel maintained that stability is crucial for muscle activation, and such exercises diminish the effectiveness of the workout.
Regarding Efron's diet, Dr. Israetel supported intermittent fasting but recommended three to five high-protein meals throughout the day to better support muscle growth and repair. He dismissed Efron's emphasis on organic food, calling the term "nonsense" and pointing out that many healthy, beneficial foods involve some degree of processing.
"Most of the time, having minimally processed foods is a good idea, but that's not always the case," he said. "And it sure as s*** has nothing to do with organic, which is a waste of money and a f****** scam."
Dr. Israetel's candid critique offers a different perspective on the fitness routines of Hollywood stars, emphasizing the importance of effective exercises and practical dietary choices.
