How Jeff Horn’s Diet Help Him Win Fight vs Michael Zerafa
After a dreadful defeat in September, Jeff Horn finally revenges a win in a rematch against Michael Zerafa through points in a feisty battle in Brisbane. Two out of three judges were in favour of Horn, giving him a score of 98-90 and 97-92 respectively. On the other hand, the third judge scored a controversial draw of 94-94 between the fighters.
Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-12-19/jeff-horn-michael-zerafa-enters-boxing-folklore/11812686
The critical fight showed the Hornet in his best physique yet. His sloppy diet and poor training were to blame in his previous lost against Zerafa. According to his trainers, Jeff fell on a binge-fest that made him tired and sluggish in his last fight. But now, with the guidance of Sav Manolis from Optimise Nutrition and his personal chef, Dan Hernandez, Jeff was able to take back his spotlight in the world of boxing.
Nutrition Was Key In Jeff Horn’s Rematch With Michael Zerafa
To ultimately catapult him to the top, Jeff realized that his best performances in the ring are grounded on proper nutrition during training.
“I wake up in the morning and actually feel like doing something, instead of feeling sluggish all the time”
says Jeff when he has been asked how eating right has made him feel in tip-top shape.
The nutritional intake of an elite boxer is a critical determinant of their athletic performance and ability in order to compete both physically and mentally. But because of the rigorous training demands and hectic travel schedules, many boxers, including Jeff, see diet as a chore.
Jeff Horn’s Nutrition Plan
Jeff found the right help and guidance in terms of nutrition through Sav Manolis, an APD Dietitian from Brisbane. He has been working behind the scenes with Jeff for almost 4 years now. The pair first connected through Sav’s affiliation with Dundee’s Boxing and Fitness club in Brisbane. For this fight, Sav highlighted the importance of meal planning, refueling, timing and composition of his meals.
Nutrition in boxers like Jeff Horn requires more effort. Sav uses several techniques and factors to find the right diet for Jeff. According to Sav,
“Throughout the year, I collect multiple points of data around Jeff’s weight, physique and sweat rates. Then, in the preparation stages for an event – usually 12-14 weeks out – I hone in on his dietary requirements to meet training demands and physical targets.”
In hindsight, sports nutrition gives close attention to macronutrient distribution. To name a few:
- Carbohydrates. Carbohydrate intake during exercise can maintain high levels of carbohydrate oxidation, prevents hypoglycemia, and provide a positive effect on the central nervous system.
- Protein. The benefits of protein intake throughout the day following exercise are now well recognized.
- Hydration. Athletes should also aim to maintain adequate levels of hydration and minimize fluid losses during exercise to no more than 2% of their body weight
Optimise Nutrition Is Proud of Jeff Horn
In any sport, especially in boxing, it’s how you respond to an outcome that defines your character and the qualities you hold as an individual. On behalf of Optimise Nutrition, we are proud of Jeff Horn! He is a great sportsman and athlete with a big heart.
We are proud to have supported him throughout this fight and it has been our pleasure and honour to have worked with him.
Want To Max Out Your Performance Through Greater Nutrition?
Whether you’re a boxer of a tennis player, nutrition is key to maxing out your performance and reaching your athletic goals. If you want some help and guidance with your diet and nutrition, here’s A Guide To Healthy Eating to get you started.
You can also contact me and we can discuss how to improve your performance through optimised nutrition.
