For many, Troy Aikman remains etched in memory as the formidable quarterback who led the Dallas Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories. Yet, decades after hanging up his cleats, the NFL Hall of Famer and esteemed broadcaster is charting a new course, one focused intensely on holistic well-being. At 50, Aikman declares he feels healthier than ever, a testament not just to physical prowess, but to a profound shift in mental health and dietary awareness.
The Mindful Athlete: Inner Game Stronger Than Ever
“It’s not just because of my physical health, because I’ve always been physically in shape; it’s really more my mental health and wellness—and being aware about what I put into my body,” Aikman shared with mindbodygreen. This revelation underscores a journey that began nearly a decade ago with a commitment to mindfulness.
Daily Meditation: A Non-Negotiable Practice
Aikman has embraced a consistent 30-minute meditation practice every morning for eight to ten years. A pivotal moment in this journey came with reading Michael A. Singer’s “The Untethered Soul.” “Before that, I was doing it, but I didn’t know if I was getting the benefits. Now, because of this book, I know why I’m doing it, I know I’m making progress, and it feels amazing,” he explained. This deeper understanding transformed his meditation from a routine into a powerful tool for self-awareness and mental clarity.
Aikman’s Evolving Fitness Philosophy: Prioritizing Recovery
An athlete through and through, Aikman has always maintained a high level of physical fitness. However, his approach has matured significantly in recent years, with a newfound emphasis on listening to his body and prioritizing recovery.
Structured Training with a Recovery Focus
“In the last three years, I’ve really adjusted some things and took more of an interest in how I could be my best,” he noted. His current regimen includes lifting weights four days a week. While he once engaged in daily cardio, experience and age have taught him the invaluable role of recovery. Now, cardio is limited to five days a week, with off-days dedicated to long walks for active recovery, a practice he attributes partly to the awareness gained through his meditation.
The Unexpected Benefits of Yoga
Aikman has also integrated yoga into his routine, initially seeking physical flexibility. What he discovered, however, was a profound mental benefit. “When I started yoga, I found that while it was certainly helpful physically, I was getting even more out of it for my mind than I even was for my body, and I loved it,” he revealed. This holistic approach extends to sleep, which he treats as a major priority, allowing his body to dictate wake-up times rather than relying on an alarm.
Fueling the Body: Nutrition Principles and Daily Meals
Aikman’s commitment to wellness extends deeply into his dietary choices, guided by principles that prioritize quality and conscious eating.
Inspired by Dr. Mark Hyman
His nutritional philosophy was significantly shaped by the work of Mark Hyman, M.D. “It really changed the way I think about food and nutrition, such as taking notice of the quality of my food, and where it’s sourced,” Aikman stated. His current diet emphasizes protein and vegetables, while consciously eliminating dairy and most carbs. Intermittent fasting is another cornerstone of his regimen, contributing to his overall feeling of well-being.
A Day on Aikman’s Plate
- 12 p.m.: Lunch typically consists of salmon, brown rice, and broccoli.
- 2 or 3 p.m.: A nutrient-packed green smoothie, blending spinach, almond butter, protein powder, and blueberries.
- 5 p.m.: A lighter dinner featuring a small protein source accompanied by a generous serving of vegetables.
- Bonus: Homemade granola serves as a healthy pre-bedtime snack.
EIGHT Beer: A Lifestyle Brew for the “Early Risers”
Aikman’s holistic lifestyle even extends to his choice of celebratory beverage. Recognizing that beer often accompanies moments of joy, he co-founded EIGHT, a beer designed to align with a health-conscious lifestyle.
Crafting a “Better-For-You” Option
“I wanted to see if there was a way to create something a bit better for you and complementary to my lifestyle—and that’s how EIGHT came to be,” he explained. Developed in partnership with Oregon State University’s food science department, EIGHT stands apart by containing no adjuncts, fillers, corn, rice syrup, or added sugar. Instead, it’s crafted with 100% organic grains, promising a premium taste without compromise.
For the Passionate and Purposeful
Aikman describes EIGHT’s target consumer as “early risers”—individuals driven by passion and purpose to excel. “Those are the people who have always inspired me in my life, and that’s who this beer is for,” he concluded, highlighting a product that embodies his philosophy of living a full, conscious, and balanced life.
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