Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time (GOAT), is known for his legendary career and unmatched dedication to the sport.

Did you Know Michael Jordan always ate the same food as his pre-workout meal, here's what every gym freak needs to know
Michael Jordan in the frame

Michael Jordan, widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time (GOAT), is known for his legendary career and unmatched dedication to the sport. However, one lesser-known aspect of his routine might surprise fans: his pre-workout meal of choice. According to his former teammate Charles Oakley, Jordan had a unique dietary habit that included a fast-food favorite. During an appearance on the All THE SMOKE podcast, Oakley revealed that Jordan’s pre-practice routine often included a trip to McDonald’s. “We ate a lot of McDonald’s back then,” Oakley said. “MJ ate McDonald’s every morning for breakfast. Every morning. And before games, he’d eat a steak.”

This revelation highlights Jordan’s unconventional approach to nutrition during his playing days. While most athletes adhere to strict, health-focused diets, Jordan’s preference for McDonald’s and steak before games showcases his unique routine.

A Shift in Eating Habits  
Despite his love for fast food, Jordan eventually sought to improve his diet. He hired personal trainer Tim Grover, who restructured his eating habits to include five or six small meals per day. This change aimed to optimize his energy levels and performance on the court.

However, Jordan’s fondness for McDonald’s never completely faded. During the peak of his career in the early 1990s, McDonald’s even released a special burger in his honor, called the ‘McJordan.’ The meal, priced at $1.89, featured a cheeseburger on a sesame bun with pickles, raw onions, bacon, mustard, and barbecue sauce. Initially available only in the Chicago area, the McJordan eventually expanded to other parts of the United States.

Grover’s Insights on Jordan’s Diet 

In a 1996 interview with the Chicago Tribune, Grover shared more details about Jordan’s eating habits. “Michael is not a big eater,” Grover said. “He eats only when he’s hungry and only until he feels comfortable rather than full.”

Grover explained the importance of maintaining stable energy levels throughout the day. “If he were to eat a big breakfast and then not have any food again until after practice, say around 3 p.m., then his insulin and energy levels would raise up in the morning for a while but crash in the afternoon,” he said. “It could affect his mood along with his activity level.”

Jordan’s Legacy Beyond the Court  
Michael Jordan’s dietary habits, while unconventional, are just one part of his fascinating legacy. His ability to dominate the game while maintaining such a routine speaks to his extraordinary talent and work ethic. Even as modern athletes like LeBron James and Steph Curry draw inspiration from Jordan, his unique approach to nutrition remains a quirky yet intriguing aspect of his storied career.

From his love of McDonald’s to his eventual shift toward a more structured diet, Jordan’s journey reflects his adaptability and commitment to excellence—both on and off the court.