In “Alexander Skarsgård’s Year-Long Training Journey for The Northman,” you will learn about the extensive training and nutritional cycles that Skarsgård went through for his role in the movie. The article outlines the three phases of his diet: build-up, cutting, and maintenance, and provides details about the specific macronutrients and sources that were included in each phase. Additionally, it mentions the importance of nutrition in achieving a transformation like this and emphasizes the need for a proper diet to support the intense physical demands of filming. Keep reading to discover the specific foods and meal plans that were part of Skarsgård’s training regimen and stay tuned for future videos on what he ate to get shredded and stay in shape while filming.
Training for The Northman
Introduction
In order to portray the character Amleth in the movie The Northman, actor Alexander Skarsgård dedicated nearly a year to intense training. The physical transformation required for the role was no easy feat and involved not only rigorous workouts but also maintaining a strict diet. In this article, we will delve into the details of Skarsgård’s training program and the significance of nutrition throughout his journey.
Duration of Training
Skarsgård’s training for The Northman spanned almost a year, consisting of three distinct phases: the build-up cycle, the diet cycle, and the maintenance cycle. Each phase had specific goals and required different training techniques and dietary strategies. With careful guidance from his trainer, Skarsgård underwent a comprehensive training program that enabled him to achieve the desired physique for his Viking character.
The Magnus Method Training Program App
To support his training journey, Skarsgård utilized The Magnus Method Training Program App. This app provided him with daily fitness advice and inspiration, allowing him to stay motivated and focused on his goals. The app gave him access to various training programs designed by renowned trainer Magnus Lygdback and proved to be an invaluable tool in Skarsgård’s fitness journey.
Nutritional Cycles for Alexander Skarsgård
Build-up Cycle
The first phase of Skarsgård’s nutritional plan was the build-up cycle. During this phase, the primary focus was on building muscle mass without significantly reducing body fat. To achieve this, Skarsgård followed a carefully crafted diet tailored to his specific macronutrient requirements.
Diet Cycle
The diet cycle, also known as the cutting phase, entailed reducing body fat while maintaining muscle mass. Skarsgård’s diet during this phase was strategically designed to create a calorie deficit while ensuring he received adequate nutrients to fuel his workouts and recovery.
Maintenance Cycle
Once Skarsgård had achieved his desired physique, the maintenance cycle began. This phase aimed to sustain muscle mass and low body fat during the filming of The Northman. It required careful monitoring of Skarsgård’s diet and training to ensure he maintained his physical transformation throughout the duration of the project.
Importance of Nutrition
Crucial for Transformation
Throughout Skarsgård’s training journey, nutrition played a pivotal role in his physical transformation. The saying “you are what you eat” holds true in this context, as a well-balanced diet provides the essential nutrients needed to support muscle growth, recovery, and overall health. Neglecting proper nutrition would have hindered Skarsgård’s progress and potentially compromised his performance on set.
Macronutrients
Macronutrients, which include protein, fat, and carbohydrates, are the foundation of any effective nutrition plan. Protein is crucial for building and repairing muscle tissue, while fat and carbohydrates provide the body with energy and support various physiological functions. Skarsgård’s diet incorporated a balance of these macronutrients to ensure he had the necessary fuel to sustain his intense training sessions.
Details of Build-up Phase
Caloric Intake
During the build-up phase, Skarsgård consumed approximately 3,700 calories per day. This calorie intake was carefully calculated to provide him with the necessary energy surplus to support muscle growth while minimizing fat gain.
Protein Sources
To meet his protein requirements, Skarsgård’s diet consisted of a variety of protein sources. These included lamb, beef, fish, chicken, and eggs. These protein-rich foods provided him with the essential amino acids needed for muscle repair and growth.
Carb Sources
Carbohydrates played a vital role in providing Skarsgård with energy for his intense workouts. His diet included carb sources such as pasta, potatoes, rice, quinoa, barley, and some crisp bread. These complex carbs offered sustained energy and helped replenish glycogen stores in his muscles.
Fat Sources
Contrary to popular belief, consuming dietary fat is necessary for overall health and performance. Skarsgård obtained his fat intake from sources such as fish oil, avocado, olive oil, and nuts. These healthy fats supported hormone production, joint health, and nutrient absorption.
Meal Plan
Skarsgård’s daily meals were spread out over five meals. For breakfast, he would consume a substantial omelet consisting of four to five eggs, potatoes, avocado, and various vegetables. Snacks were consumed three hours after breakfast, followed by a well-rounded lunch with protein, vegetables, and slow-release carbs like quinoa. Another snack was consumed three hours after lunch, leading up to a nutritious dinner consisting of rib-eye steak, potatoes, and vegetables.
Timing Meals with Workouts
Importance of Timing
Timing meals properly is crucial when it comes to maximizing the benefits of training. Skarsgård made sure to eat within an hour after his workouts to optimize muscle recovery and replenish glycogen stores. This post-workout nutrition routine helped support muscle growth and reduce the risk of muscle breakdown.
Post-Workout Nutrition
Post-workout meals are essential for replenishing glycogen stores and jump-starting muscle recovery. Skarsgård would consume a protein-rich meal after his workouts, such as a protein shake or a meal consisting of lean protein, complex carbs, and vegetables. This approach provided his body with the necessary nutrients to repair and rebuild muscle tissue.
Cutting Phase Challenges
Skarsgård’s Thoughts
Skarsgård’s journey through the cutting phase was not as enjoyable for him compared to the build-up and maintenance phases. The cutting phase required stricter dietary restrictions and a greater focus on losing body fat while preserving muscle mass. The discipline and sacrifices demanded by this phase were more challenging, but Skarsgård was dedicated to achieving the desired shredded look for his role in The Northman.
Upcoming Videos
To provide further insight into Skarsgård’s diet during the cutting phase, additional videos will be released discussing what he ate to get shredded and stay in shape while filming. These videos will delve into the specific strategies and meal plans implemented to achieve optimal results.
Conclusion
Alexander Skarsgård’s training for The Northman serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work required to undergo a physical transformation for a role. The combination of an effective training program and a well-balanced diet played a crucial role in Skarsgård’s ability to achieve and maintain his desired physique. By understanding the importance of nutrition, particularly macronutrients, Skarsgård was able to fuel his body for success throughout his training journey. With the support of The Magnus Method Training Program App and the guidance of his trainer Magnus Lygdback, Skarsgård’s transformation into Amleth demonstrates the incredible potential that can be unlocked through disciplined training and proper nutrition.