Heavyweight Nutrition: John Cena's daily diet plan

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John Cena (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

John Cena, a name synonymous with unmatched strength, resilience, and success in the world of professional wrestling, has long been an inspiration to fitness enthusiasts and aspiring athletes worldwide.

Beyond his charismatic presence in the WWE Universe and his career in Hollywood, Cena's remarkable physique is a testament to his dedication and disciplined lifestyle.

With a career spanning over two decades, Cena has secured multiple WWE championships. His achievements are not just a reflection of his skill in the ring but also of his commitment to maintaining an extraordinary level of fitness.


John Cena's muscle-building diet

John Cena (Image via Instagram/@johnn.cenna)
John Cena (Image via Instagram/@johnn.cenna)

John Cena's muscle-building diet is meticulously designed to fuel his demanding workout routines and support his muscle recovery and growth. Consisting of seven meals a day, Cena's diet is a good mixture of protein, carbohydrates, and fats, tailored to meet the needs of his intensive training schedule.

Here's a closer look at how Cena's diet plan contributes to his physique and the benefits of each food group included in his regimen:

Meal 1 - It includes oatmeal with applesauce and raisins, alongside two whole eggs and six egg whites. This meal is a powerhouse of complex carbohydrates and high-quality protein. Oatmeal provides a steady release of energy, essential for enduring strenuous workouts, while eggs, a complete protein source, support muscle repair and growth. The addition of applesauce and raisins adds natural sweetness and a boost of antioxidants.

Meal 2 - This is simple and focuses on convenience and protein intake with a 200-250 calorie protein bar. Protein bars are an efficient way to ensure Cena gets the necessary protein to aid muscle recovery, especially when on the move.

John Cena (Image via Instagram/@johnn.cenna)
John Cena (Image via Instagram/@johnn.cenna)

Meal 3 - It consists of brown rice with vegetables and two chicken breasts. Brown rice, a complex carbohydrate, ensures a sustained energy supply, while chicken breasts offer lean protein critical for muscle maintenance. The inclusion of vegetables adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting overall health and digestion.

Meal 4 - It features whole wheat pita bread with tuna. Whole grains like whole wheat provide lasting energy, and tuna is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and support heart health.

Meal 5 - This alternates between a protein bar or a whey protein shake with water. Whey protein is renowned for its rapid absorption, making it ideal for post-workout recovery, helping to stimulate muscle protein synthesis.

Meal 6 - This includes pasta or brown rice, vegetables or salad, and chicken or fish. This meal offers a balanced mix of macronutrients: carbohydrates for energy, protein for muscle repair, and vegetables for micronutrients and fiber.

John Cena (Image via Instagram/@johnn.cenna)
John Cena (Image via Instagram/@johnn.cenna)

Meal 7 - Before bedtime, this meal consists of low-fat cottage cheese and a casein protein shake. Cottage cheese is rich in casein, a slow-digesting protein that provides a sustained release of amino acids during sleep, which is crucial for muscle recovery. The casein shake amplifies this effect, ensuring Cena's muscles receive the nutrients needed for repair and growth overnight.

The diet Cena follows is high in protein, essential for building and repairing muscles subjected to the rigors of his workout regimen. Carbohydrates are strategically included to fuel workouts and aid in recovery, while healthy fats from sources like tuna and eggs contribute to joint health and hormone production. This balance of nutrients ensures Cena's body can perform at its peak, both in the gym and in the ring.


Adopting a diet similar to John Cena's can offer numerous benefits, including improved muscle mass, better recovery times, and enhanced overall health. However, it's essential to tailor any diet to individual fitness goals, activity levels, and dietary requirements.

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