Jim Rogash/Getty Rob Gronkowski is devout follower of Tom Brady's methods.
- Rob Gronkowski began following Tom Brady's diet and fitness regimen last year.
- Gronkowski said he now eats a 75% plant-based diet and has grown so fond of it; he even eats avocado ice cream now.
- Gronkowski also said that he thinks being more pliable has changed his career.
Last year, Rob Gronkowski reported to the New England Patriots following the "TB12 Method," Tom Brady's diet and fitness regimen he developed with his trainer and business partner Alex Guerrero.
Gronkowski showed up, bragging about being more pliable and eating healthier than ever. One report even indicated that Brady and Guerrero had put the sociable Gronkowski on an alcohol diet - three glasses of water for each alcoholic drink (we tried it: it's not easy).
Now, after playing 14 of 16 games last season and all five games this year, Gronkowski is still a devoted follower of Brady's methods.
"Just learning from him, and how to take care of your body is just a great process," Gronkowski said. He spoke to Business Insider to promote his partnership with Honey Nut Cheerios, in which he's attempting to raise $100,000 for his charity through family participation.
"It's unreal to learn from him," he said.
Brady's diet is famously strict. He follows a mostly plant-based diet but excludes nightshades, which include tomatoes, peppers, and mushrooms. He also doesn't eat many sweets, avoids caffeine, and mostly avoids alcohol. Even some fruits are off his list of acceptable foods.
"I'm not super, super crazy, but I'm pretty crazy about [his diet]," Gronkowski said. "I like to go with mostly plant-based diet. I'd say about 75% and then the other 25%, just keeping it clean but eating whatever. Always making sure I get my fruits and veggies in every day."
Gronkowski added: "I've definitely taken advantage of those opportunities and had plenty of crazy meals I never thought I'd have, never thought I would enjoy ... For example, his avocado ice cream. It's delicious."
Brady and Guerrero's methods have driven a bit of a wedge within the Patriots in recent years. ESPN reported last season that some players felt confused about whether to follow Brady and Guerrero's advice or the Patriots'. Brady also reportedly felt that Bill Belichick's methods were out-dated, while Belichick felt he was losing grip on the team.
Still, the results for Brady and Gronkowski are hard to deny. Amid rumors of retirement, Gronkowski announced his return to the team, saying he feels more pliable. He told BI that he thinks it has changed his career and helped extend it.
"I think it's huge," Gronkowski said. "I think it's helped me tremendously. I think it helps me keep playing football and has extended my career."
You can read more about Gronkowski's partnership with the Honey Nut Cheerios Good Rewards program here.