The following is a piece written by FC Cincinnati forward Kévin Denkey. Mercy Health is the Official Health Care Provider of FC Cincinnati.
I’m Kévin Denkey and I want to take you on my wellness journey. It’s about more than just soccer; it’s about a lifestyle change that has impacted my performance on and off the pitch.
When I became a professional, I found myself immersed in a world where my game is affected by every decision I make. One of my most critical changes was switching to a vegan diet. Let me tell you, the motivation wasn’t solely about ethics or the environment; for me, it was mostly about digestion. I realized that eating meat made me feel sluggish and heavy, whereas meals centered around lentils, vegetables, and other plant-based options gave me the lightness I craved and fueled my body better.
Initially, I dabbled with veganism and discovered a lot of positives, but cooking at home often proved challenging. When I moved to Cercle Brugge, I had a serious conversation with the club about my diet, and they fully supported my transition to going vegan. That encouragement made a big difference, and I was ready to embrace this new chapter.
Transitioning wasn’t without its challenges. I struggled to get all of my vitamins and minerals during the first week, and I ended up eating eggs for longer than I should have. Today,, though, I can say that I have adjusted my diet and found the right balance. Optimizing my nutrition is very important to me as an athlete, which means getting enough of everything I need. Another important part of my training routine is drinking water. Staying properly hydrated is vital to my performance. I ensure I’m drinking enough water, replenishing electrolytes, and getting quality sleep. After training, I maintain my routine of having a recovery shake. Sure, sometimes it feels repetitive, but it’s all part of the process. Recovery is very important to me, just like training. Speaking of recovery, I have a favorite meal that hits the spot after a long game. It’s something special from Africa—degue—along with oats and cashews. Although it may sound odd, it is exactly what I enjoy after spending time working on the pitch. Athletics are not just about physical demands; they can also bring stress. Personally, I focus on routine to manage stress. By planning my week and sticking to my schedule, I can make sure that I’m doing everything right, even if the results aren’t showing yet. I trust the process, knowing that dedication will pay off in time.
For the aspiring athletes out there—or anyone looking to live a healthier life—here’s my advice: start with hydration. Drink plenty of water, even when you don’t feel thirsty, and prioritize your sleep. I can’t stress enough how important those two things are! Rise early, stay active, and keep your diet in check. Every little choice counts!
Besides soccer, I enjoy hitting the gym to lift weights and work on core stability, stretching, and maintaining overall mobility. Biking, running, and swimming are also activities I love to incorporate into my routine. They aid in my recharging and maintain my equilibrium. I hope my journey inspires you to find what works best for you, whether in sports, health, or life. Consistency, routine, and a willingness to adapt can take you far, both on the field and beyond. Thanks for following along, and here’s to our shared journey toward health and performance!
Cheers,
Kévin