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
My Journey to Balance and Peak Performance
