Before Zeeko Zaki became a familiar face on CBS’s FBI, he went through a remarkable transformation, losing 100 pounds over eight years. It wasn’t an instant fix, but a slow and steady process that the Egyptian-born actor tackled with patience and mindfulness.
In a 2022 interview with Entertainment Tonight, Zaki opened up about how he approached weight loss as a gradual journey rather than something that could happen overnight. He explained how his body felt different each year as he shed about 10 pounds annually. “The craziest part was just being kind of a different person every year,” Zaki said. “You get like 10 lbs. a year, I wanted to do it slow.” His focus was on taking small, manageable steps over time rather than pushing for a quick fix.
A key strategy in his journey was inspired by the book The 4-Hour Body by Timothy Ferriss. Zaki shared one of his biggest takeaways from the book, which was to eat 30 grams of protein within 30 minutes of waking up each day. This habit helped him start his mornings on the right foot and kick-start his metabolism. He even recommended this tip to others, saying, “Give it a shot.”
Despite his impressive physical changes, Zaki admitted that mentally, he still felt like the same person. It wasn’t until he looked in the mirror that he fully realized how different he had become. “Until I look in the mirror, I just still feel like that old kid,” Zaki reflected.
Zaki’s commitment to fitness actually started back in high school when he was on the rowing team. By 2019, he was already experimenting with various fitness routines, including P90X workout videos, diets, and exercises. He would switch up his workouts every six months, from yoga to CrossFit, which kept things fresh and exciting.
Even with his demanding schedule on FBI, Zaki maintained his fitness regimen by waking up at 4 a.m. for a 30-minute workout before heading to set. This early morning routine helped him build the stamina necessary for those long 12 to 14-hour shooting days. He emphasized that without being physically conditioned, it would be easy for your body to break down during such intense hours.
Looking back on his transformation, Zaki’s weight loss wasn’t just about changing his appearance; it was also about the importance of consistency, balance, and flexibility in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. His journey shows that a slow, sustainable approach is often the best way to make lasting changes.