Cameron Brink, a standout player in the WNBA, is on a dedicated journey to enhance her physical strength and muscle mass. While she already excels as a forward for the Los Angeles Sparks, she has developed a discerning approach to her fitness regimen, especially when it comes to nutrition.
Brink passionately shared with me during a Zoom call how intentional she has become about her dietary choices and workout habits. "I've never felt stronger, and that’s a direct result of my focused efforts on what I consume and how I train," she explained, conveying her commitment to improvement.
In our conversation, Brink expressed excitement about her favorite exercises, like Bulgarian split squats, and specific gym equipment, including a Keiser leg extension machine she frequently uses at her trainer's place. This level of enthusiasm for fitness was something she admits would have seemed out of character just a few years back.
She attributes this transformation to her recovery from a significant ACL injury sustained in 2024, which prompted her to prioritize weightlifting as part of her rehabilitation. Brink has also emphasized the importance of protein intake in her diet, collaborating with the nutrition app MyFitnessPal to meticulously monitor her protein consumption and overall nutritional balance.
"I had no idea how much protein my body actually requires," she reflected. At her impressive height of 6' 4"—which she humorously claims might be even more—consuming enough nutrient-rich food has become a somewhat demanding task.
"I’m engaging in activities that most people wouldn’t, so tracking my protein and macros became essential. It truly has made a significant impact on my performance," she added.
What does a day in the life of a WNBA star look like when it comes to food? For Brink, it begins the evening before, as she prepares her breakfast for the next day. She typically opts for overnight oats or chia pudding, enhanced with protein powder, fresh berries, and a drizzle of honey. This combination is designed to provide her with energy-boosting carbohydrates, including both quick-digesting and complex carbs, ensuring she feels full and focused during her training sessions. Moreover, her breakfast is power-packed with protein to aid in muscle recovery and fiber to support digestive health.
After enjoying her breakfast, Brink reserves her coffee for later in the morning, believing that having caffeine post-breakfast helps maintain stable energy levels and prevents crashes later in the day. "Transitioning to having my caffeine after breakfast has been a game-changer for me," she noted.
In addition to her meals, Brink incorporates a daily supplement routine consisting of iron, vitamin D, and creatine, known for its muscle-building properties. Lunchtime at the Sparks’ training facility often features chef-prepared dishes, with her usual choice being two pieces of salmon accompanied by Japanese sweet potatoes and asparagus, followed by a much-needed nap.
Throughout her busy schedule, Brink snacks on items like bananas, dates with almond butter, or almonds to keep her energy levels up. When game day arrives, her preferred pre-game snack is the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. "Peanut butter and jelly are my go-to! The peanut butter provides protein, while the bread offers the carbs I need to sustain my energy throughout the game," she emphasized.
On evenings when she is not competing, Brink enjoys cooking dinner with her fiancé, Ben Felter, a former Stanford rower. While he handles the protein component of their meal, she takes charge of preparing sides like pasta salad or baked potatoes.
Importantly, Brink believes in treating herself, particularly on weekends, by indulging in favorites from places like Dave’s Hot Chicken or In-N-Out Burger. She values flexibility in her diet, which allows her to avoid feelings of guilt regarding her food choices.
"I refuse to stress over whether I’ve consumed enough protein or not. It’s simply an aspect I can improve upon the next day, and that’s perfectly okay," she concluded.
In today's health-conscious world, Brink’s approach highlights an essential balance: nourishing the body while enjoying life. How do you view the relationship between strict diets and personal enjoyment? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
