Al Roker has amazed fans with his strict diet and workout regimen, but online doctors are now raising concerns about its potential risks. While the Today show legend is dedicated to maintaining his fitness, experts warn that his approach might not be safe for everyone. Is his routine inspiring or dangerous? Let’s take a closer look.

Al Roker’s Incredible Weight Loss Journey
Al Roker’s physical transformation over the years has been nothing short of extraordinary. His journey toward a healthier lifestyle began over two decades ago when he made the life-changing decision to undergo gastric bypass surgery in 2002.
In a candid interview with PEOPLE, the beloved Today show star opened up about his lifelong struggle with weight and the powerful reason behind his decision to take control of his health.
“To be honest, I struggled with my weight for most of my adult life,” Roker admitted. “And my dad had gotten very ill, and at one point toward the end, he made me promise that I was going to get in shape. He said, ‘Look, we both know I’m not going to be here to help you raise your kids. You’ve got to be here for your children.’”
His father’s words struck a deep chord, ultimately pushing him to take drastic action. At his heaviest, Roker weighed 340 pounds before undergoing gastric bypass surgery. The procedure helped him shed a significant amount of weight, but it was his dedication to fitness and healthy eating that allowed him to maintain his transformation.
Inside Al Roker’s Intense Daily Routine
Since his surgery, Roker has made fitness a priority, establishing a disciplined daily workout routine that starts before the sun rises. At 70 years old, his regimen is nothing short of impressive.
His mornings kick off with a treadmill session, running for 20-25 minutes, followed by light weight training. Known for his persistence, Roker has shown that age is no barrier to maintaining an active lifestyle.
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“For me, it’s about staying consistent,” he explained. “It’s about the smaller choices that you make every day that add up to the big things.”
His philosophy is simple: setbacks happen, but they shouldn’t derail the entire journey. “I think part of the mindset for folks who struggle with weight—or any issue—is that something happens, and they go, ‘Well, I’ve blown that,’ and then they give up. But that’s not the end of the world. You just start again.”
His approach to fitness is heavily influenced by his wife, Deborah Roberts, a long-time advocate of an active lifestyle.
“I used to think if I didn’t get in an hour’s workout, then I just wouldn’t do it,” Roker shared. “But Deborah helped me shift my mindset. She told me, ‘Hey, something’s better than nothing.’ And that’s where I am now—I truly believe that even a little movement is better than none.”
Doctors Raise Concerns About His Extreme Approach
While Roker’s commitment to fitness has inspired many, some online health professionals are now voicing concerns about whether his strict regimen might be too intense—especially for someone his age.
Experts warn that intense daily workouts, combined with a rigid diet, may not be sustainable or safe for everyone. Some nutritionists caution that rapid weight loss from gastric bypass surgery requires careful monitoring to avoid potential complications.
“While Roker’s transformation is admirable, people should be cautious before following extreme fitness routines, especially as they age,” said Dr. Linda Patterson, a fitness and nutrition expert. “An overly restrictive diet or excessive exercise can sometimes do more harm than good.”
Fans, however, continue to rally behind him, applauding his discipline and perseverance. Many argue that Roker’s approach has worked for him, and his commitment to health has allowed him to stay active and energized even at 70.
Is Al Roker’s Fitness Plan an Inspiration or a Warning?
Al Roker’s dedication to health and fitness is undeniable, but the concerns raised by online doctors leave many questioning whether his approach is truly sustainable for everyone. While his journey is inspiring, it’s essential to remember that what works for one person may not work for another.
What do you think? Is Al Roker’s strict regimen a model of healthy living, or do you agree with the experts who say it could be dangerous? Share your thoughts in the comments below!