Strauss Zelnick, the head of Take-Two Interactive, the parent company of Rockstar Games, has shared his approach to maintaining health and fitness, emphasizing healthspan over lifespan and advocating for modern medical interventions like GLP-1 medications.
Zelnick, who has previously released a book and showcased his own fitness regimen, outlined his core health principles in a recent interview. His primary advice for a long and healthy life begins with avoiding detrimental habits. "Smoking is the factor most highly correlated with a short, unhealthy, and frankly unhappy life. Don't smoke," Zelnick stated. He also stressed the importance of avoiding the abuse of alcohol and drugs, labeling them as the "two most highly correlated factors with a bad old age, or no old age."
Beyond abstaining from harmful substances, Zelnick recommends incorporating regular exercise, suggesting a minimum of walking for 30 minutes four to five days a week. While Zelnick himself engages in more rigorous activity, considering health and fitness his hobbies, he noted that such dedication is not strictly necessary for most individuals. Complementing exercise is a "responsible" diet, which Zelnick clarified does not require extreme healthiness, but rather a conscious effort not to overindulge in unhealthy foods.
Sufficient sleep, around seven hours per night, is another cornerstone of Zelnick's advice. He warned that consistently getting less than six hours of sleep can lead to poor decision-making, both personally and professionally. Furthermore, Zelnick highlighted the significance of a robust "emotional or spiritual life," emphasizing the need for meaningful relationships and a supportive community.
When it comes to contemporary health trends, Zelnick expressed skepticism towards unregulated substances like peptides, urging caution against anything not rigorously tested. Instead, he advocates for established medical practices. For those struggling with weight management, Zelnick is a strong proponent of GLP-1 medications. "If you're carrying extra weight, take a GLP-1," he advised, asserting there is "absolutely no shame in taking them." He likened their utility to taking medication for a migraine, stating that prescribed treatments are valid tools for improving one's health. Zelnick mentioned that he personally has not struggled with his weight but has seen positive results for others in his workout group who have utilized these medications.