Martyn Ford, the 6’8” actor and bodybuilder known for his intimidating physique, recently sat down with Men’s Health to break down how he ate and trained for his upcoming role in House of David. In the video, Ford detailed his no-nonsense approach to nutrition, explaining how he fueled his body to get as big as possible for the historical series.
For Ford, food isn’t just about hitting calorie targets—it’s about energy, performance, and overall health. Having experienced both the benefits and dangers of food, he knows firsthand how nutrition can make or break physical and mental well-being.
“Food and nutrition to me is something that weighs heavy,” he says. “I don’t ever underestimate the importance of how it can work good and how it can work bad.”
With a background in bodybuilding and elite-level training, Ford’s diet philosophy is straightforward but effective: eat consistently, avoid unnecessary restrictions, and focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods.
Ford emphasizes that consistency is the most important factor when it comes to building muscle. Skipping meals, eating empty calories, or trying to “catch up” on missed meals can lead to poor energy levels and slow progress.
“If you’re going to try to put on muscle, the last thing you need to feel is tired, lethargic, and lacking motivation,” he says.
Instead of focusing on calorie counting or strict meal plans, Ford follows a more intuitive approach. He eats when he’s hungry, chooses nutrient-dense foods, and avoids overcomplicating his diet.
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Martyn Ford’s Daily Diet Breakdown
Ford’s daily nutrition revolves around whole, unprocessed foods that provide sustained energy and support muscle growth.
For breakfast, he sticks to a consistent routine: oats, egg whites, whole eggs (depending on his fat intake for the day), and fruit. Hydration is also a priority, with plenty of water to start the day.
Lunchtime offers more flexibility, but the focus remains the same—a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. His go-to meals include sweet potatoes or rice for carbs, alongside protein sources like chicken, steak, salmon, or cod. While he doesn’t completely avoid pasta, he recognizes that it doesn’t work as well for his body.
“Make sure you understand what foods work for you and what foods don’t,” Ford advises.
Dinner is a replica of lunch, with a similar balance of macronutrients. If he’s cutting, he reduces carbohydrate intake in the evening and increases healthy fats to curb cravings. Processed foods are strictly avoided.
“I definitely avoid processed foods like the plague,” he says.
While some athletes rely on tracking macros, Ford prefers to listen to his body. “Counting macros for me is a thing of the past—mainly because I’m terrible at math,” he jokes. However, he acknowledges that macro counting can be helpful for some, as long as it’s done with an understanding of overall nutrition.
Training for “House of David”: A Strongman Approach
When preparing for his role in House of David, Ford’s training goals shifted. Instead of aiming for a lean, shredded look, he was instructed to get as big as possible.
“The first time I met the director, he told me, ‘I don’t want you to be lean—I want you to be big. So just eat.’”
This meant high-calorie meals with a strong focus on carbs and fats, combined with a strongman-style training approach. His workouts included big lifts, long rest periods, and even eating between sets to maintain energy levels.
“Terrible for conditioning,” he admits. “Incredible for strength.”
Pre- and Post-Workout Nutrition & Supplementation
For Ford, pre- and post-workout nutrition is non-negotiable.
In the mornings, his pre-workout routine includes stimulants to enhance focus and energy. “I take all the stims under the sun because it makes a massive difference,” he says. However, he avoids them in the afternoon to prevent sleep disturbances.
After training, he prioritizes whole foods for recovery. If he’s able to get home quickly, he opts for a nutrient-dense meal. Otherwise, a protein shake helps kick-start the recovery process.
While he supports supplementation, he believes it should be an addition to a well-structured diet rather than a replacement. “Do your research. Understand what supplementation will work for you,” he advises.
Overcoming Anorexia and Depression
Ford’s relationship with food hasn’t always been positive. In his early 20s, he struggled with anorexia, a battle that stemmed from depression after his dreams of becoming a professional cricketer fell apart.
“It was something that I never expected to happen to me,” he says. “But it was probably the best lesson I could ever learn in life.”
During this time, he lost motivation, struggled with food, and saw his weight plummet. It wasn’t until he met a trainer—an ex-professional footballer with a simple approach to nutrition—that things started to change.
“He had no understanding of macros but a massive understanding of good and bad foods,” Ford recalls. “And for me at the time, that just made sense.”
By focusing on whole, nutrient-dense foods, Ford doubled his weight in just a few months. The transformation was so dramatic that people around him were shocked.
“I made sure that I would turn heads,” he says. “It was my way of saying to the world: I don’t need to fit in—I’m very happy with who I am.”
Final Thoughts: Find What Works for You
Ford’s approach to diet and training is built on consistency, balance, and self-awareness. He emphasizes that there’s no one-size-fits-all method—what works for one person may not work for another.
“Be sensible, don’t be greedy, and your body will give you the answers that you require,” he says.
For those looking to build muscle, improve their nutrition, or simply live a healthier lifestyle, Ford’s philosophy is clear: eat well, train smart, and listen to your body.
