Who could ever forget the legendary rock band, Metallica? They have been around for over 4 decades and still have a huge fan following. With iconic members like James Hetfield, Kirk Hammett, Cliff Burton, and the drummer, Lars Ulrich, it is no wonder that they have now been etched into music history forever. However, they may have just been a dream if it was not for their drummer.

In a very recent interview, he revealed how his failed tennis career had paved the way for the formation of the band. From actively playing a sport to constantly being on the road, it is no surprise that the underrated star had to switch up his workout and diet.

Metallica’s Lars Ulrich discusses the changes in his lifestyle

While that first revelation may have thrown a lot of Metallica fans, Lars Ulrich recently opened up about his lifestyle changes on the SmartLess podcast. A week ago, the drummer chatted with Sean Hayes, Jason Bateman, and Will Arnett on their hilarious podcast. During their conversation, Bateman asked Ulrich what his secret to staying in shape was after over 40 years of touring. That is when the drummer began unraveling how his lifestyle changed as he switched from being a tennis player to a rock musician. He ended up crediting his diet and “mindfulness” to take care of himself.

Ulrich said if his “20 or 30-year-old self” had been on the podcast, he would have had completely different answers. But now, the star focuses on getting enough rest between shows and “barely” drinking. He also joked that he was “chained to a pelton” to ensure he stayed fit when not making appearances. While that may not sound very rockstar of the drummer, he admits that age and time have played a huge factor in getting him to make these changes.

Apart from getting his workouts in, and making sure his “protein shakes” are ready to go whenever he needs them. Lars Ulrich also revealed that his love for tennis is still alive after all these years.

Lars Ulrich’s surprising tennis revelation

After discussing his friendship with the legendary basketball coach, he also shared how Metallica came into being only after he gave up on his plans to be a professional tennis player. But while the star may have given up on pursuing the sport as a career, his love for it has not dimmed in the least. In fact, he said that “growing up around sports” was what helped him bring discipline into his later life on the road. The drummer also revealed that he still loves to play tennis and other sports that keep him “engaged“.

He even claims that Metallica has gotten the fun and messing around out of the way now. But fans may find it hard to believe that one of the biggest rock bands in the world does not cut loose anymore. However, one thing is for sure. Lars Ulrich’s love for touring and tennis will not be fading anytime soon.

What do you think about Metallica’s Lars Ulrich changing his rocker lifestyle? Let us know in the comments below.