When it comes to Giannis Antetokounmpo, basketball fans know him as the dynamic, high-flying, game-dominating “Greek Freak.” But what often gets less attention is how Giannis transforms himself every off-season, working with almost machine-like precision to improve his game. This isn’t your average run-of-the-mill gym grind. Giannis’ off-season training is a fascinating mix of unconventional techniques, relentless discipline, and an insatiable hunger for greatness.

If you’ve ever wondered how a player can maintain physical dominance while simultaneously refining myriad skills to become more unstoppable, look no further than Giannis. His unique approach to off-season training not only sets him apart from other NBA players but has also cemented his status as one of the league’s finest athletes.

Here’s a deep look at how Giannis works on his craft when the lights of the NBA season are off and why his methods could inspire players and fans alike.

The Mindset of a Perfectionist

To understand Giannis’ approach to training, you first need to understand his mindset. This is a player who isn’t satisfied with simply being good or even great. He’s constantly looking for ways to evolve his game, driven by the belief that “good enough” doesn’t exist.

Giannis’ hunger stems from his upbringing in Athens, Greece, where he and his family faced financial hardships. Those early challenges have shaped his work ethic and commitment to never taking anything for granted. Even as a two-time MVP and an NBA champion, Giannis trains as if he’s still a rookie fighting for a spot on the roster.

His motto? “Don’t stop thinking you’re the underdog.” That underdog mentality fuels every sweat-soaked session in the gym, every extra drill on the court, and every mental rep off of it. Unlike some players who might coast during the off-season, Giannis views it as his laboratory to experiment, optimize, and add new weapons to his game.

An Obsession With Skills Development

One of the standout features of Giannis’ off-season program is his laser focus on skills development. For a player whose dominance is largely tied to his size and athleticism, Giannis has worked tirelessly to polish other areas of his game, such as shooting, ball-handling, and passing.

The Mid-Range and Three-Point Grind

One of Giannis’ biggest criticisms early in his career was his inconsistent jump shot. The off-season has been his canvas for addressing that. From countless free throws under pressure to draining pull-up mid-range shots with defenders in his face, Giannis dedicates hours daily to improving his touch.

His work behind the arc is no less intense. Giannis knows defenders sag off him at the three-point line, daring him to shoot. Determined to eliminate that weakness, his training includes drills like shooting 500 three-pointers in a single session and mimicking game scenarios where he has to shoot off the dribble or catch-and-shoot.

Handling Like a Guard

Have you seen Giannis sprinting coast-to-coast and slithering through defenders like a point guard? That’s not just natural talent; it’s hard work. Giannis dedicates significant time in the off-season to ball-handling drills designed to tighten his dribble, increase his control in traffic, and make him more dangerous in transition.

He often practices against two defenders in high-pressure drills, forcing himself to maintain poise and precision. It’s why, despite his size, Giannis is one of the most trusted ball-handlers on the Bucks roster.

Passing With Vision

Giannis isn’t just an elite scorer; over the years, he’s become an elite playmaker, too. To hone his passing skills, he spends the off-season working on quick-decision drills, executing passes out of double teams, and finding open shooters on the perimeter. His emphasis on improving his court vision has made him a true all-around threat.

The Body Is the Temple

When you look at Giannis’ chiseled frame, it’s no surprise that strength and conditioning play a vital role in his off-season regimen. But what’s fascinating is Giannis’ holistic approach to his physical health. He doesn’t aim to just add muscle; his focus is on building functional strength, flexibility, and endurance, all while protecting himself from injuries.

Unconventional Strength Training

While most players stick to traditional weightlifting, Giannis mixes it up. Yes, he spends plenty of time deadlifting and squatting to build powerful legs, but he also incorporates unconventional exercises. Think flipping tractor tires, using battle ropes, and resistance band workouts. He’s even been known to run sand dunes, which helps improve leg strength and stamina.

Footwork and Balance Work

For a player who relies so heavily on agility and body control, footwork drills are non-negotiable in Giannis’ plan. During the off-season, he can often be found working with agility ladders, doing one-legged balance exercises, or practicing pivots and spin moves on the court.

Improving his balance isn’t just about looking good on highlight reels. For Giannis, these exercises are essential to absorbing contact in the paint and creating scoring opportunities in tight situations.

Recovery Revolution

For Giannis, training hard is only one side of the coin. The other? Recovery. He embraces high-tech recovery tools like cryotherapy, hyperbaric chambers, and massage guns to keep his body in peak condition. Nutrition also plays a huge role. Giannis follows a strict diet during the off-season, focusing on lean protein, whole grains, and inflammatory-reducing foods to optimize his performance.

Mental Preparation

Giannis doesn’t just train his body in the off-season; he sharpens his mind, too. Mental toughness is a key part of his success, and he dedicates time to meditation and visualization exercises.

Nearly every morning, Giannis spends time imagining himself in high-pressure scenarios, visualizing game-winning free throws, last-second defensive stops, and ferocious dunks. By the time those real-life situations arise, he’s mentally prepared to handle them.

Family and Fun

Amid all this rigorous training, Giannis also makes time for what matters most to him: his family. He often involves his brothers in his training sessions, turning the grueling workouts into bonding opportunities. They push each other, trash-talk a little, and celebrate achievements together.

And don’t forget Giannis’ love for keeping things fun and lighthearted. Whether it’s playing soccer in the park, showing off hilarious dad dances with his son Liam, or putting up goofy TikToks, Giannis makes sure his off-season isn’t all business.

The Results Speak for Themselves

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s off-season approach isn’t just unique; it’s incredibly effective. Time and again, he’s returned to the NBA even better, showing off new skills and a renewed hunger to dominate. His commitment to constant improvement has made him not only a better player but also one of the most respected leaders in the league.