We are thrilled to have the opportunity to speak with Zion Clark, an inspirational and accomplished professional athlete. Zion epitomizes the phrase “no excuses,” overcoming adversity at every turn. He holds three world records and was the subject of the acclaimed documentary “Zion,” which won two Emmys at the 40th annual Sports Emmy Awards.
For those who may not be familiar with your story, could you share a bit about your journey and how wrestling changed your life?
My name is Zion Clark. I grew up in Canton, Ohio, in the foster care system, where I was given up at birth because my mom was in and out of prison and not fit to take care of a child. I was born with a rare birth defect called caudal regression syndrome, which means I was born without legs. Wrestling has been a big part of my life; it gave me an outlet to release some of my anger and frustration as a kid and provided a community of people who respected me for who I am and didn’t see me as anyone different.
During your first few wrestling seasons in high school, you had zero wins. Most people would have probably quit, but you stayed with it and became one of the best wrestlers in Ohio. Did you ever consider quitting, and what made you continue?
Yes, I definitely considered quitting during my early years as a wrestler. I lost my first 215 wrestling matches before I ever won one. However, I loved the sport so much that I kept coming back to it because of the passion I had found in it. I also like it when people tell me I can’t do something because I enjoy proving them wrong. My friends and community were in wrestling, and it wasn’t something I was going to walk away from.
Aside from wrestling, what other sports do you participate in?
By age 17, I was a professional track athlete, representing Team USA in the 100m and 200m. I love track. Watching my sister compete in high jump with a torn MCL really inspired me to get involved in the sport.
You currently hold three Guinness World Records! What are those records, and what do they mean to you?
I am the world's fastest man on two hands, have the most diamond push-ups in 3 minutes (248), and have the highest box jump on my hands. They’re cool achievements and it’s a good feeling to think I am the best in the world at something. I am going to break more records, I’ve got some cool achievements I am after this year.
How much emphasis do you put on recovery?
As a professional athlete, I put a lot into it, especially because I walk on my hands all day so it’s not often I can give my shoulders and hands a break and time off to do nothing. They are how I get around. I try to find time to just unwind. I love the sauna, ice, and also red light therapy.
You’ve been using a Joovv light over the last few years. How have you incorporated it into your routine, and what benefits have you noticed?
I have incorporated it into my routine, it’s the first thing I do in the morning is sit in front of my red light to help my muscles and lower inflammation in my body but also it wakes me up like the sun hitting your face first thing in the morning. I notice less soreness from workouts and less pain post-workout. Overall it’s been a great tool for me to use.
Aside from Joovv, what other recovery modalities are part of your recovery routine?
Cold plunge, sauna, massage work, and stretching.
How about diet and nutrition? What type of foods are you eating to stay physically fit?
I love food, my family is from the south so I enjoy BBQ, wings, and family tradition with food. But I also like cooking up protein, rice, and veggies. I like to throw down in the kitchen!
Looking back on your journey so far, what are you most proud of, both in terms of your athletic achievements and personal growth?
Representing Team USA in wrestling was a huge achievement for me, as was winning my first MMA fight. It was something everyone told me I couldn't do, but I did it, despite people saying it was unachievable. From a growth standpoint just growing up into who I am today, I am by no means perfect but for a kid raised without a family who had to fend for themselves from a young age I’ve achieved a lot on my own.
What's next for Zion Clark? What are you currently focusing on?
I am focusing on my MMA and fighting career at the moment. It's what brings me the most joy in life, so why not do what you love and makes you happy? I am still wanting to do more with track, I’ll get back to that soon. Currently training for my next fight, more speaking engagements, and spreading my message to inspire others and most importantly work hard to reform the foster care system.
