Olympic figure skater Johnny Weir follows a strict diet that resembles
an eating disorder, but he says "it gets the job done." A three-time US
national champion, it's hard to argue with results. (Photos/AP, Getty)

U.S. Olympic figure skater Johnny Weir is ready to go for the gold at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics this week, but his spartan diet is raising eyebrows.

Weir, 25, admits he eats very little to stay super-skinny in a sport where weight is a constant preoccupation.

"A lot has been discussed about my diet," Johnny said on his website.

He adds: "[My strict diet] is not always the healthiest way to do things, but it gets the job done."

HE EATS ONE MEAL A DAY

The 5'8" Weir (whose weight is listed as 134 pounds, although he looks lighter) has coffee or an Ensure protein shake for breakfast, no lunch and an early dinner consisting of a salad and a small piece of protein.

Johnny's ascetic diet is supplemented by five cups of coffee throughout the day, and no snacks.

Shockingly, Weir trains for 75 minutes in the morning and another few hours in the afternoon after a midday break running errands or napping.

'YOU FEEL HUNGER PANGS'

Amazingly, Johnny says he can get through his grueling training despite feeling hungry and faint.

"You’re still hungry and you get hunger pangs and sometimes feel faint," he admitted. "I eat the minimum of what I need for the maximum results."

He adds: "It sounds crazy to just completely cut yourself off food but it makes you stronger." [Editor's note: Weir's extreme diet is similar to that of his idol, singer Lady Gaga, who admits she starves herself to be thin.]

DEATH THREATS OVER COSTUME

Weir, who is known for his flamboyant fashion style, was recently targeted by animal activist groups after he wore a fur-trimmed costume (see left) during nationals.  

After receiving death threats over the past few weeks, Johnny decided to wear a different costume altogether.

Meanwhile, Weir is considering doing an unprecedented quadruple jump in his free-skate program.

"What do I have to lose?" Weir said to reporters Feb. 15. "I'm not a favorite for a medal here. If I feel like doing it, I'll do it."

'I WANT TO WIN PEOPLE'S HEARTS'

Johnny finished fifth at the 2006 Turin Games after placing second in the short program.

Weir, who is known more for his dramatic flair on the ice than his jumping ability, has his own goal.

"I want to win over people's hearts and minds," he says. "I want people to be transported away when I am skating."

Weir competes in the short program Feb. 16. The men's free skate competition takes place Feb. 18. 

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