Chase Mattson, best known for his role in the viral short-form video series Agent of Shadows, has shared how he built nearly 30 pounds of lean muscle in a short period.
How Chase Mattson Gained 30 Pounds of Muscle
Mattson, a model and actor, began his transformation after being invited to participate in ReelShort’s Agent of Shadows project. The series features real-life athletes and celebrities performing high-intensity, stylized action sequences.
For the project, Mattson committed to a rigorous physical preparation regimen. He trained alongside WWE superstars, including Drew McIntyre and Tom Holland, to understand the demands of elite-level physical performance.
According to the Muscle & Fitness interview, Mattson followed a structured 28-day meal plan focused on high-protein, low-carbohydrate meals. The plan emphasized whole foods, lean proteins, and precise portioning to support muscle growth without excess fat accumulation.
Key Elements of the 28-Day Meal Plan
- Snacks were limited to protein-rich options like Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, and boiled eggs.
- Carbohydrates were consumed only during training sessions to fuel performance.
- Hydration was prioritized with electrolyte-rich water and minimal sugar intake.
Mattson also incorporated strength training into his routine. He performed full-body workouts three times per week, focusing on compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.
Training with WWE Superstars
During the filming of Agent of Shadows, Mattson trained alongside WWE legends. He described the experience as both challenging and educational.
“I learned how to move with power and precision,” Mattson said in the interview. “They showed me how to maintain form under pressure, which helped me build muscle without injury.”
His training sessions included high-intensity interval training (HIIT), which improved his endurance and muscle efficiency. He also observed how WWE athletes manage recovery through sleep, nutrition, and active rest.
Why This Matters in Fitness Culture
Mattson’s journey reflects a growing trend in vertical media: celebrities using physical transformation as a form of personal and professional development.

His success demonstrates that significant muscle gain is possible with consistency, discipline, and a well-structured plan—without relying on supplements or extreme diets.
For aspiring fitness enthusiasts, his story offers a practical roadmap. It emphasizes the importance of balanced nutrition, progressive training, and real-world performance experience.
Limitations and Open Questions
The timeline is not clearly defined.
There is no mention of body fat percentage, which would help assess whether the gain was lean muscle or fat. Without this data, the full scope of the transformation remains unclear.
Additionally, the source does not detail long-term sustainability of the diet or training plan.
While the transformation is impressive, it is not representative of a general fitness journey. Individual results vary based on genetics, starting fitness level, and lifestyle.
What to Watch Next
Future updates from Mattson may include insights into how he maintains his physique post-project. His journey could inspire more actors and influencers to adopt fitness as a core part of their public image.
For those interested in a similar approach, Drew McIntyre’s training routine offers a detailed look at elite-level conditioning. Similarly, Tom Holland’s workout regimen provides insight into how celebrities maintain physical performance.
For a structured 28-day meal plan, readers can explore the original article for a full breakdown of daily meals and training schedules.
Sources & further reading
Featured image: original publisher image. Via original publisher. Image source




