We’re all too used to hearing about the fitness transformations of celebrities, none more so than in the Hollywood sphere.
Mega-stars like Gerard Butler (300) and Chris Hemsworth (Thor) are often lauded for their ability to bulk up for starring roles on the big screen; but how much work goes into achieving a movie star physique and is it realistic for the rest of us mere mortals?
(Photo: Shutterstock) Chris Hemsworth, a fitness idol for many aspiring fans
A recent research experiment conducted by Voucherbox seeks to find out exactly that. Three members of the Voucherbox staff have decided to pick up the gauntlet thrown down by fitness nutrition manufacturer Myprotein, specifically their claim that anybody can get ripped in just 12 weeks.
If you’re thinking about getting in shape yourself then it may well be worth keeping tabs on their progress. But, in the meantime, here are some top tips if you’re looking to transform your physique in a small space of time.
(Photo: MyProtein) Serious fitness transformations require a strict dietary schedule in addition to exercise
Knowing Where to Start
This is the first step for anybody looking to improve their fitness, particularly those gunning for celeb-level hunkiness.
Before you jump straight into 50 press-ups every morning, noon and night, if you’re going to make steady progress towards your fitness goal then it’s essential to evaluate your current physical situation. The path to success is different for everybody and is likely to be dependent on your current weight, height, exercise and eating habits.
Set yourself a goal (i.e. to look vaguely like Chris Hemsworth) and decide how much time and money you’re willing to commit per week. This will form the basis of your basic diet and exercise plan. Plus, it will enable you to research options that you can afford.
Of course, nutrition/fitness programmes like the 12-week schedule offered by Myprotein are worth checking out too, but it may be better in the long run to form a schedule that is bespoke to your own needs.
(Photo: Shutterstock) Achieving the physical appearance of Chris Hemsworth, aka Thor, is easier said than done
Considering Expert Assistance?
Getting ripped is no mean feat, and it’s certainly no accident either. It takes a lot of knowledge of the human body, dietary requirements and physiology to understand how to achieve peak physical fitness. This level of knowledge doesn’t happen overnight.
It should come as no surprise that most, if not all, Hollywood heartthrobs have employed the services of a personal trainer at some point or another. When Chris Hemsworth landed the part of Thor, he immediately called on the services of a former Navy SEAL to run his fitness regime. It’s not just about expert knowledge either; if you struggle with self-motivation then having somebody bark motivational phrases at you can definitely help to keep you on track with your goal.
Sure, the Internet is an incredible source of information. If you’re willing to put in the hours then you will be able to research enough in order to form a pretty tight exercise/diet plan that should eventually get you to where you want to be.
Don’t get Disheartened
Whichever route you decide to go down, make sure you take the time to research your best options and set yourself realistic short-term targets. This is so important to keep taking continual steps towards your goal.
Remember that the circumstances for Hollywood movie stars are likely to be very different to your own. For one, they are paid millions of dollars to get in shape, which is more than enough motivation to get on a rowing machine every other day. Couple that with the fact that they have unlimited access to the best personal trainers, exercise and diet plans in the world and you may even start to feel better about your own progress.
By all means, keep that poster of Thor on your wall as something to aspire to. Just don’t get disheartened after six months if you don’t quite look as good in a tight leather vest and little red cape.