The Hollywood Physique Isn’t Real, Who Knew?

“I had to work out all the time, eat perfectly, just to look kind of bad. Not even great.”  — Paul Rudd, During an “Ant-Man” interview

Super heroes are amazing, it’s even in the name. Artists have been drawing them impossibly both ripped and jacked for decades. With calves the size of softballs and biceps that make watermelons look tiny. Recently, Hollywood has been bombarding viewers with all the super hero action we can handle. This has called for a huge demand on actors to bulk up and shred to portray larger than life figures. Unanimously, they all say it isn’t sustainable.

Cinema has long provided people with body types that make us hate ourselves. Perfect figures with perfect hair, etc. This seemingly effortless process just plain isn’t. Hugh Jackman (56-year-old) stated that getting in shape for “Deadpool & Wolverine” was a full time job, requiring no small amount of dehydration while shooting¹. It’s not just grizzled veterans saying this. Getting his epic physique for “Baywatch” led Zac Efron to develop insomnia and pretty bad depression². During interviews, he opened up around the harm of overtraining, which not only results in extreme reduction in performance but also negative mental health issues³. After 25 years, the mass populace still blames Brad Pitt in “Fight Club” for these high perfection expectations⁴. Obviously, these are male examples but the same holds true for actresses⁵.

What does this mean for the every man/woman? First off, full respect to the actors/actresses for sticking to the grind to achieve such results. Second, they are telling us it isn’t sustainable and we should listen. This doesn’t mean give up and eat fast food every day. Instead, set reasonable goals for yourself. Every body is unique. Build a personalized fitness plan based on your goals. Craft eating habits and goals which are healthy and sustainable. Check in with a licensed professional around any unexpected side affects. Then track your progress and stick to what works. Living a healthy lifestyle and looking good doesn’t require you to look like Superman. You can be your best self in reality, while he continues to be drawn with pen and paper.

Action: Review your health goals and make sure they are reasonable. Adjust what is working and what isn’t.

Disclaimer: Consult a certified professional with any questions or concerns.

Further Reading:

1. 7 actors on the shocking toll losing weight for roles took on their bodies and minds
2. Zac Efron Says His Baywatch Body Transformation Led to Insomnia and Depression
3. Overtraining Syndrome
4. 25 years on, everyone is still thirsty for Brad Pitt’s Fight Club body
5. How A-List Celebrities Get In Shape For Major Roles And Why It Isn’t A Great Long-Term Strategy