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Rod Stewart’s Unique Pool Workout Keeps Him Fit at 80
Rod Stewart may humorously assert that it requires “lots of women, drugs and wine” to maintain his active performing schedule at the age of 80, but in reality, he has shifted his focus to healthier lifestyle choices. The iconic singer, famous for hits like “Maggie May,” recently shared insights into his fitness routine, offering a glimpse into how he navigates his ninth decade.
In a candid interview with AARP, Stewart noted, “I keep myself very fit.” While he has had to alter some of his physical activities due to a knee replacement, he remains dedicated to staying active. He reminisces about his lifelong passion for soccer and maintains that he has worked with the same trainer for 38 years. This commitment to fitness is evident in his daily life.
An Impressive Home Gym
Stewart’s fitness regimen is supported by an impressive array of facilities, including a spacious indoor pool, a sizable gym, and a golf course on his property. These resources allow him to engage in diverse workouts tailored to his interests and physical needs.
Underwater Training with a Twist
One of Stewart’s most intriguing workouts involves underwater training. He explained that his trainer incorporates an unusual element into these sessions: a brick. “We do a lot of underwater training where the trainer throws a brick into the pool and I have to dive in, push the brick to the end of the pool, and come up,” he detailed. This unique approach not only keeps him fit but also adds an element of challenge and fun to his routine.
Inspiration from Frank Sinatra
Stewart also shared advice he received from the legendary Frank Sinatra, who emphasized the importance of strong lungs for singing. Sinatra once told him, “Rod, the secret to being a great singer is having powerful lungs. Do lots of underwater swimming where you hold your breath.” The singer has taken this advice to heart and integrated it into his training.
High-Speed Sprints on His Private Track
In addition to his underwater exercises, Stewart incorporates sprinting into his workouts, borrowing from Olympic sprinter Usain Bolt’s training style. He has trained on his private track, working to improve his 100-meter sprint time. “I got it down to 19 seconds by learning how to push off,” he shared. Stewart is determined to break his record and aims for a remarkable 17 seconds, which would be a world record for an 80-year-old.
Insights on Fitness and Performance
In a previous interview with a magazine, Stewart mentioned that his underwater workouts were inspired by techniques used in training the British Special Air Service, or SAS. He described the exercise as utilizing a large rubber brick that he must push along the bottom of the pool. While he admits that it can be challenging at times, he recognizes the benefits of this unique workout.
Balancing his busy performance schedule and workout commitments, Stewart makes it a point to exercise at least four days a week. His routine may include running, swimming, or playing soccer. He’s dedicated to maintaining his physical health, especially while on tour.
Addressing criticisms he faces regarding his need for rest during performances, Stewart expressed frustration. He clarified, “When I do concerts, I change costumes, mainly because I like to show off, but also because I sweat a lot. I’m not resting.” He also drew comparisons to fellow artist Taylor Swift, commenting on the different scrutiny they face regarding rest periods.
Preparing for Performances
As he prepares for his concerts, voice care becomes paramount. Stewart advised that if a singer notices their voice becoming husky, rest is essential. He regularly drinks substantial amounts of water and avoids noisy restaurants on tour to protect his vocal cords. Arriving at the venue two hours early allows him to warm up his voice while receiving a massage from his trainer.
He emphasized the importance of vocal warm-ups, stating that this routine takes about half an hour, supplemented by a session on a stationary bike to enhance his leg strength. Stewart candidly admits to enjoying a modest drink before performances, allowing himself a single rum and Coke. He proudly notes, “Can’t remember the last time I got drunk,” emphasizing his commitment to sobriety.
Recent Health Challenges
Despite his dedication to fitness, Stewart recently faced some health challenges. He was forced to cancel several concerts due to a bout of the flu. Apologizing to fans via social media, he expressed his disappointment and emphasized the impact these cancellations had on him personally.
Stewart’s Las Vegas residency has also seen cancellations due to his health, further underscoring the importance of listening to one’s body. His announcement, shared with followers on Instagram, indicated that he needed additional rest to recover properly.
A New Chapter in Touring
Earlier this year, Stewart communicated his plans to wind down large-scale world tours. However, he reassured fans that he has no desire to retire completely from performing. “I love what I do, and I do what I love,” he stated, confirming his ongoing passion for music. At 80, he is proud of his fitness levels, quipping about his ability to run 100 meters in 18 seconds.
Stewart’s Las Vegas shows will continue through early October, where he recently received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the American Music Awards, a moment he described as an honor.
Celebrating 80 in Style
This milestone birthday was celebrated with grandeur. Stewart recounted a lavish yacht party that included his family, friends, and multiple chefs. The extravagant gathering was filled with themed dress-up nights, highlighting the joy of celebrating such a significant occasion surrounded by loved ones.
Reflecting on his 80th milestone, Stewart encapsulated his philosophy on life. “You’re only 80 once,” he remarked, emphasizing that he doesn’t mind investing in unforgettable experiences. For Stewart, fitness and passion for music remain vital as he gracefully ages while continuing to entertain audiences worldwide.
