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Matt Damon and Ralph Fiennes Showcase Remarkable Fitness Transformations Through Intense Workouts
Hollywood actors Matt Damon and Ralph Fiennes have taken their fitness journeys to extraordinary levels, each committing to significant physical transformations in preparation for their recent roles. While their approaches may differ, their dedication is evident.
Fiennes’ Journey to Physical Transformation
Ralph Fiennes, at 62, demonstrated that age is merely a number when it comes to achieving fitness goals. Preparing for his role as Odysseus in the film adaptation of “The Odyssey,” Fiennes embarked on an intense fitness regimen that began at 5:30 a.m. six days a week. According to his trainer, Dan Avasilcai, the routine consisted of weight training, running, and ballet—an unusual yet effective combination.
Fiennes articulated the aim to develop a physique that represented a hero in exile, sharing with Avasilcai, “I wanted to look ropey, like a piece of old rope.” This level of specificity reveals his commitment to embodying the character authentically.
Intense Training Phase
Two and a half months before filming, Fiennes began his rigorous fitness regime. He reportedly shed nearly 16 pounds, arriving at a lean 160 pounds on the first day of production. Avasilcai emphasized the critical nature of injury prevention during this phase, noting that training for someone in their sixties requires a different approach than for younger individuals. His workouts were meticulously planned to be both strict and safe.
Consistent running, weekly ballet classes to enhance posture, and daily massage therapy were integral components of Fiennes’ training plan. His dietary regimen was equally structured, focusing on high-protein meals with moderate fats and low carbohydrates. Avasilcai even prepared meals, occasionally surprising Fiennes with treats, such as their favorite Italian gelato.
Interestingly, to achieve a
