Tom Cruise’s iconic Mission: Impossible saga is almost three decades old now, yet he looks fit as ever in the latest outing, The Final Reckoning. Currently in his 60s, Cruise remains young at heart and flaunts a body that can outshine the physiques of men half his age. So, how does this heartthrob manage to maintain it all? Perhaps a look at the fitness routine and diet of Tom Cruise can disclose his secret.
One of the biggest stars in Hollywood’s history, with an impressive filmography and net worth, Tom Cruise inspires many. From charming audiences in romantic dramas like Cocktail (1988) and Vanilla Sky (2001) to rocking action roles in the Mission: Impossible franchise and Top Gun movies, the versatile actor has come a long way. While we can’t all have the star’s genes, taking notes of his fitness go-tos is a step closer to staying (at least) half as youthful as him.
In a recent conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, Cruise confirmed plans to keep filming well into his later years: “I actually said I’m going to make movies into my 80s; actually, I’m going to make them into my 100s.” The actor asserted that he’s “never going to stop doing action.” A gruelling workout and a strict diet are in place to make this mission of his possible.
Also read: Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning ending explained
How Tom Cruise stays fit in his 60s: Get inspired by his fitness routine
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For Cruise, exercise isn’t just about burning calories in the gym — it’s a full-on experience. He thrives on the adrenaline rush from outdoor adventures like kayaking, caving, fencing, rock climbing, and more. The actor maintains a healthy balance in his workout, combining core gym exercises with dynamic outdoor activities.
When asked how he stays young, Cruise told Men’s Health in 2023, “Sea-kayaking, caving, fencing, treadmill, weights… rock-climbing, hiking… I jog… I do so many different activities.”
He indulges in cardio exercises to burn extra calories
Every workout session should ideally kickstart with cardiovascular activities like running on a treadmill, swimming, brisk walking or cycling. These activities get your blood pumping and activate large muscle groups to jumpstart your workout session.
According to the American Heart Association, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity per week.
Tom Cruise’s workout routine includes weight training to enhance muscle strength
Weight training (also called resistance training or strength training) includes any activity in which multiple muscle groups come together to perform a task, for example, push-ups, squats, planks, lunges, etc. The main objective of weight training is to build muscle mass, strength and endurance.
Depending on your fitness goals, you can opt for bodyweight exercises, circuit training, or traditional weightlifting. The ultimate aim is to maintain flexibility, balance, and overall functional strength as you age.
Outdoor exercises are an essential part of his workout
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Taking your workout outdoors goes beyond burning calories — it’s an antidote to stress, anxiety, and fatigue. People who exercise outside experience improved mental health, stronger social connections, and numerous other benefits that enhance their quality of life. Outdoor workouts are especially important for maintaining flexibility and balance as we age.
According to reports, the Mission: Impossible star trains around five days a week; three days are dedicated to weight training and cardio, while the remaining two are reserved for outdoor activities.
From eating grilled foods to limiting calorie intake, a peek at Tom Cruise’s diet plan
To keep performing death-defying stunts in movies, Tom Cruise also maintains a disciplined diet, reportedly consuming just 1,200 calories a day. He rarely indulges in cheat meals, opts for grilled foods over fried, and keeps his carbohydrate intake to a minimum.
Calorie restriction not only promotes rapid weight loss (according to Healthline) but also helps reduce risk factors for heart disease, lowers blood sugar levels, and decreases inflammation. However, such diets are typically short-lived, lasting only a few weeks or a couple of months, since many people abandon them due to their strict nature.
Meanwhile, a noticeable reduction in carbohydrate intake can also support weight loss by curbing appetite. A low-carb diet may help lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels.
Would you try the fitness routine and diet plan followed by Tom Cruise?
Please note: Always consult a qualified healthcare or certified fitness professional before starting any workout or diet regimen.
(Hero and featured image credit: missionimpossible via Instagram)
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