I remember watching an episode of “Parks and Recreation and saw a mostly unknown, paunchy actor playing stereotypical lay about boyfriend and immediately thinking: Chris Pratt is Hollywood’s next big action star. Well, maybe not, but now 36 year-old Chris Pratt is well on his way to Hollywood mega-stardom with roles in “Zero Dark Thirty,” “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Jurassic World.” After months of intense work outs, and dieting that included giving up beer Pratt posted a picture of himself looking very fit on social media that reportedly helped get him coveted roles.
From Gut to Guardian
Chris Pratt had 2 goals: lose a considerable amount of weight and pack on pounds of muscle at the same time. Leading up to the filming of “Guardians of the Galaxy” he worked out for 6 months with a personal trainer and nutritionist to go from fat to fit. He worked out 3-4 hours a day 6 days a week on a program that included P90X workouts, weight training, running, cycling and swimming combined in various circuit routines (Chris Pratt Workout). His trainer upped the intensity further using “muscle building cardio” that had Pratt performing sets of hill sprints and box jumps alternated with weight training or calisthenics.
Fit is a Choice
The six-pack abs Chris Pratt showed off on social media and in “Guardians of the Galaxy” required months of devotion. He admitted that a change in mindset was a key step to fulfilling his commitment to the strict regimen. The nutritional program was built around lean protein from chicken, and fish like Tilapia and Salmon. He also relied on a high-protein post workout protein shakes to boost muscle growth (source). Unlike some weight-loss plans that restrict calories, Pratt’s plan called for increasing his calories to 4,000 to support his intense workout schedule.
Hollywood vs. Reality
We all can make significant changes in our lives, eating better, exercising more and becoming more fit in the process. However, Chris Pratt and his Hollywood brethren enjoy certain advantages most of us can’t match. People working a 9-5 job with a family and other responsibilities would find it very difficult to devote 4 hours, 6 days a week to their training. Also, most people won’t have complete access to expert trainers and nutritionists who will manage every detail of your daily training and diet. Pratt’s transformation is an inspiring achievement, but not one most people can imitate.
While you may not be able to dedicate as much time as a celebrity, you can make changes in your daily routine. Remember, small changes lead to even bigger changes. Toss out the over process foods, get moving on your lunch break, and ditch the excess sugars. All of these fitness tips can make a huge impact!
Mike Phelps
Kathy O'Connor says