The metamorphosis of Chris Hemsworth, renowned for his portrayal of Thor in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has taken a surprising turn. Having showcased one of his most muscular versions in 2022’s Thor: Love and Thunder, Hemsworth is now steering his fitness journey towards the less trodden path of functional athleticism. But what precipitated this shift? And what does it signify for the actor’s legion of followers?
Functional Fitness: The New Buzzword
Amid the world of deadlifts, bench presses, and barbell curls, functional fitness often takes a back seat. However, for Hemsworth, it’s front and center. But what exactly does it entail? Simply put, functional training emphasizes exercises that mimic and aid everyday activities, veering away from aesthetics and focusing on real-life functionality.
In a recent snippet from his Instagram account, Hemsworth writes, “Doing a lot less heavy weight sessions lately and incorporating sprint work and more functional movements.” It’s a testament to his evolving approach to health and well-being. One that’s less about the superficiality of looks and more about the depth of true physical prowess.
Watch Hemsworth New Workout Routine Video below:
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Hemsworth Stated on Instagram:
Doing a lot less heavy weight sessions lately and incorporating sprint work and more functional movements. A solid full body workout routine. Feeling good 💪👊 And in case your wondering yes I left @rossedgley in the dust…..um well maybe, unfortunately the camera ran outta film so we’ll never know for certain @centrfit
A Day in Hemsworth’s New Regimen
Set against the energetic beats of “Sure Shot” by Beastie Boys, Hemsworth’s Instagram video offers a comprehensive look into his newly adapted regimen. He’s seen sprinting alongside endurance athlete Ross Edgley, giving viewers a taste of his newfound love for cardiovascular training. Hemsworth cheekily mentions how he left Edgley “in the dust”, showcasing not only his athletic prowess but also his playful spirit.
But sprints aren’t the sole focus. Hemsworth also delves into exercises like ball slams, known for building strength and explosive power. The battle ropes make an appearance too, revered for their fat-burning capabilities. Then there’s the rotational work, pivotal for core strengthening – a gentle reminder that Hemsworth, despite his divine roles, is all too human and vulnerable to injuries like the rest of us.
Addressing Concerns: The Physical Toll of Stardom
It’s not all sunshine in Hemsworth’s world. His pivot to a fitness approach that emphasizes injury prevention came from a place of concern. As revealed by his trainer, Luke Zocchi, and sports physiotherapist Michal Novotný, Hemsworth’s prior routine, combined with his packed filming commitments, had its drawbacks. Novotný sheds light on a pressing concern: “Hemsworth was not getting nearly enough rest or recovery time, and was being plagued by back pain.”
Zocchi’s insights are equally revealing. “When we started it was more, more, more and harder, harder, harder,” said Zocchi. “But Extraction 2 required so much more of him physically with stunts and all the action scenes so his sessions needed to be based around recovery and really trying to look after him.”
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Overview
Chris Hemsworth’s decision to transition from bodybuilding-focused routines to functional workouts is not merely a personal choice. It represents a broader shift in understanding fitness – acknowledging that true strength isn’t just about bulging biceps or washboard abs. Instead, it’s about building a body that’s resilient, agile, and equipped for the challenges of daily life.
For Hemsworth, this might mean sprinting on set, lifting his kids, or simply staying injury-free. While fans might miss Thor’s iconic build, they’ll surely respect and perhaps even adopt Hemsworth’s holistic approach to health. After all, as the actor’s journey underscores, it’s not about looking like a hero; it’s about feeling like one.
Featured Image @chrishemsworth (Instagram)
