David and Victoria Beckham, the power couple known for their individual successes and enduring partnership, also share a commitment to fitness. Far from being a solitary pursuit, exercise has become a shared activity, strengthening their bond and pushing them to achieve their physical goals. So what exactly goes on behind the doors of the Beckham’s gym?
A United Front in Fitness
According to Men’s Health, David revealed that he and Victoria train together five or six days a week with David’s close friend Bobby Rich – a personal trainer and former Team GB judoka. Beckham stated that he had been trying to get Victoria to work out with Rich for years before she finally agreed.
“I love training with Victoria,” Beckham told Men’s Health. “In all honesty, from the moment I start to the moment I finish, I enjoy it. And I think that’s really important in workouts.”
David also credits Victoria’s workout ethic with keeping him on track, stating, “I stay motivated because my wife keeps me motivated.”
According to Women’s Health, Beckham told Men’s Health that the couple even has romantic moments in the gym. “This morning, we were very romantic, we had a little bit of Bobby Brown. Quite a romantic workout this morning.”
Victoria’s Vigorous Start
Victoria Beckham is known for her dedication and discipline when it comes to fitness. She begins each workout with 30 minutes on the StairMaster or VersaClimber, machines that Beckham jokingly admits are his “pet-hates”. This intense cardio warm-up prepares her body for the more strenuous exercises. Before working with Bobby Rich, Victoria would start each workout with a 45-minute treadmill run, followed by an hour of muscular endurance exercises.
From Footballer to Full-Body Fitness
David Beckham’s fitness regime has evolved since retiring from professional football 12 years ago. During his playing career, his training focused on lower-body strength, stamina, and maintaining a lean physique. Now, Beckham focuses on full-body training, incorporating compound movements such as deadlifts, squats, and bench presses. Upper-body size is also a focus, with Rich incorporating bodyweight exercises such as pull-ups and push-ups into Beckham’s training. According to Men’s Health, Rich believes in building proficiency in the five fundamental movement patterns:
- Press off the floor (e.g., squat)
- Pull off the floor (e.g., deadlift)
A Typical Beckham Workout
While the specific exercises may vary, a Beckham workout likely includes a combination of the following:
- Warm-up: Stretching and a light jog for 10-20 minutes.
- Strength Training: Exercises such as sled pushes, push-ups, battle ropes, kettlebell goblet squats, and kettlebell swings.
- HIIT: Medicine ball slams and other exercises to improve core strength and agility.
- Cardio: Running, cycling, hiking, and other activities to maintain stamina and cardiovascular health.
- Flexibility: Yoga and stretching to improve mobility and prevent injuries.
Diet and Nutrition: Fueling the Fitness
Both David and Victoria Beckham complement their workouts with carefully considered diets.
David Beckham’s Diet
David Beckham follows a diet that consists of lean proteins and vegetables with little fat. His typical daily diet includes:
- Breakfast: Cheese omelet
- Lunch: Chicken and vegetables (cauliflower, spinach, broccoli) cooked in olive oil
- Snacks: Nuts and yogurt
- Dinner: Chicken or fish and leafy vegetables
- Cheat Meal: Pancakes
David also follows a “fitness snacking” approach by engaging in physical activities throughout the day rather than doing everything at once.
Victoria Beckham’s Diet
Victoria Beckham’s diet has been a topic of much discussion, with reports suggesting she has eaten the same meal – grilled fish and steamed vegetables – for the past 25 years. However, Victoria has stated that she is more flexible with her diet than her husband implies, especially when she and David are being sociable and like to eat out. She focuses on eating fresh fish, fresh vegetables, salads, seeds, and nuts. Victoria also avoids dairy, oils, butter, sauces, and certain flours.
She also drinks apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach, followed by warm lemon water, and consumes three to four avocados daily.
Benefits of Training Together
The Beckhams’ shared workout routine offers numerous benefits, both physical and emotional:
- Motivation: David credits Victoria with keeping him motivated, and vice versa.
- Accountability: Working out with a partner makes it more likely that you will stick to your fitness goals.
- Enjoyment: The Beckhams clearly enjoy training together, which makes the experience more sustainable.
- Strengthened Bond: Shared activities like exercise can strengthen relationships and create lasting memories.
Is the Beckham’s Routine Right for You?
The Beckham’s workout routine is undoubtedly intense, requiring dedication and discipline. However, elements of their approach can be adapted to suit individual fitness levels and goals. If you’re looking to boost your fitness and strengthen your relationship, consider incorporating some of the Beckham’s strategies into your own life:
- Find a Workout Buddy: Partnering with a friend or loved one can provide motivation and accountability.
- Mix It Up: Incorporate a variety of exercises to keep things interesting and challenge different muscle groups.
- Focus on Full-Body Fitness: Prioritize compound movements that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
- Fuel Your Body: Eat a balanced diet of lean proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats.
- Make It Fun: Choose activities that you enjoy to make exercise a sustainable part of your lifestyle.
While emulating the Beckham’s exact routine may not be feasible or desirable for everyone, their commitment to fitness and their shared approach offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to improve their health and well-being.
