Jensen Ackles is proof that you don't need expensive equipment or overbearing gym memberships to get jacked. His physical transformation for The Boys was much the same.

After landing the role of Soldier Boy in the series in his 40s, Ackles knew he had to step up his game. The anti-hero, with his embellished masculinity, prompted him to bulk up into a more shredded, imposing physical frame. Little did he know during his early costume fitting that the extra muscles had to come from his own training, and not the outfit.

Talking about this to Men's Health, Ackles said, "Laura Jean Shannon just very pleasantly patted me on the shoulder, and she said, 'Oh, Jensen, you’re going to bring me some muscles in April when you show up to set.' And I was like, 'Oh. Oh, okay. Yeah. Challenge accepted,'"

That little nudge was all it took for the actor to accept it as a "personal challenge." Training in the basement of his house, The Boys' star scoured the internet as his coach, following Beachbody workouts and cardio routines.

Even his gym setup was minimal, using adjustable Powerblocks as weights. Despite the elementary, almost unconventional approach to gaining muscle mass, Ackles managed to add 15-20 lbs of muscle.

The diet that supported Jensen Ackles' bulk

The gym helps build muscle and sharpen the physique. But it's the nutrition that locks in the results. But, while Ackles acknowledged the discipline, he didn't want an overly restrictive, extreme diet.

"I do have kids, and I don’t want my diet to be so burdensome on myself and my family that nobody’s enjoying themselves anymore," the actor explained.

Going against the industry's grain, Ackles didn't overhaul his entire plate. Instead, he swapped out high-calorie meals with healthier, cleaner choices.

In place of fried foods and doughnuts, Ackles ate "more grilled fish, grilled chicken, steamed vegetables, and steamed rice." But he didn't cut out all indulgences from his plate, especially steak, which remained firmly on the menu at least once or twice a week.

Jensen Ackles' approach to bulking might not be the most glamorous or conventional. Rather, it shows that dedication and intention are what actually move the needle.

So, would you take a page from Ackles' book into your own fitness journey?

Written by

Proma Chatterjee