Turns out, even a Time Lord had to put in the extra time, effort, and reps to transform his “terrible physique” into something camera-ready. At 43, 'Dr Who' and 'House of the Dragon' star Matt Smith proved yet again that you don’t need big, flashy workouts and fad diets to build a good physique. Simple workouts and smart habits are all it takes to build TV-ready fitness like Smith.

“I'm just looking after myself a bit more, that's all. I was in terrible shape,” he admitted to GQ magazine, as per Men’s Health. “Since I've been back in London, I've been going to the gym three times a week. It makes me feel much better about my life, I have to say. It's just good for my mind.”

Smith’s role as an intimidating dragon-riding warrior demanded that he have a physically imposing persona. Although he played football as a child, he soon neglected his physical fitness after stepping into the world of acting.

As per Men's Health, it was only in his 30s that he decided to do something about it and paid a visit to the gym. He began weight training, instantly realizing the positive impact it had on his physical and mental health.

Smith’s simple workout philosophy not only helped transform his physique but also gave him a much-needed mental boost. The confidence and strength that came with taking care of his body, consistency, and discipline at the gym helped him develop healthier habits.

Of course, Smith’s incredible transformation did not just take place in the gym. His diet and nutrition played an essential role in delivering results.

How Matt Smith keeps his fitness plan simple, starting with his diet

Smith has always been vocal about his love for beer, refusing to give it up entirely even during his training period. However, he admitted to reducing his intake of beer and paying closer attention to his daily calories.

The Briton quickly realized that it was more about his nutrition than the hours he put in the gym. While engaging in weight training at the gym, Smith shifted his focus to his diet and nutrition, even turning to counting calories as a final option.

“Still love a beer every now and then. Although I'm doing that terrible thing of counting calories. Do you know how many calories, for example, there are in a pint of beer?” he said, as per GQ Magazine.

Instead of following a strict diet plan, Smith simply focused on the important things.

The best part is that his new philosophy doesn’t require him to cut off his favorite indulgences like beer, oysters, and octopus.

“Rules are there to be broken, right?" he said with a laugh.

Smith’s approach to fitness and dieting is something that can resonate with most regular people. Do you think you could give up your favorite food and drinks for a transformation like his?

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Written by

Avantika Das