When it comes to Hollywood stars with legendary physiques, Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt have both captivated audiences with how their bodies reflect their roles, so what’s their secret?

Tom Cruise has become synonymous with action, stunts, and, of course, eternal youth. Jerry McGuire’s fitness philosophy is based on functionality and longevity, and he trains five days a week to achieve that.

His blend of traditional strength training with thrilling activities like sea kayaking, rock climbing, fencing, hiking, and jogging is why he can perform his own stunts even into his 60s. 

In contrast, Brad Pitt’s lean, shredded physique is a result of weightlifting routines to target specific muscle groups. Not only that, but Pitt has also mastered martial arts and conditioning, as well as mobility training, which is noticeable in many of his fight sequences.

Let's break down both their routines shall we?

Workout Routines: Pitt vs. Cruise

While Cruise’s fitness regimen prioritises overall athleticism, versatility, and sustained performance—critical for real stunt work—Pitt’s most famous routine focused on sculpting a very specific aesthetic in a relatively short timeframe.

Tom Cruise — Workout Routine

Trains 5 days a week with a blend of strength, cardio, and functional activities.

Day 1 — Chest, Triceps, Shoulders: 

• Bench press
• Dumbbell shoulder presses
• Cable flys.

Day 2 — Activity Day: 

• Kayaking
• Rock climbing 
• Hiking 
• Jogging 
• Fencing
• Treadmill

Day 3 — Back, Biceps, Traps: 

• Deadlifts 
• Rows 
• Shrugs 
• Pulldowns 
• Curls

Day 4 — Activity Day

Day 5 — Legs & Lower Body: 

• Squats 
• Lunges 
• Leg press 
• Hamstring curls 
• Calf raises

Tom Cruise — Diet Plan

His 1200-calorie-a-day diet focuses on lean proteins, healthy fats, and veggies with no junk food or sugar. Egg whites, grilled chicken and fish, whey protein, vegetables, nuts, and blueberries are his go-to foods. He also takes supplements like multivitamins, omega-3s, and whey protein.

Brad Pitt — Workout Routine

Warm-up:

• Push-ups
• Pull-ups
• Air squats

Lifts:

• Pull-downs
• T-bar rows
• Push-ups
• Dumbbell rows
• Glute hyperextension

Brad Pitt — Diet Plan

Brad Pitt consumes a high-protein, low-carb diet to stay lean and improve muscle definition.

Breakfast: 

• Egg whites
• Grilled veggies
• Black coffee

Lunch/Dinner: 

• Chicken breast or fish

Snacks:

• Protein shakes

Would you be able to follow any one of their diets or routines? Tell us in the comments and follow Bodybuilding Bros for more fitness updates!

Written by

Ruwa Javed

Edited by

Oajaswini Prabhu