Strong core, toned body
FINE BALANCE BETWEEN ACTING AND FITNESS
Majority of his film roles require him to have a lean and fit body, says talented actor
Caught between a sprouting career as a thespian and his flexible fitness routine – which includes an ability to distribute his body weight on a bar or park bench while upside down – Lemogang Tsipa, 26, has gained a large following for both attributes.
Having stared in both local and international productions, including Mzansi Magic’ mini-drama series iSthembiso and History Channel’s Roots, young Tsipa’s physique is one that stands out in film.
In his most recent film role, in Beyond the River, where he plays a young rowing enthusiast seeking to break into the big time, having a strong core and toned body came in handy.
“My fitness journey has been an interesting one. Over the years, I’ve experimented and played with many different concepts and approaches to the gym; it has varied from weight training to boxing, MMA and body weight training,” he says.
“The majority of the roles required me to retain a lean body. In order to stay in shape, I’ve incorporated a body weight programme that allows me to build strength and push my limits, without gaining a lot of weight. The programme that I follow is loosely based on callisthenics, which is a derivative of gymnastics and bodyweight training.
“I do several exercises using my body weight in seemingly impossible positions. The basis of my routine is pull-ups, push-ups, dips, squat variations and core exercises. It’s important to note that one’s core strength is crucial in executing a lot of these moves, especially the more advanced ones, like the human flag or muscle up.
“Fortunately, I learned the role of diet. Food is the petrol to our vehicle, if we use the wrong fuel, the engine will malfunction. I follow a very strict diet when I am training for results. It consists of mostly vegetables, about 60% vegetables 20% fruit and 20% protein.
“Protein is what builds and maintains the muscle. My intake is mostly from eggs. I average about six eggs a day, just note that I will only consume the egg whites, as the yolk contains a lot of fat.
“Most actors’ desire is to be able to fit the mould of any character they play. However, the challenge
My diet is 60% vegetables, 20% fruit and 20% protein, which builds muscle.
comes from bridging the gap between one’s current state and the transformation.
“The training takes a strain from the fast-paced lifestyle and long hours; mostly sleep must be compromised in order to just maintain the body.”