Sting, the celebrated musician, has captivated audiences for decades with his musical talent and seemingly ageless physique. At 72 years old in 2023, he continues to perform with the energy of someone a third of his age. This article delves into the workout routine and diet plan that have helped Sting maintain his health, vitality, and impressive stage presence.
A Lifelong Pursuit of Fitness
Sting's commitment to fitness is not a recent development. He has explored various fitness regimes throughout his life, including running and aerobics. "I used to run about five miles a day and I did aerobics for a while," he once said, emphasizing that he "always stayed fit" because his physical condition helps him to perform.
Discovering Yoga: A Turning Point
The turning point in Sting's fitness journey came when he discovered yoga in his late thirties. Introduced to the practice by his guitarist, Dominic Miller, who connected him with yoga instructor Danny Paradise, Sting initially had a narrow view of yoga, thinking "you’d just sit on the floor cross legged and contemplate your navel." However, he soon realized the physical demands and transformative power of yoga.
"It wasn’t until I met Danny Paradise, who became my mentor in Yoga, that I started the practice which I feel I will stay with for the rest of my life," Sting has stated. He regrets not starting earlier, believing he would be "further along the path" had he done so.
The Benefits of Yoga
Sting emphasizes that yoga is more than just a physical practice; it offers mental and spiritual benefits as well. He notes that when he consistently practices yoga in the morning, he experiences increased energy, a more composed mind, and an overall sense of well-being.
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Yoga has also helped Sting connect with his body on a deeper level. He has become more aware of his body's limitations and how past activities have affected him. "I am getting to know my body better than I ever had before and recognizing that certain blockages in my practice are a result of some kind of psychological problems," he explained. He humorously mentions his stiffness in the hips, attributing it to stubbornness and bloody-mindedness, and acknowledges his intention to become "completely fluid, completely liquid and sinuous" as he gets older.
Yoga and Longevity
Sting credits yoga with extending his career as a performer. "Two decades of yoga has given me two extra decades of this career," he told Energy Times. "I perform on stage in much the same way I did when I was in my 20s or teens, and I’m doing it just as efficiently."
Yoga Styles for Strength and Toning
For those inspired by Sting's commitment to yoga, here are some styles that can help build strength and tone muscles:
- Ashtanga: A physically demanding style rooted in vinyasa, Ashtanga involves a steady flow of movement that engages the core and promotes muscular exertion.
- Power Vinyasa: A vigorous, fitness-based style that incorporates a series of poses in sequence, leveraging body weight for added resistance.
- Hatha: A slower-paced style that combines physical postures with breathing techniques, encouraging participants to hold poses for longer periods to increase endurance.
Top 5 Yoga Moves for Strength
Kate Kendall, co-founder and director of yoga at Sydney’s Flow Athletic studio, recommends these yoga moves for strengthening and toning:
- Chaturanga (low plank): Strengthens the core, thighs, and arms.
- Urdhva mukha (up dog): Works the arms and improves chest and spinal flexibility.
- Adho mukha (down dog): Builds strength in the shoulders.
- Bakasana (crow pose): Promotes arm and core strength (more advanced).
- Planks (high and forearm): Effectively targets arms and shoulders.
The Macrobiotic Diet: Fueling Performance
In addition to yoga, Sting follows a macrobiotic diet, which emphasizes whole grains, vegetables, and the avoidance of processed foods, meat, dairy, and sugar. This dietary approach aligns with Trudie Styler's philosophy of being "eco-logically conscious of the food they eat," believing that "we treat our own bodies is by extension the way we treat the planet."
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By growing over 50 different types of organic fruits and vegetables, raising chickens and turkey, and catching his own trout, Sting ensures that he and his family consume fresh, wholesome foods. Even when on tour, Sting maintains his healthy diet by bringing a personal chef.
Indulgences in Moderation
Despite his dedication to a healthy diet, Sting allows himself occasional indulgences. "I drink alcohol. I don't smoke anything legal. I drink coffee. I like chocolate and ice cream," he admitted in an interview.
The Sting and Trudie Styler Relationship
Sting and Trudie Styler have been together since 1982 and married in 1992, share four children and believe sex is a crucial element to a successful marriage, and helps nurture a deeper relationship.
Sting was asked again about tantric sex in a 2014 interview, where he expressed: "The idea of tantric sex is a spiritual act.""I don't know any purer and better way of expressing a love for another individual than sharing that wonderful, I call it, 'sacrament.'""I would stand by it. Not seven hours, but the idea.
A Holistic Approach to Well-being
Sting's workout routine and diet plan are testaments to his holistic approach to well-being. By combining yoga with a macrobiotic diet, he has cultivated a lifestyle that supports his physical, mental, and spiritual health. His dedication to fitness and healthy eating has enabled him to maintain his energy, vitality, and impressive physique, serving as an inspiration to fans worldwide.
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