The Batman star Robert Pattinson recently spoke about the “insidious” and addictive nature of getting ripped for his movie roles.
Pattinson, who portrayed the Dark Knight to critical acclaim in the 2022 film The Batman, followed the superhero movie tradition of getting into impressive shape for the role.
The 34-year-old previously criticized the pressure placed on actors to transform their bodies, even stating back in 2013 that “I don’t have a six-pack and I hate going to the gym”. This of course changed when Pattinson took on the role of Bruce Wayne/Batman in The Batman, embracing the challenge of pushing his boundaries and using prior superhero stalwarts such as Chris Hemsworth and Robert Downey Jr. as inspiration.
Pattinson’s workouts included weightlifting, military style sandbag routines on the beach, running 5-10km three times a week, and combat sports such as boxing. Pattinson even partook in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under the tutelage of Rigan Machado, whose other celebrity clients include Keanu Reeves, Ashton Kutcher, and Vin Diesel. When it came to his diet, Pattinson cut down his intake of alcohol, processed meat, and fried food.
In a recent interview with the Evening Standard Magazine, Pattinson reflected on his physical transformation for The Batman, especially the addictive and insidious mindset needed to reach his fitness and diet goals.
“Yeah, it’s crazy. And it’s very, very easy to fall into that pattern as well, even if you’re just watching your calorie intake, it’s extraordinarily addictive – and you don’t quite realise how insidious it is until it’s too late.”
Pattinson also talked about his history of experimenting with varied diets over the years.
“I have basically tried every fad you can think of; everything except consistency. I once ate nothing but potatoes for two weeks, as a detox. Just boiled potatoes and Himalayan pink salt. Apparently, it’s a cleanse… you definitely lose weight. And I tried to do keto once. I was like, ‘Oh, there’s a diet where you just eat charcuterie boards and cheese all the time?’ But I didn’t realise that you can’t have beer as it completely defeats the purpose.”
Pattinson will reprise the role of Bruce Wayne/Batman in a yet untitled sequel that is due for release in 2025. Matt Reeves will return to write and direct.