Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, is often celebrated for his relentless work ethic and groundbreaking innovations. However, his approach to physical fitness, though less publicized, is an essential component of his overall strategy to maintain productivity and energy levels. Musk’s fitness routine is pragmatic and realistic, tailored to fit his intense schedule while ensuring he stays healthy enough to manage the pressures of leading multiple companies.
Musk’s Fitness Philosophy
Elon Musk’s philosophy on fitness reflects his broader approach to life and work—efficient, no-nonsense, and focused on results. Unlike some high-profile figures who dedicate significant time to elaborate fitness routines, Musk’s workouts are designed to be as effective and time-efficient as possible. During an appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Musk candidly admitted that exercise is not something he particularly enjoys. “To be totally frank, I wouldn’t exercise at all if I could,” Musk shared, underscoring his practical attitude toward fitness (CNBC).
However, despite his ambivalence toward exercise, Musk acknowledges its importance, especially as he grows older. “The older I get, the harder it is to stay lean, that’s for sure,” he said. This statement reflects a common challenge faced by many as they age, highlighting Musk’s recognition of the need to stay physically active even if it isn’t a passion (CNBC).
Workout Routine: Strength Training Over Cardio
Given his busy schedule, Musk’s workout routine is straightforward and focused on strength training. He primarily lifts weights, which he finds to be the most efficient way to maintain his fitness. Strength training is particularly effective for Musk because it helps build and maintain muscle, which is crucial for overall health, especially as one ages. According to Hone Health, Musk prefers this type of exercise because it allows him to stay in shape without requiring excessive time in the gym.
Cardio, while beneficial, is not a major part of Musk’s fitness routine. He admits that he doesn’t “love running,” but he sometimes uses a treadmill, often while watching TV to make the experience more enjoyable. This approach highlights Musk’s tendency to multitask and make the most of his time, even when exercising. The preference for weightlifting over cardio might also stem from its efficiency in building strength, which aligns with Musk’s broader goal of maintaining functional fitness rather than achieving peak athletic performance.
Musk’s interest in martial arts, although not central to his routine, also plays a role in his physical fitness. During his conversation with Joe Rogan, Musk mentioned that he has dabbled in various martial arts, including Taekwondo, karate, judo, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. These activities not only contribute to his physical fitness but also reflect his interest in disciplines that combine physical and mental challenges (Business Insider).
Dietary Habits: Tasty Food Over Strict Dieting
When it comes to diet, Musk’s approach is similarly pragmatic. He has admitted that his eating habits are not always the healthiest, but he balances his love for tasty food with an awareness of the importance of not gaining excess weight. On the Joe Rogan podcast, Musk joked that he would prefer to eat delicious food even if it meant living a shorter life. “I’d rather eat tasty food and live a shorter life,” he said, highlighting his preference for enjoying life’s pleasures over adhering to a strict diet (CNBC).
Despite this, Musk is mindful of the impact that weight gain can have on overall health, particularly its effect on the immune system. “Being overweight is a big deal,” he noted, acknowledging the health risks associated with poor dietary choices. This awareness likely influences his efforts to control his weight, even if his diet is not as disciplined as some of his peers (CNBC).
Interestingly, Musk’s relationship with food has evolved over time. In his younger years, he was known for his frugality, famously surviving on $1 a day by eating simple foods like hot dogs and oranges. Today, however, he has a more balanced view, appreciating good food while being aware of the need to maintain his health (Business Insider).
Sleep and Recovery: A Vital Component
Despite his demanding work schedule, Musk understands the importance of sleep and recovery. He typically gets around six hours of sleep per night, which he finds sufficient for maintaining his productivity. In a 2018 interview with The New York Times, Musk mentioned that he sometimes faces a difficult choice between getting no sleep or resorting to sleep aids like Ambien to manage his rest, especially during particularly stressful periods (The New York Times).
Musk has also shared some practical advice on how to improve sleep quality, particularly by avoiding food and alcohol before bed. “Eating before you go to bed is a real bad idea, and actually negatively affects your sleep,” he said on the Joe Rogan podcast. He avoids eating or drinking alcohol at least two to three hours before bed, believing that this habit significantly enhances the quality of his sleep and overall health (CNBC).
Conclusion: Practical Fitness for a Demanding Lifestyle
Elon Musk’s approach to fitness is a reflection of his overall philosophy—focused, efficient, and pragmatic. While he may not be passionate about exercise, he recognizes its importance in maintaining the physical resilience needed to lead his companies effectively. His routine, which prioritizes strength training, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep, offers a realistic blueprint for those looking to stay fit without compromising their demanding careers.
Musk’s habits demonstrate that even the busiest individuals can find ways to integrate fitness into their lives, emphasizing that health is not just about rigorous routines but about making practical choices that support long-term well-being. His approach serves as a reminder that maintaining health doesn’t require perfection—it requires consistency and the willingness to prioritize what truly matters in sustaining a high-energy, high-impact life.
