Ernie Hudson, the celebrated actor best known for his role as Winston Zeddemore in the classic 1984 film Ghostbusters, has unveiled the simple yet effective exercise regimen that helps him maintain flexibility and vitality at 80 years old. Speaking on NBC's Today show, Hudson detailed a daily commitment that prioritises consistency over intensity, offering inspiration for healthy aging.
A Daily Discipline of Push-Ups
The cornerstone of Hudson's fitness philosophy is a disciplined routine of push-ups performed three times each day. "When I get up, I like to do a set of pushups first thing and throughout the day," the actor explained. He aims to complete at least 100 push-ups by day's end, a goal he achieves by spreading the effort across multiple sessions. This approach, he noted, makes the task manageable without requiring lengthy workouts. "When you say 100 pushups, we're not talking about a manner of minutes," Hudson clarified. "You're not talking about an hour. It doesn't take an hour."
Flexibility Over Formal Gym Sessions
Hudson, who turned 80 in December, emphasised that his routine does not depend on gym access, making it ideal for his busy schedule, including travel for work. He sometimes incorporates squats into his regimen "just to get the blood flowing in the legs," highlighting a focus on overall mobility rather than heavy lifting. When questioned about weight training specifics, Hudson downplayed the importance of method, stressing instead the value of consistent movement. "I just think at this age it's more important to just be flexible to be able to present well, and to do the work that I do, it's required," he stated.
Motivation from Personal Observation
The actor's dedication stems from a personal desire to maintain independence and quality of life. He recounted a poignant moment that reinforced his commitment: "I was working with a good friend who was on a walker, and I thought, 'You know what, I want to avoid that as long as I can.'" This insight fuels his belief in the power of regular exercise to promote circulation and well-being. Hudson summarised his outlook with a pragmatic yet positive mantra: "Aging is inevitable, but in the meantime let me do what I can do."
A Legacy of Iconic Roles and Healthy Living
Beyond Ghostbusters, Hudson's extensive career includes memorable performances in films like The Basketball Diaries and Miss Congeniality, as well as television series such as HBO's Oz, Grace and Frankie, and Desperate Housewives. Recently, he reprised his iconic role in the 2024 sequel Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, where he viewed his character's happy ending as an "example of what's possible." In a past interview with The Independent, Hudson reflected on his aspirations for a fulfilling life, stating, "I want to be a healthy man. I want to be a man with at least a few dollars. My wife and I have been together almost 50 years. I want to be just an example of a good life."
His recent feature in Men's Health magazine showcased his lean physique, further cementing his status as a role model for fitness in later years. By sharing his straightforward push-up routine, Ernie Hudson not only demonstrates the practical steps he takes to stay agile but also inspires others to embrace proactive health habits, proving that age need not be a barrier to vitality and strength.
