Celebrity chef James Martin has opened up about the gruelling physical challenges of competing on Strictly Come Dancing, admitting that most viewers have no idea how tough the show really is.
The Tough Admission on New Year's Day
The candid revelation came during a special New Year's Day episode of his show, broadcast on ITV1 on Thursday 1st January 2026. Filmed at his countryside home in Hampshire, James Martin welcomed fellow chefs Sally Abe and John Hooker, as well as former England rugby star and Strictly contestant Chris Robshaw.
While discussing Robshaw's recent experience on the BBC dancefloor, Martin reflected on his own journey on the show back in 2005, where he finished in fourth place with professional partner Camilla Dallerup.
"People don't realise how difficult it is and the amount of physical work that goes into it as well," Martin stated. "When you work with those world champions, you can't believe how physically fit they are. It's a big responsibility going on, particularly trying to move you, like moving me as well, it's even harder."
Strictly Memories and Mementos
The chef also shared a sentimental detail, disclosing that he has kept a pair of his dancing shoes, autographed by the late, great Sir Bruce Forsyth. He described them as his "pride and joy".
Chris Robshaw, who was paired with five-time world champion Nadiya Bychkova, echoed the sentiment about the show's difficulty. The duo were the third couple to be eliminated after a dance-off with Balvinder Sopal and Julian Caillon.
"I love Strictly. I must admit, I'm not a confident dancer," Robshaw said. "I spoke to a lot of people and they said how amazing the experience was... I was doing the full Strictly thing, getting a spray tan to [the] sparkles... I was, of course, gutted to go out, but I improved so much."
He highlighted the stark contrast between his rugby training and dance, explaining: "The way they move, you see these professionals dance and they make it look so easy... For me, being a rugby guy where we're taught to be low, we're tackling, we're scrumming... Dancing's the complete opposite."
Culinary Delights and Festive Feasts
Beyond the dance talk, the New Year's special was packed with culinary demonstrations. James Martin prepared a steak sandwich with triple-layer onions, mustard mayonnaise, and salsa verde for his guest.
He also hosted a masterclass on creating a sticky toffee yule log. Meanwhile, John Hooker demonstrated a monkfish recipe, and Sally Abe cooked up a mushroom egg dish, ensuring the programme catered to all foodie tastes.
James Martin's Saturday Morning is available to stream on ITVX for those who missed the festive special.
