‘Chicago P.D.’ star Jason Beghe shares the unique way he stays fit and healthy

In Chicago P.D., the detectives are constantly on the move, but Jason Beghe, who plays Hank Voight, takes a unique approach to fitness: gardening. Rather than hitting the gym, he finds his workout in the dirt, claiming, “Gardening is badass, man! It’s not a half-hour workout. It’s a full day. It’s rough and tough.” This hands-on method keeps him active while nurturing his green thumb.

Beghe’s Healthy Lifestyle

Beghe’s fitness routine aligns well with his clean eating habits. He prioritizes a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, steering clear of fast food and soda. He emphasizes drinking plenty of water and enjoying organic food, which contributes to his overall well-being. While he hasn’t specifically attributed weight loss to gardening, his healthy lifestyle seems to keep him in great shape, easing concerns from fans about his health.

Gardening as Exercise

Surprisingly, gardening can be an effective workout. The CDC estimates that you can burn about 300 calories during a 30 to 45-minute gardening session. Activities like planting, weeding, and digging engage various muscle groups, including your abs, back, shoulders, legs, and arms. According to Dr. I-Min Lee from Harvard Medical School, many gardening tasks qualify as moderate-intensity exercise, making it a legitimate way to stay fit.

The Mental Benefits

Beyond physical fitness, gardening also offers mental health benefits. Spending time outdoors and engaging in a physical activity can boost endorphin levels, promoting happiness. For someone like Beghe, whose character often finds himself in life-threatening situations on the show, this outdoor activity can be a welcome stress reliever.

Everyday Activities as Workouts

If gardening isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other ways to incorporate exercise into daily life. Mowing the lawn, biking, or playing tennis are all great alternatives. Or, if you’re a Chicago P.D. fan, you could turn watching the show into a workout by doing squats, lunges, or push-ups whenever the characters face a tough moment. This can keep your heart rate up while enjoying the drama!

In conclusion, while traditional workouts are essential, activities like gardening prove that you can stay fit and active in unexpected ways. It’s all about finding what works for you and making the most of your time!