7 Cynthia Erivo’s Fitness Routine for a Broadway Star
By Alan BlakeFeb. 20 2024, Published 3:44 p.m. ET
Stepping onto the Broadway stage requires more than just talent. It demands a high physical prowess to bring characters to life with boundless energy and precision. Cynthia Erivo, the powerhouse performer and Tony Award winner is a shining example of this synergy between artistry and athleticism.
In a 2021 article from People, Erivo notes that "I like my body as it is and I workout to make sure that it's taken care of both inside and out. Really, there are no particular goals," the actress and singer, 34 stated. "It's just to maintain what I have already and keep bettering it." So, today, let’s explore the fitness routine that keeps Erivo in prime condition for her captivating Broadway performances and see how we can learn from her and take steps to be healthier ourselves.
1. Cardiovascular Stamina: Setting the Stage Aglow
Cynthia Erivo’s electrifying performances demand a robust cardiovascular system, and her fitness routine reflects this necessity. Incorporating high-intensity cardio workouts, such as running, cycling, or dance-based exercises, Erivo elevates her heart rate. Her stamina ensures she can sustain the energy needed for those mesmerizing moments under the spotlight.
2. Strength Training: Building the Foundation
The strength behind Erivo’s commanding stage presence is cultivated through strategic strength training. From weightlifting to bodyweight exercises, her routine focuses on building and toning muscle groups essential for the physical demands of Broadway performances. Strong legs, core stability, and upper body strength are all part of the ensemble in Erivo’s fitness repertoire.
3. Yoga and Flexibility: The Graceful Flourish
In the world of Broadway, movement is key. Erivo turns to yoga to enhance her flexibility and promote overall body awareness. These sessions contribute to her ability to execute complex choreography and aid in injury prevention, allowing her to maintain a seamless and graceful stage presence. Blacining grace and flexibility help individuals stay safe and healthy day in and day out.
4. Pilates Precision: Sculpting for the Spotlight
Pilates, renowned for its focus on core strength and muscle elongation, plays a crucial role in Erivo’s fitness routine. This discipline enhances her posture, stability, and control, essential elements for a performer whose body is an instrument of expression. Pilates sessions contribute to her ability to convey emotion and nuance through movement.
5. Interval Training: The Broadway Sprint
To mirror the ebb and flow of a Broadway performance, Erivo incorporates interval training into her routine. This approach alternates between bursts of high-intensity exercises and periods of rest or lower-intensity activity. The result improved her cardiovascular fitness and the ability to navigate the dynamic energy required for live theater.
6. Functional Training: Bringing Characters to Life
Erivo’s fitness routine isn’t solely about aesthetics. It’s about functionality. Functional training mimics the movements she performs on stage, ensuring her body is conditioned to meet the specific demands of each character. This tailored approach contributes to her versatility as a performer, allowing her to transition between roles with distinct physical requirements seamlessly.
7. Mind-Body Connection: Centering the Performance
Amid the physical demands, Erivo recognizes the importance of a strong mind-body connection. Practices such as meditation and mindfulness form a vital part of her routine, helping her stay centered and present on and off the stage. This mental fortitude contributes to the authenticity and emotional depth of her performances.
Conclusion
Cynthia Erivo’s commitment to her fitness routine is a testament to her holistic approach to her craft. Beyond the vocal exercises and character studies, her dedication to physical well-being ensures that every note, every step, and every gesture on Broadway is delivered with precision, strength, and an undeniable sense of artistry. As the magic of live theater sweeps audiences away, Erivo’s fitness regimen remains an unseen choreography that propels her into the limelight, night after night.