Acting legend Sylvester Stallone still pushes himself in the gym at 79. On Jan. 19, 2026, he shared motivational fitness advice with his followers, emphasizing that the gym is a sanctuary to help you arrive at your goals.
Stallone launched into superstardom thanks to his leading role in the Rocky franchise. He portrayed a struggling boxer who defied the odds to become a world champion. Throughout filming, fans were taken aback by Stallone’s dedication to training and nutrition. This helped him develop one of the most athletic physiques in Hollywood.
Stallone quickly became a top-grossing actor. He wasn’t just known for playing Rocky Balboa; he also starred in other blockbuster roles, including the Rambo series. He later appeared in The Expendables franchise, where he played anti-hero Stakar Ogord in the Marvel Cinematic Universe films Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.
Stallone has made it his mission to remain in shape. At nearly 80 years old, he still boasts impressive muscle definition and size. For the acting phenom, he admits the gym has played a crucial role in helping him achieve his dreams over the years.
Sylvester Stallone Shares Inspiring Fitness Message for 2026
In the Instagram reel, Stallone touched on how he’s feeling heading into the New Year.
“Every year it gets harder and harder, but that’s why you gotta push harder and harder. blood sweat and tears.”
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Wearing a black tank, Stallone likened the gym to a sanctuary or a church, highlighting that both provide the strength to accomplish one’s goals.
“I haven’t done a video from a gym in a long time. In a way, it’s a sanctuary, a church, where you pray you get better, or feel better physically, so you have the strength to arrive at your goals. Keep punching,” shared Sylvester Stallone.
Stallone isn’t the only acting juggernaut keen on staying fit. Arnold Schwarzenegger, a former seven-time Mr. Olympia, also takes his fitness seriously. He remains in great shape at 78 years old. Schwarzenegger has been open about his rivalry with Stallone, which reached its peak in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Dolph Lundgren, who played Ivan Drago in Rocky IV, remains committed to fitness as well. He battled through a nine-year cancer diagnosis and finally reported a clean bill of health. To stay committed to his health, Lundgren has stuck with consistent resistance training.
Stallone wants to see everyone make gains in 2026. He believes the gym is the perfect place to reach your goals, regardless of age.
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