Pope Leo XIV’s election has surprised many, but perhaps none more so than Valerio Masella, his former personal trainer. For two years, the man now leading 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide was simply “Robert” at a gym near the Vatican, diligently working on his fitness without revealing his true identity. This article delves into the surprising details of Pope Leo XIV’s fitness routine, revealing the dedication and discipline that characterize this spiritual leader.
The Accidental Revelation
Valerio Masella, a 26-year-old personal trainer, recounts his surprise when he saw his client, “Robert,” appear on television as the newly elected Pope Leo XIV. In an interview with the Italian newspaper Il Messaggero, Masella shared his astonishment, stating that he had no idea “Robert” was Cardinal Robert Prevost, let alone a potential Pope. “When he appeared at the window in St. Peter’s Square, I recognized him immediately. I couldn’t believe it! I trained the new Pontiff. To me, he was just a client like any other.”
A Cardinal in Disguise
Before ascending to the papacy, Cardinal Robert Prevost maintained a low profile, living in a modest apartment near St. Peter’s Square and frequenting the Omega Fitness Club, a local gym just a few blocks from the Vatican. To the gym staff, he was simply “Robert,” a polite and reserved man who dressed in a tracksuit and quietly followed his routine. He never wore clerical garments to the gym and avoided unnecessary conversation, focusing solely on his training. Masella recalls thinking he was a professor or academic due to his quiet demeanor and intelligence.
The Pope’s Workout Regimen
Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to fitness is evident in his consistent workout routine. According to Masella, he trained two to three times a week, with each session lasting approximately 45 minutes to an hour. His workouts typically took place in the mornings, depending on his schedule.
A typical session included:
- Warm-up: He would begin with a 10-minute warm-up on the exercise bike, followed by a brisk 10-minute walk on a treadmill with the incline turned up. His secretary would often join him for the cardio portion of the workout.
- Strength Training: After the warm-up, he would move on to strength exercises. His routine included:
- Chest Press Machine: Lifting 15kg with each arm, doing 20 repetitions per set for three or four sets.
- Low-Pull Machine: Completing four sets of ten repetitions with 25kg on each arm. Masella noted that the Pope particularly liked this machine as he wanted to use it to straighten his shoulders.
Masella tailored the workouts to focus on maintaining a balanced body composition, improving posture, and relieving physical stress, common for someone in a desk-bound job. He noted that Pope Leo XIV had an impressive balance of muscle, bone, and fat mass, which was rare for a man his age.
Focus on Cardio and Posture
While he incorporated strength training, Pope Leo XIV’s primary focus was on cardiovascular health and posture. He particularly enjoyed running on the treadmill, especially one that faced a mural featuring famous local landmarks, including St. Peter’s Basilica. Masella described that he would start slowly and then increase the intensity, particularly on the exercise bike, where he would do a “very strong climb.”
A Sporting Pope
Beyond the gym, Pope Leo XIV is known to be an avid tennis player. He even met with world No. 1 Jannik Sinner, who gifted him a new racket. There is a tennis court inside Vatican City, and many hope he will continue to play, though his papal duties will likely leave him with less free time.
Humility and Discipline
Those who knew him as “Robert” at the gym consistently describe Pope Leo XIV as a humble, kind, and disciplined individual. He was always positive, never complaining and showing dedication to his fitness routine. Alessandro Tamburlani, the founder of Omega Fitness Club, noted that the Pope’s lifestyle exemplifies the importance of leading a healthy life, combining spirituality and sports training.
A Model for All
Pope Leo XIV’s commitment to fitness serves as an inspiration, particularly for those who believe that age is a barrier to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. At 69, he defies the stereotype of someone slowing down, instead embracing a life of physical activity, mental engagement, and service. As Tamburlani stated, “He’s a shining light that allows us all to say that, if he can do it, we can all manage to take care of ourselves and exercise.”
His dedication invites everyone to be more aware of their bodies and to take control of them, guiding them toward an excellent experience that combines spirituality and sports training.
The Gym’s Reaction
The staff and members of Omega Fitness Club were overjoyed to learn that “Robert” was elected Pope. Tamburlani recounted the moment he found out: “When the name of the pope was announced, my phone rings and my son tells me, ‘Dad, it’s Robert! Robert, our member!'” He heard the gym staff cheering, which moved him and filled him with joy. The gym welcomes Pope Leo XIV back anytime, promising to ensure his safety and privacy.
A Pope for a New Era
Pope Leo XIV’s fitness regime offers a glimpse into the private habits of a public figure now leading the Catholic Church. His commitment to maintaining his physical health, combined with his spiritual dedication, presents a compelling model for a new era. He demonstrates that leading a healthy lifestyle is possible, regardless of one’s age or position, and that even the Pope can find time for a good workout.
