The fitness routine of Louis L'Amour, the renowned Western novelist, is a testament to the power of consistent and purposeful exercise. L'Amour, who lived into his 80s, maintained a rigorous daily workout regimen that spanned decades, even into his later years. This article delves into L'Amour's workout routine, exploring its origins, benefits, and the underlying philosophy that guided his approach to fitness.
A Boxer's Heritage and the Need for Exercise
L'Amour's journey with exercise began early in life. Born in 1908, he trained as a boxer and worked physical labor jobs in the 1920s, focusing on speed and endurance. During World War II, his role in the Transportation Corps, leading convoys through burning towns in Europe, led to a sedentary lifestyle and weight gain. However, it was a doctor's advice to avoid lifting heavy objects that sparked L'Amour's interest in weight training. This, coupled with his desire to maintain his physical strength and continue creating his art, led to a lifelong commitment to exercise.
The Workout Routine: A Balanced Approach
L'Amour's workout routine was a well-rounded affair, consisting of three main components: conditioning, strength training, and dietary discipline.
Conditioning: The Boxer's Base
L'Amour's conditioning routine was rooted in his boxing heritage. He incorporated jump rope, stationary bike rides, heavy bag work, walking, and boxing rounds with his son, Beau. These activities not only improved his cardiovascular health but also enhanced his overall fitness and coordination.
The Lifts: Building Strength and Endurance
L'Amour's strength training focused on a circuit of exercises using barbells and dumbbells. This circuit targeted both the upper and lower body, including exercises such as bench press, overhead press, flies, curls, rows, triceps extensions, grip work, shrugs, and lat pulldowns. By performing this circuit six times a week, L'Amour built strength, endurance, and muscle mass, ensuring his body could withstand the demands of his creative work.
Discipline at the Table
L'Amour's commitment to his workout routine extended beyond the gym. He maintained a strict dietary regimen, aiming to stay under 220 lbs. During periods of weight cutting, he eliminated snacking between meals, demonstrating his discipline and dedication to his fitness goals.
The Benefits of L'Amour's Approach
L'Amour's workout routine had profound benefits that extended beyond physical fitness. Firstly, it alleviated his back pain, which had been a nagging issue since his time in the military. By strengthening his muscles and improving his posture, he cured the very problem the doctor had warned him about. This highlights the importance of a holistic approach to fitness, addressing not only physical strength but also overall health and well-being.
Secondly, L'Amour's routine provided a sense of structure and purpose. By scheduling his workouts and treating them as standing appointments, he created a consistent routine that became an integral part of his daily life. This sense of discipline and routine likely contributed to his longevity and creative productivity.
A Legacy of Great Health
Louis L'Amour's workout routine was not just about physical strength; it was about achieving what Nietzsche called 'Great Health'. By training his body and mind, L'Amour ensured that he could continue creating his art and contributing to the literary world well into his 80s. His legacy serves as an inspiration for men of all ages to prioritize their health and fitness, not just for physical appearance but for the long-term benefits it brings to their overall well-being and creative pursuits.
In conclusion, L'Amour's workout routine was a testament to the power of consistency, discipline, and a holistic approach to fitness. His legacy reminds us that exercise is not just about physical transformation but about nurturing our bodies and minds to achieve Great Health and fulfill our potential.
