David Corenswet’s Superman fitness transformation drew attention when he was cast for James Gunn’s DC Universe reboot, and the actor has opened up about how he achieved his superhero physique without resorting to steroids. Sharing details from Cleveland, he made it clear that his approach was focused on natural methods, rigorous training, and personal discipline as he prepared to step into the role of the Man of Steel.
Setting the Record Straight on His Transformation
Corenswet addressed widespread speculation about his rapid change, particularly as discussions around quick physical gains often lead to rumors involving performance-enhancing drugs. During his conversation with reporters, including TheWrap, he worked to dispel the misconception that he built forty pounds of pure muscle for the role.
“I would appreciate anybody who wants to clarify in their writing that nobody is suggesting that I gained 40 pounds of muscle,”
—David Corenswet, Actor
Determined to reassure fans and skeptics alike, Corenswet explained that the weight change was much more nuanced.
“Without performance enhancing drugs and without killing myself.”
—David Corenswet, Actor
The actor described his commitment to pushing his natural abilities to their fullest, embracing a process that was demanding but grounded in sustainable habits.
“The edge of my physical capabilities.”
—David Corenswet, Actor
The Details Behind the Physical Gains
Amid ongoing online debates known as “Natty or Not?” about whether stars use enhancers, Corenswet clarified that the often-cited 40-pound gain involved muscle, water, and body fat, as occurs in most bulking programs.
“It was definitely not 40 pounds of muscle,”
—David Corenswet, Actor
He noted that during the filming process, his weight would vary based on the intensity and demands of the shoot.
“Over the course of shooting, I have been somewhere between about 25 and 30 pounds up from where I was initially,”
—David Corenswet, Actor
Heavy action scenes played a part in these fluctuations as well.
“When you shoot a week of fight sequences in the suit, you just lose weight,”
—David Corenswet, Actor
Training Regimen: Intensity and Commitment
Corenswet’s preparation began during the 2023 actors’ strike, showing personal motivation to begin physical training early. He sought expert guidance and set ambitious, but reasonable, goals for his Superman transformation.
“I hooked up with a trainer and basically said, ‘I want to get as big as possible within reason,’”
—David Corenswet, Actor
His workout routine was substantial, often leaving him exhausted after long gym sessions, with rest and sleep being a priority.
“I was going to the gym for two and a half hours, getting home and passing out and sleeping for two hours, and then sleeping nine hours a night.”
—David Corenswet, Actor
Naturally prone to a slim build, the actor adapted by increasing his food intake, with nutrition playing a vital role in achieving his daily targets.
“Tends to be on the skinnier side,”
—David Corenswet, Actor
“Mostly by drinking shakes to just get the extra calories in.”
—David Corenswet, Actor
Beyond the Gym: Wire Work and Choreography
Physical prep did not stop at lifting weights. After the strike, Corenswet dove into wire-based stunt training for Superman’s flying scenes, learning the specific art and balance required for believable movement on screen.
“A very cool art in itself”
—David Corenswet, Actor
He found this technique challenging and not as instinctive as he expected.
“If you’re hooked onto wires, and you try to fly in the way that you think you won’t look right at all. It’s all very counterintuitive, and all about balance,”
—David Corenswet, Actor
When it came to fight scenes, the choreography was designed to fit Superman’s brawling style, avoiding complex martial arts.
“Because Superman is not a martial artist, we didn’t have to do anything like super fancy or technical. It’s really just throwing punches, throwing haymakers.”
—David Corenswet, Actor
What Audiences Can Expect Next
With the trailer releasing a glimpse of Superman’s punch sending a villain’s teeth flying, Corenswet’s dedication to both the physical and performative aspects of the character is clear. His natural approach, combined with the expertise of his trainer, and his willingness to clarify the reality behind the numbers, distinguishes his journey from rumor-laden transformations seen elsewhere in Hollywood.
David Corenswet’s Superman fitness transformation sets a new precedent for transparency around Hollywood physical roles. Audiences will soon see the results of these efforts when Superman arrives in theaters on July 11, with his portrayal shaped by intense, natural, and carefully managed training.
