In “How Alexander Ludwig Got Wrestling Ready for ‘Heels,” Alexander Ludwig’s transformation to play professional wrestler “Ace Spade” in the STARZ show “Heels” is explored. Ludwig, known for his competitive freestyle skiing background and love for adrenaline-pumping activities, had to gain around ten pounds of muscle to authentically portray a wrestler on-screen. In an interview, Ludwig discusses his approach to bulking up while maintaining a lean physique, emphasizing the importance of finding the right balance between caloric intake and training. He also reveals his admiration for professional wrestlers who risk their bodies for entertainment. With the premiere of “Heels” Season 2 approaching, Ludwig’s dedication and physical commitment to the role are apparent, showcasing his respect for the wrestling industry.
Alexander Ludwig’s Transformation for ‘Heels’
Gaining Muscle and Staying Lean
To convincingly portray professional wrestler “Ace Spade” in the hit show “Heels,” Alexander Ludwig underwent a transformation, gaining around ten pounds of muscle while maintaining a lean physique. Finding the right balance between bulking up and staying ripped was crucial for Ludwig, who emphasized the importance of eating in relation to his training. He realized that simply working out intensely wasn’t enough, as he would often feel hungry at night. Ludwig discovered that tracking his caloric intake was essential for achieving the desired results.
The Role of Nutrition
In order to build muscle and look lean, Ludwig understood the importance of consuming clean and nutritious foods. Eating a diet filled with processed foods like fast food would lead to weight gain, but not the desired type. Ludwig promoted the concept of eating more while still focusing on clean foods. He emphasized the need to fuel the body properly with the right nutrients to support muscle growth and overall health. Ludwig frequently incorporated protein bars, such as Rx bars, into his diet, as they provided a convenient and nutritious snack option. Additionally, he relied on liquid egg whites, which he could easily incorporate into his meals as a high-protein, low-calorie option.
Tracking Calories with MyFitnessPal
To ensure he maintained the right balance of calories and macronutrients, Ludwig turned to the MyFitnessPal app. This allowed him to track his daily caloric intake and ensure he remained on target with his goals. Ludwig spoke highly of the app, jokingly remarking that he should be paid to promote it due to his reliance on its features. By tracking his calories, Ludwig was able to stay disciplined and maintain better eating habits throughout the day. He shared that his daily caloric target when not bulking up for a role was around 2,270 calories.
Maintaining a Heavy Weight
Playing the role of a professional wrestler required Ludwig to maintain a heavier weight than his preferred base weight. For “Heels,” he weighed in at 217-220 pounds, which was necessary to meet the physical demands of the character. However, following the filming of the show, Ludwig was happy to return to his preferred base weight of 210 pounds. He highlighted the challenging nature of maintaining a heavier weight and acknowledged that it required significant physical stamina and conditioning.
Consistency and Sticking to the Gym Routine
One of the hardest aspects of fitness, according to Ludwig, is consistency. He emphasized the importance of sticking to a gym routine and making it a non-negotiable part of his lifestyle. Ludwig viewed going to the gym not only as a way to look more toned but also as a means of promoting overall health. He acknowledged that consistency in the gym was crucial for maintaining his physique and successfully portraying a professional wrestler onscreen. Ludwig recognized that wrestling required complex choreography and highlighted the dedication and respect he had for professional wrestlers who put their bodies on the line for the audience’s enjoyment.
Respect for Professional Wrestlers
Ludwig expressed immense respect for professional wrestlers and their commitment to their craft. He acknowledged the physical demands and risks involved in their performances, comparing their schedule to that of a touring musician but with the added aspect of physicality. Ludwig considered the professional wrestlers he worked with on “Heels” as his family and admired their dedication and passion. He credited their influence and the pressure of their performances for motivating him to push his physique and execute challenging fight scenes.
Physical Demands of ‘Heels’
As a part of the cast of “Heels,” Ludwig faced the physically demanding nature of the show head-on. The complex choreography and execution of risky moves required him to be in peak physical condition. Ludwig acknowledged the intensity of the physical requirements, stating that many elements couldn’t be faked and required his body to be prepared to withstand the pressure. Despite the challenges, Ludwig immersed himself in the role, even performing a backflip off the top turnbuckle. Only in instances where the risk was deemed too high would he be replaced by a stunt-double to ensure the safety of both himself and the production.
Portraying a Pro Wrestler
Ludwig recognized the importance of physique in portraying a professional wrestler. His physique wasn’t solely for aesthetic purposes, but rather to ensure he could handle the physical demands of the role. Being able to withstand the pressure and execute wrestling moves authentically required Ludwig to train and sculpt his body accordingly. He embraced the necessary commitment and viewed his physique as a tool to enhance the believability of his character.
Return of Alexander Ludwig in ‘Heels’ Season 2
Fans of “Heels” can look forward to the return of Alexander Ludwig in Season 2 of the show. Premiering on July 28 on STARZ, the upcoming season promises more thrills and spills as Ludwig continues to portray the character “Ace Spade.” Audiences can expect to see Ludwig’s dedication and transformation in action as he navigates the physical and emotional challenges of being a professional wrestler.
In conclusion, Alexander Ludwig’s transformation for his role in “Heels” showcases his dedication to his craft and commitment to maintaining a balance between gaining muscle and staying lean. Through tracking his calories, choosing clean foods, and sticking to a consistent gym routine, Ludwig successfully transformed his physique to portray a professional wrestler authentically. His respect for professional wrestlers and appreciation for the physical demands of the role further highlight his dedication to delivering a convincing performance. With the return of “Heels” for its second season, fans can witness Ludwig’s transformation onscreen and enjoy the thrilling world of professional wrestling.