Justin Hartley, widely known for his role in This Is Us, is opening up about the survival tactics he’s learned from playing Colter Shaw in CBS’s thrilling series Tracker. In an interview with Us Weekly, Hartley explained that playing a character in intense, high-stress situations has taught him to stay calm and patient. He emphasized the importance of avoiding panic, as it often leads to bad decisions, a lesson he carries with him both on and off-screen. According to Hartley, Colter Shaw’s ability to maintain composure in chaotic moments has had a lasting impact on his own personal life.
To keep up with the physical demands of his role, Hartley has focused heavily on fitness. In a February interview with Men’s Health, he shared that his character is constantly engaged in high-energy activities like running, climbing, and fighting. As a result, Hartley prioritizes staying in top physical condition not only for the role but also to manage stress and maintain emotional balance. He noted that fitness plays a key role in overall well-being, affecting both emotional and physical health.
The second season of Tracker, which debuted in fall 2024, has already been well-received, and fans can look forward to more action as the show has been renewed for a third season. Hartley revealed that the physical demands of his character are set to increase, but he’s ready for the challenge. Tracker’s third season is expected to premiere between 2025 and 2026, keeping fans on the edge of their seats for more heart-pounding action.
Justin Hartley, known for his captivating performances, has taken on a new and rugged role in Tracker, a thrilling adventure series that tests his physical and mental resilience. To bring authenticity to his character, Hartley had to master survival skills and undergo intense fitness training. In this article, we’ll dive into the survival lessons he learned, the fitness secrets he swears by, and how you can apply them in your own life.
H1: The Grit Behind Tracker
H2: A Role That Demands More Than Acting
Portraying a skilled tracker navigating through extreme terrains requires more than just acting skills. Hartley had to prepare for unpredictable situations, from surviving in the wilderness to mastering hand-to-hand combat.
H2: The Realism in Tracker
Unlike many action-packed TV series that rely on CGI and stunt doubles, Tracker emphasizes authenticity. Hartley performed many of his own stunts, demanding peak physical condition and survival knowledge.
H1: Survival Lessons from Tracker
H2: Navigating the Wilderness
Hartley learned essential survival skills, including:
- Reading maps and natural signs to avoid getting lost.
- Using the sun, stars, and landmarks for direction.
- Identifying edible plants and safe water sources.
H2: Mastering the Art of Fire-Making
One of the most critical survival skills Hartley acquired was starting a fire without modern tools. He practiced using:
- Flint and steel for spark generation.
- The friction method (bow drill) for primitive fire-making.
- Proper fire-building techniques to sustain warmth and cook food.
H2: Adapting to Harsh Environments
From deserts to snow-covered landscapes, Hartley had to learn how to regulate body temperature, build shelters, and adapt his strategy based on the environment.
H1: Justin Hartley’s Fitness Secrets
H2: Strength Training for Stamina and Endurance
To keep up with the physical demands of Tracker, Hartley followed a strict strength-training regimen, including:
- Deadlifts and squats for full-body strength.
- Circuit training to improve endurance.
- Functional movements to mimic survival situations.
H2: Cardio Workouts for Agility
Since Tracker requires plenty of action scenes, Hartley incorporated high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and running into his routine.
H2: Combat Training for Self-Defense
To portray his character realistically, Hartley trained in:
- Krav Maga for practical self-defense techniques.
- Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu for grappling and ground combat.
- Boxing to enhance hand-eye coordination and reflexes.
H1: Nutrition and Diet Plan
H2: Protein-Rich Diet for Muscle Recovery
Hartley prioritizes lean proteins such as chicken, fish, and plant-based options to aid muscle recovery.
H2: Hydration is Key
Spending long hours on set, especially in extreme conditions, required proper hydration. Hartley drinks at least a gallon of water per day.
H2: Balanced Meals for Energy
His diet consists of:
- Complex carbohydrates like sweet potatoes and quinoa for sustained energy.
- Healthy fats from avocados, nuts, and olive oil for brain function and recovery.
- Fresh vegetables and fruits to ensure essential vitamins and minerals.
H1: How You Can Train Like Justin Hartley
H2: Functional Workouts You Can Try
You don’t need Hollywood trainers to get in Tracker shape. Try these workouts:
- Burpees: Mimic the full-body endurance needed for survival.
- Pull-ups: Build upper body strength for climbing and self-defense.
- Sprints: Enhance agility and speed.
H2: Survival Skills for Everyday Life
Even if you’re not venturing into the wild, learning basic survival skills can be beneficial. Start with:
- First aid and CPR certification.
- Basic knot-tying techniques.
- Fire-starting and water purification methods.
Conclusion
Justin Hartley’s role in Tracker is more than just another action-packed adventure; it’s a testament to resilience, discipline, and preparedness. His survival training and fitness regime have not only helped him embody his character but also equipped him with real-world skills. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or someone looking to sharpen survival instincts, you can take inspiration from his journey. So, are you ready to train like a tracker?
