Jonathan Roumie, the actor who portrays Jesus in the hit series The Chosen, has revealed the surprisingly simple fitness routine he followed to achieve a lean, muscular physique for the role.

The 51-year-old actor, who has played Jesus Christ since the show’s debut in 2017, partnered with trainer Braden Morrow of Iron Faith Fitness to prepare for the physically demanding portrayal. Rather than relying on intense high-intensity interval training or heavy cardio, Roumie focused on two main pillars: consistent daily walking and targeted strength training, particularly for his back and biceps.

“I would get a lot of steps in and actually not do a lot of high intensity interval training,” Roumie explained. His goal was a minimum of 10,000 steps per day, often achieved while traveling for filming. This simple but consistent approach helped him lose between 20 and 25 pounds over the course of a year while building the lean, strong physique commonly associated with artistic depictions of Jesus throughout history.

Roumie emphasized that the training was designed with practicality in mind. Because he frequently films on location and stays in hotels with limited gym equipment, the program had to be adaptable. Working with Morrow, he developed a back-focused routine that could be performed almost anywhere. The emphasis on building a strong, defined back helped create the visual presence needed for the role.

The actor’s fitness philosophy is deeply rooted in his faith. He often references the biblical idea that “your body is a temple,” viewing physical preparation as part of his spiritual commitment to portraying Jesus authentically. “At the end of the day, it comes down to this: Your body’s a temple,” Roumie said. “That’s what I’ve really come away with throughout this last year of my life in committing to the training needed to get into the shape to play Jesus.”

Jonathan Roumie’s Back Day Workout:

• Wide Grip Pull-ups: 3 sets to failure
• Single-Arm Cable Pull: 3 sets of 10–15 reps
• Dumbbell Row: 3 sets of 12 reps (or to failure)
• Chest-Supported Dumbbell Rows: 3 sets of 8–12 reps (or to failure)
• Incline Dumbbell Curl: 2 sets of 8–12 reps (or to failure)
• Hammer Curl: 2 sets of 8–12 reps (or to failure)

Roumie’s dedication to the role goes far beyond physical appearance. Playing Jesus for nearly a decade has had a profound spiritual impact on him. He has spoken openly about how the experience has deepened his own faith and sense of responsibility. The long filming days, emotional scenes, and constant public scrutiny of portraying the Son of God have required significant mental and spiritual preparation alongside the physical training.

The Chosen has become one of the most successful independent faith-based series in history, drawing millions of viewers worldwide. Roumie’s authentic and human portrayal of Jesus has been widely praised for making the character relatable while maintaining reverence. His commitment to fitness is just one example of how seriously he takes the responsibility of playing such an iconic and sacred figure.

As the series continues into later seasons, Roumie’s disciplined approach to both his physical health and spiritual life continues to inspire fans. His workout routine proves that achieving a strong, lean physique does not always require complicated gym equipment or extreme training methods — sometimes, consistency and intention are the most powerful tools.

Roumie’s journey also highlights a growing trend among actors playing historical or religious figures: treating the role as a holistic transformation that includes body, mind, and spirit. By sharing his training regimen, he has given fans a practical glimpse into the preparation required to embody one of history’s most influential figures on screen.

With The Chosen continuing to expand its global reach through theatrical releases, streaming, and international dubbing, Roumie’s portrayal remains at the heart of the series’ success. His willingness to share both the physical discipline and spiritual depth behind the role has endeared him to audiences far beyond the show’s core faith-based fanbase.

Whether walking thousands of steps a day or performing focused back exercises in hotel gyms, Jonathan Roumie’s preparation to play Jesus demonstrates a level of commitment that matches the significance of the character he brings to life on screen.