Chow Yun-fat
22nd January 2026 – (Hong Kong) Chow Yun-fat has long been admired not only for his acting career but also for his disciplined and healthy lifestyle, which he credits for maintaining his energy and fitness well into later life. The veteran star has openly shared several habits that have helped him manage his weight, control chronic illness and stay physically strong.
At one point weighing around 80 kilograms, Chow managed to shed 13 kilograms over ten months by cutting back on carbohydrates. He limited starchy foods to a single serving in the morning, often just half a bowl of rice, while keeping the rest of his meals light with fish and vegetables. By avoiding oily and spicy food, he reduced fat build-up while ensuring enough nutrition to prevent muscle loss.
After revealing that he lives with diabetes, Chow adopted an even stricter diet to keep his blood sugar stable. Following guidance similar to that shared by nutritionists, he avoids sweet foods, highly salted items such as fried chicken and processed meats, as well as alcohol and sugary drinks. This disciplined approach has helped lower the risk of his condition worsening and keeps his blood glucose under control.
Exercise is another pillar of his routine. Chow has run five kilometres every day for nearly eight years, a habit he says has completely changed his posture. Years of filming action movies had left him with a stoop, but consistent running, combined with keeping his core engaged and chest lifted, gradually straightened his spine. He even joked that he grew two centimetres taller as a result.
Foot reflexology also plays a role in his wellness regime. Believing the soles of the feet mirror the entire body, Chow regularly practises foot massage to boost circulation, ease discomfort and balance internal functions. He previously studied the technique under a well-known reflexology practitioner and has since expanded his interests to stretching exercises and tai chi, earning him a reputation as a true advocate of holistic health.