When Frank Sinatra, one of the greatest crooners of all time, gave a piece of advice to Rod Stewart, few could have foreseen just how impactful those words would be in the years to come. “Do lots of underwater swimming—hold your breath from one end to the other,” Sinatra told Stewart, a piece of wisdom that would become his secret weapon for unparalleled lung strength and stamina. Over the decades, Stewart has embraced this technique, which has not only helped him maintain a powerful voice but also contributed to his ability to perform at an extraordinary level as he continues to defy age.
In 2025, Stewart has an ambitious schedule ahead of him with 80 planned shows. While most rock legends start slowing down as they reach their 70s and 80s, Stewart is proof that age truly is just a number. His ability to continue rocking the stage with the energy and passion of someone half his age can largely be attributed to Sinatra’s advice. Underwater swimming, which involves holding your breath and swimming from one end of the pool to the other, has become more than just a workout routine for Stewart; it has become the key to his extraordinary stamina, enabling him to sing for hours without losing his breath or energy.
The combination of cardiovascular strength and breath control has allowed Stewart to not only sustain his vocal power but to also embark on physical challenges that most people his age would consider unimaginable. One of Stewart’s more eccentric training drills includes brick-retrieving pool exercises, which not only challenge his lung capacity but also enhance his physical coordination. These drills have become a staple of his fitness regimen, proving that his commitment to staying in shape transcends beyond just vocal performance. Stewart’s approach to fitness is a reminder that it’s not just about staying healthy—it’s about pushing oneself beyond the limits that age often imposes.
Rod Stewart’s relentless pursuit of peak physical performance serves as a powerful example for aging rock stars and aspiring performers alike. With his 80 planned shows for 2025, Stewart is determined to break the stereotype that aging means slowing down. His rigorous commitment to breath control and underwater swimming drills speaks to the power of adapting unconventional methods to stay at the top of your game, regardless of how many years have passed. This unique training regimen proves that with the right mindset and discipline, anyone—whether young or old—can achieve greatness in both body and performance
