Kevin Costner, 71, Shares Secrets to Staying Fit in Hollywood

The Oscar-winning actor embraces a balanced, nature-based approach to wellness.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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At 71 years old, Kevin Costner remains a picture of vitality in Hollywood. Rather than extreme measures, the Oscar-winning actor's fitness routine emphasizes a holistic approach focused on balance, a positive mindset, and an active outdoor lifestyle. Inspired by peers like Jennifer Lopez, Costner has found success in functional fitness, a 'hunter-gatherer' diet, and the joy of music and nature.

Why it matters

Costner's wellness journey offers insights into emerging trends in celebrity fitness, including the rise of functional fitness, the emphasis on mental wellbeing, nature-based wellness, and the power of social connection. His story provides a refreshing alternative to the rigorous routines often associated with Hollywood stars.

The details

Unlike some celebrities who embrace intense workout regimens, Costner favors a more moderate approach. He embodies a relaxed acceptance of aging, famously sharing on Instagram in 2023: 'Don't believe what they tell you about getting older. Every year that passes is a gift, and it gets better with time.' This mindset is a crucial component of his longevity. A surprising catalyst for Costner's renewed focus on fitness was a winter spent with Jennifer Lopez in Aspen, where the 56-year-old's impressive physique motivated him to gain nearly 5 kilograms of muscle mass in 2025. Costner's fitness journey isn't solely gym-focused; he's embraced a 'Daddy Workout' - prioritizing childcare over traditional gym sessions when his children were young, lifting and chasing them throughout the day. His active lifestyle extends to outdoor pursuits like horseback riding, fly fishing, and maintaining his ranch in Aspen, Colorado. Costner also appears to favor a natural, 'hunter-gatherer' approach to eating, catching his own seafood, hunting game, and foraging for mushrooms.

  • In 2023, Costner shared on Instagram: 'Don't believe what they tell you about getting older. Every year that passes is a gift, and it gets better with time.'
  • In 2025, Costner set a goal to gain nearly 5 kilograms of muscle mass after being inspired by Jennifer Lopez's impressive physique at age 56.

The players

Kevin Costner

A 71-year-old Oscar-winning actor known for his roles in films like 'Dances with Wolves' and 'Field of Dreams', who has maintained an active and balanced approach to fitness and wellness throughout his career.

Jennifer Lopez

A 56-year-old actress, singer, and dancer who inspired Costner to focus on improving his own fitness after spending time with her in Aspen.

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What they’re saying

“Don't believe what they tell you about getting older. Every year that passes is a gift, and it gets better with time.”

— Kevin Costner (Instagram)

“Jennifer Lopez's dedication to fitness had a 'big influence' on his decision to improve his own.”

— Insider (People magazine)

The takeaway

Costner's approach to fitness and wellness foreshadows several emerging trends in celebrity wellness, including the rise of functional fitness, the emphasis on mindfulness and mental wellbeing, nature-based wellness, and the power of social connection. His story provides a refreshing alternative to the rigorous routines often associated with Hollywood stars, proving that a balanced, holistic lifestyle can lead to lasting vitality.