From the runway to the boxing ring, Toby Huntington-Whiteley is one of London’s most in-demand fashion models and trainers. And while he may have won one the genetic lottery (Toby is model Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s younger brother!), his commitment to living a healthy, balanced lifestyle and genuine desire to help others through training, is what makes him so cool.
Ahead, Toby shares his approach to training and nutrition, plus his tips for staying in shape while travelling.
Meet Toby Huntington-Whiteley
How do you start your day? Do you have any morning rituals or routines?
The first thing I do is have a glass of water that I have left besides my bed from the night before. Then, I jump in the shower, put the kettle on and make myself a cup of black coffee.
How would you describe your approach to training?
Varied. I like to mix things up to keep both my body and mind stimulated.
Where are some of your favourite places to train in London?
I love doing a KOBOX class with one of my fellow trainers, but I do my strength training at Workshop Gymnasium.
Tell us about how you got into boxing?
I have always loved the sport, but then a friend of mine started working with Anthony Joshua [ed. note: British professional boxer] and it sparked my interest. Then, when I heard about KOBOX I thought it was such a brilliant concept and I wanted to be a part of it. My class is tough but hopefully fun too. I’ve had good feedback on my floor work, which I like to mix up every class.
Do you follow any rules or particular eating styles when it comes to nutrition?
Everything in moderation, including moderation. I stick to whole foods and stay away from anything processed.
Where are your favourite places to eat out in London?
Breakfast has to be Lowry & Baker at the top of Portobello Road—this place has the best coffee and eggs! Franco Manca has the best pizzas, and I love this Japanese restaurant called Ukai on Portobello Road too.
As a trainer and model, we imagine you are always in great form but are there any changes you might make to your training and/or diet if you are preparing for a shoot or special event?
If I have a big shoot lined up I will change my training and diet. I will make my workouts a bit more high intense to lean out a little more—I usually jump into a KOBOX class. As for my diet, I change when I eat, not what I eat. l fast for 16 hours between the 8pm-12am and then get my 3 main meals in the 8 hours 12noon-8pm.
What are your tips for staying healthy and in shape while travelling?
As soon as you get on the plane set your clock to the time of your destination and workout as soon as you can. These are the best ways to kill jet lag.
Who are the people that you look to for inspiration professionally and personally?
My colleagues at work inspire me every day. We share our knowledge between us all, and this helps us to become better trainers.
What are you most excited about right now?
I’m travelling to New Zealand and Australia at the end of March for two weeks. I know it’s not long enough but it’s the first time I’m going down under. I’m so excited!!
Quick Questions
Born: Plymouth, Devon
Lives: London
Known for: Being loyal and straight talking
Personal motto: Everything in moderation, including moderation
Success is: Happiness
Advice I would give my 20 yr. old self: Don’t take things too seriously
My most used emoji is: Thumbs Up
Last thing I do at night: Set my alarm
Guilty pleasure: Pizza, bacon and ice-cream!
Sports top: Nike
Sports shorts: Nike
Shoes: Belstaff boots
Sunglasses: Illesteva
Watch: Omega
Store: Harvey Nichol Mens Dept
New season must have: Aquascutum trench coat
App: Instagram
Website: BBC Sport
Binge watch: Stranger Things—love Taboo at the moment
