AC's Trainer

Anderson Cooper's Trainer Reveals Must-Do Move
by Deborah Dunham Oct 20th 2009 9:00AM


Anyone can tell just by looking at CNN anchor Anderson Cooper that he's in great shape. His lean physique and strong biceps tell us he's doing something right. That's Fit recently had a chance to catch up with Cooper's personal trainer, T.J. Johnson, who has been whipping him into shape for the last two years at their local New York City gym.

That's Fit: Cooper's a busy guy. How does he stay in shape with a job that is so demanding?

T.J. Johnson: Cooper trains five days a week for at least an hour at a time. Some days he does two sessions. That's how dedicated he is. We focus on one or two muscle groups a day for strength building and at least two days a week for endurance. A typical gym workout includes a lot of variety. For example: a 1K run, 50 pull-ups, 1K run, 50 box jumps, 1K run, 50 body slams, 1K run, 150 push-ups and another 1K run. When he's on the road, it's running, push-ups and pull-ups. Anything to keep moving.

TF: What are Cooper's likes and dislikes?

TJ: He likes upper-body work and running; his least favorites are legs and squats, but nobody really likes these. Cooper does everything, though. He's not a whiner. He doesn't complain.

TF: With the NYC Marathon coming up, will Cooper be inspired to complete this race some day?

TJ: His main goal is to stay fit and build muscle right now, but you never know. I may get him out there to do a marathon some day -- or even a triathlon. He already likes running. He rides his mountain bike around the city, and he even swam with Michael Phelps before. So there you have it: All three sports for a triathlon.


That's Fit: What is your one must-do move?

TJ: The squat-clean-press with a barbell. It's a full body exercise that works every major muscle group. The most important thing is just getting out there every day and doing something. I tell clients that a bad workout is always better than no workout. You need to have fun, too. Cooper likes to joke around, so I'll add some digs and fun competitions to keep it interesting. I'll say, 'so-and-so just lifted this much, or let's see if you can do more than me.' Johnson's advice to others wanting to get in shape like Cooper: Get yourself a carb chart, eat clean and avoid processed foods. "A lot of people set limits for themselves, but there are no limits," he says. "It's as far as you can take it." With his impressive shape, Cooper is obviously listening to his trainer and proving him right. For biceps like Cooper's, check out some other must-do moves.