Preparing for the Physical Demands of Prime Video’s ‘Cross’
Bringing James Patterson’s ‘Cross’ novels to life is not just about solving crimes, but also dealing with the detective’s own traumas and cultural challenges, such as the difficulties surrounding being black and part of the police force. The show takes the time to present intelligent debates about race and representation, and offers a script that Hodge enjoys. “You know, because he’s a detective, living in the space he lives in and dealing with the current nature of things, he’s probably the most culturally relevant character of my career,” the 39-year-old says. “So for me there is no extra effort needed to challenge or approach these topics because this is the nature of what we live.”
Building functional strength for action roles
With his 6-foot-4 frame, Hodge commands the screen M&F that his enviable broad shoulders and slim waist are a combination of great genetics and thousands of hours spent on the martial arts mat, studying Muay Thai and countless other disciplines, while fighting competitively in Southern Shaolin king fu. But he’s also suffered from serious back problems and undergone surgeries, so these warriors’ workouts have evolved to include movements for mobility in addition to muscle building. Either way, when training, Hodge leaves it all in the gym and says that having a pre-prepared number of reps in mind before starting an exercise could limit your potential.
How Aldis Hodge trains for strength, mobility and performance
“There is growth and then there is maintenance, which one do you want?” challenges Hodge. “I’m definitely not a trainer. I’m not a nutritionist. I don’t know any of these things. But I do know that at some point your body is going to get used to something and then if you want to go further, you’re going to have to push yourself. So it really comes down to how far you want to push yourself.”
For Hodge, the goal can change with each role. “My goal to achieve when I’m in the gym isn’t necessarily counting reps or hitting a certain number of sets or anything like that. My goal is I want this specific type of physique. I want this kind of strength. I want this kind of mobility. So everything I do is driven by that. I don’t set a number that says I want to go in there and hit 12 reps.” Rather than being tied to predetermined rep numbers, Hodge explains he listens to his body. “I want to go in there and get to this level of strength, so if that means doing 15 or 16 reps, I have to do it.”
Hodge’s approach of working toward failure due to hypertrophy is a surefire way to force the body to adapt, but he is also wise not to injure himself. “Or, if I have to hit a certain weight and get it down to five reps, you have to be smart about how you do that. But the
The actual initiative practice required to achieve your goal is determined by the outcome you desire for that goal.”
Cross season two will stream on Prime Video from February 11, 2026
To follow Aldis Hodge on Instagram, click here.
#Cross #Star #Aldis #Hodge #Builds #Strength #Mobility #Mental #Toughness #Muscle #Fitness