Charlie Brooks swaps running for weights after severe hip pain

Charlie Brooks has swapped her marathon shoes for barbells, revealing a new fitness regime after suffering hip pain so severe she wanted to "cut her leg off". The Daily Mail reported ^[1] that the EastEnders actress, 45, was advised by doctors to replace running with weight-bearing exercises amid fears she may eventually need a hip replacement.

Brooks, who has completed four marathons and won the Strictly Christmas Special, told Closer magazine ^[1] that her transformation began when she started working with a remote trainer four times a week. She confirmed her new routine includes consuming 2,500 calories daily, a figure that surprised many given her previous endurance-focused lifestyle. "I feel stronger, I feel more energised and healthier in my mind," Brooks said, noting that seeing her muscles grow has been a massive motivator.

Her dietary overhaul is equally detailed. According to the Daily Mail ^[1], Brooks starts her day with a protein shake and eggs, often enjoying chilli beef wraps or rice with avocado for lunch. She also revealed a robust supplement stack, including creatine, apple cider vinegar, electrolytes, and fish oil, plus magnesium to aid sleep.

This physical shift follows a period of intense body image scrutiny for the soap star. Brooks admitted to Fabulous Magazine ^[1] that filming her 2005 fitness DVD, Charlie Brooks’ Before & After Workout, pushed her into an "obsessive" weight loss phase where she shed two stone in just two months. She described her relationship with her body as having been "extreme" and complicated, often feeling she wasn't pretty enough.

Now sober for seven years, Brooks says her wellbeing overhaul began as she approached her 40s. She has embraced meditation and breathwork to complement her physical training. "Life got more colourful for me," she shared, adding that while she still has days where she feels "disgusting," she is now about 70 per cent of the way to full body acceptance.

The actress emphasized that her journey wasn't perfect but was a game-changer. She noted that the confidence that comes with age has helped her rediscover passions she had forgotten. For Brooks, the move away from high-impact running wasn't just about preserving her hip; it was about reclaiming her health and mindset. She stated that if she hadn't made these changes, her 40s might have been "really tough."

Currently, Brooks is focused on the progress of her strength training, noting that as she lifts heavier, her sense of capability grows. The switch from cardio-centric endurance to strength-based resilience marks a definitive new chapter for the star, one defined by sustainability rather than speed.