When it comes to the argument in favor of considering NASCAR drivers as world-class athletes, Tony Stewart is the last person who comes to mind. During his prime in the Cup Series, Stewart didn’t use to be in the best of shapes compared to his fellow drivers. However, as his age started to catch up to him, Smoke decided to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Presently, at 51, the three-time Cup Series champion admits that he loathes the idea of working out. During a recent conversation, Smoke mentioned how his wife, Leah Pruett, had been trying her best to get him into a better shape than he currently is in.

What did Tony Stewart Say about Leah?

Stewart mentioned during the conversation, “You know my wife Leah, is a big wake surfer. So we wake surf when we have time. You know she’s trying to get me in shape.

“I’m not the most healthy guy in the world so we hike a lot now, mountain bike a lot. So, I like things that we are active doing. But I am not a guy that’s gonna go sit in a gym. If she wants me to work out it’s gonna be something fun.”

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Smoke agrees to go biking or hiking or just about anything as long as “you don’t really realize you are getting the benefit of a workout from it.”

Later on, he admitted that he “just can’t stand the thought of sitting in a gym.” Claiming that he wanted to be outside doing something else.

Jimmie Johnson’s comments may have led to Tony Stewart’s shift to a healthier lifestyle

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It was back in 2006 when Stewart made a sudden shift in his lifestyle. Going from his penchant to consume high-calorie foods to hiring himself a trainer and purchasing gym equipment, the change seemed to have come out of nowhere.

However, back in the day, his fellow driver and competitor Jimmie Johnson had made some comments about Smoke’s weight issues. Johnson had mentioned that he felt Stewart was one of the “few guys left” who hadn’t been working on training activities. He then went on to name several drivers including himself who had been actively training to maintain their physique.

It is a possibility that after hearing this, Smoke decided to invest in $20,000 worth of gym equipment. He even reportedly hired a trainer to help him with his progress. Compared to the old days, Stewart has improved his health significantly. Hopefully, he continues on the same path to a fitter life.