Patrick Bateman Workout Routine: American Psycho Training Plan
Master Patrick Bateman's intense American Psycho workout routine, immortalized by Christian Bale's legendary transformation. Learn the training plan that created one of the most shredded sigmas.
Let's dive into the world of Patrick Bateman's fitness obsession. As a 27-year-old investment banker at Pierce & Pierce, he represents the peak of 1980s Wall Street excess – and that includes his fanatical approach to physical fitness. Standing at 6'0" (183 cm) and maintaining a lean, muscular physique at 175 pounds, his dedication to his body rivals his dedication to perfectly crafted business cards. Christian Bale's portrayal showcased this perfectionism, with the actor achieving a similarly impressive physique that would later become a hallmark of his method acting approach.
In American Psycho, we get an intimate look at his morning routine, which includes an impressive 1,000 stomach crunches. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. His impeccably maintained physique suggests a comprehensive workout regimen that would make even the most dedicated gym enthusiast question their commitment. The same obsessive dedication to fitness would later be seen in Bale's other transformative roles, from The Machinist to Batman Begins.
What drives someone to maintain such a rigorous fitness routine while juggling a high-pressure Wall Street career? For him, it's all about control, perfection, and maintaining his carefully crafted image. The workout routine isn't just about building muscle – it's a fundamental part of his identity.
The Method Behind the Madness
His workout philosophy combines elements of 1980s bodybuilding culture with the high-intensity training popular among Wall Street executives of the era. The routine emphasizes:
- High-volume training for maximum muscle definition
- Strict adherence to scheduled workout times
- Obsessive attention to form and technique
- Combination of strength training and cardiovascular conditioning
- Morning calisthenics for core strength and mental focus
Based on what we see in American Psycho, he takes a methodical approach to training, much like his approach to everything else in life. He's not just working out – he's crafting his body with the same precision he uses to analyze business cards or curate his morning skincare routine.
Patrick Bateman Weekly Workout Split
Patrick Bateman Workout Day 1 - Chest and Shoulders
- Bench Press: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
- Incline Dumbbell Press: 4 sets x 10-12 reps
- Cable Flyes: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Military Press: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
- Lateral Raises: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Morning Crunches: 1,000 reps (broken into sets)
Patrick Bateman Workout Day 2 - Back and Biceps
- Wide-Grip Pull-ups: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
- Bent-Over Rows: 4 sets x 10-12 reps
- Lat Pulldowns: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Barbell Curls: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
- Hammer Curls: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Morning Crunches: 1,000 reps
Patrick Bateman Workout Day 3 - Legs
- Squats: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
- Leg Press: 4 sets x 10-12 reps
- Leg Extensions: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Hamstring Curls: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Calf Raises: 4 sets x 15-20 reps
- Morning Crunches: 1,000 reps
Patrick Bateman Workout Day 4 - Arms and Abs
- Close-Grip Bench Press: 4 sets x 8-12 reps
- Skull Crushers: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Preacher Curls: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Cable Pushdowns: 3 sets x 12-15 reps
- Weighted Decline Crunches: 4 sets x 15-20 reps
- Morning Crunches: 1,000 reps
Patrick Bateman Workout Rest Days
- Light cardio (30 minutes on treadmill)
- Morning Crunches: 1,000 reps
- Focus on recovery and skincare routine
Living the American Psycho Lifestyle
For someone maintaining a lean 175 pounds at 6'0", his approach to nutrition and lifestyle is as meticulous as the workout routine. He follows a strict diet that would make any modern fitness influencer proud:
- Breakfast: Fresh squeezed orange juice, captain crunch cereal
- Pre-workout: Sports drink for electrolytes
- Post-workout: High-protein shake
- Dinner: High-protein meals at exclusive restaurants (when not returning videotapes)
His lifestyle habits include:
- Precisely timed meals
- Minimal alcohol consumption (except when at trendy restaurants)
- Regular use of high-end skincare products
- Stress management through... unique methods
- Careful attention to hydration
Remember, while this workout routine is impressive, it's important to approach it with caution. This is an extremely high-volume program that requires significant dedication and recovery time. Christian Bale himself has spoken about the challenges of maintaining such an intensely lean physique for roles. If you're new to working out, consider starting with a modified version and gradually building up to the full routine.
Ready to transform yourself into the ultimate Wall Street warrior? Start with the morning crunches and gradually incorporate other elements of the routine. Just remember – you don't need a reservation at Dorsia to get in shape. You just need dedication, discipline, and maybe a really good business card.