Christian Wilkins has reflected on the life-changing fitness journey that transformed him from a runway waif to a gym-honed powerhouse.
The model son of showbiz guru Richard Wilkins has been quietly undergoing a metamorphosis over the past few years, turning his back on the ultra-lean frame often demanded by the fashion world and embracing strength and muscle.
‘For a long time, my modelling work leaned into my androgyny – runway and women’s wear campaigns – so I tried to stay as lean as possible,’ the influencer told Daily Mail Australia this week.
‘That meant long cardio sessions and lighter weights, more about toning than strength.
In recent years, however, Christian has embraced his strength and allowed his body to gain size.
‘Lifting heavy is now the focus, and I genuinely love it. I fought my changing body for a while, but accepting that I can’t be a waif forever has been freeing. I feel stronger, fitter, and more confident than ever,’ he said.
Christian Wilkins has reflected on the life-changing fitness journey that transformed him from a runway waif to a gym-honed powerhouse. (Pictured left in 2022, and right in 2024)
The model son of showbiz guru Richard Wilkins has been quietly undergoing a metamorphosis over the past few years, turning his back on the ultra-lean frame often demanded by the fashion world and embracing strength and muscle. (Pictured left in 2016 and right in 2025)
As for his fitness routine, Christian says he lifts weights five days a week, completing a rowing session or yoga on the other days.
Specifically, he attends classes at Body By Brando, a CrossFit-style gym in Sydney’s Darlinghurst that offers structured strength and conditioning programs, with a focus on weight lifting.
‘At my gym, it feels like a family – everyone cheers each other on. I’m often dancing in the back during rest periods, chatting, or spotting someone else’s lift,’ he enthused.
‘Doing hard things becomes so much easier when you’re surrounded by people you love, which is why I’ve stayed at Body By Brando for years.’
When quizzed on his fitness tips, Christian emphasised the importance of choosing a regimen that you actually enjoy.
‘If Pilates, running, or weights don’t bring you joy, don’t force it. There are so many ways to move your body, and enjoyment is what drives consistency,’ he advised, adding that being part of a good gym community is just as important.
And who could forget the importance of diet?
Christian, whose mother is Greek, has long maintained a healthy Mediterranean-style diet: ‘I’ve always loved vegetables, fruit, and lean proteins.’
‘Lifting heavy is now the focus, and I genuinely love it. I fought my changing body for a while, but accepting that I can’t be a waif forever has been freeing. I feel stronger, fitter, and more confident than ever,’ he said. (Pictured left in 2019, and right in 2025)
As for his fitness routine, Christian says he lifts weights five days a week, completing a rowing session or yoga on the other days. (Pictured in 2025)
When quizzed on his fitness tips, Christian emphasised the importance of choosing a regimen that you actually enjoy. (Pictured in 2025)
‘I genuinely enjoy cooking, and when you appreciate beautiful produce, eating whole foods feels natural rather than restrictive,’ he explained.
When asked about his diet secrets, Christian said balance is key.
‘I don’t believe in being overly restricted, but I also don’t believe in denying yourself the foods you love,’ he said.
‘No one wants to feel locked into boring ‘fitness bro’ meals. Sustainability comes from enjoyment.’
