Kelly Ripa reveals why strong glutes are her secret to longevity

Kelly Ripa has opened up about her fitness journey and the importance of strong glutes on Live with Kelly and Mark. The TV host, currently in a heavy lifting phase, highlighted how building glute strength can improve overall health and longevity. Her co-host, Mark Consuelos, also weighed in, offering encouragement during Friday’s episode. Ripa explained that the gluteus maximus is key to core strength. She described it as the foundation for stability and movement, helping to reduce lower-back pain. Strong glutes also act as shock absorbers for the hips, knees, and joints when walking or climbing stairs.

The host linked well-developed glutes—sometimes called an 'athlete’s butt' or 'hockey butt'—to better ageing and long-term health. She contrasted this with conditions like 'dead butt syndrome,' where weak glutes struggle to activate properly. Prolonged sitting, she noted, can lead to issues like this, along with what some call 'pancake butt.' Consuelos supported Ripa’s commitment to her workout routine. He reminded her that visible results take time, often a few years. Despite the effort, Ripa agreed to keep going, recognising the long-term benefits for her strength and mobility. *Live with Kelly and Mark* continues to air on weekdays, where the pair often discuss fitness, health, and lifestyle topics.

Ripa’s focus on glute training ties into broader advice about movement and ageing. Strong glutes can ease back pain and improve joint support, while weak ones may lead to mobility issues. The discussion on Live with Kelly and Mark underscored how consistent exercise—even over years—can pay off for long-term health.