Pablo Rivero on Aging, Fitness, and the Thrill of a Good Story
As actors age, their relationship with physical fitness often evolves. For Pablo Rivero, star of the popular Spanish series Tell Me How It Happened, that evolution has meant prioritizing well-being over relentless pursuit of a sculpted physique. Rivero, 45, spoke with Men’s Health about finding contentment, his new book La Kangaroo, and the creative process behind his gripping thrillers.
The pursuit of fitness, while offering numerous benefits – improved shape, better-fitting clothes, increased energy, enhanced sleep, and a healthier relationship with food – can also breed a constant dissatisfaction, a desire for perpetual improvement. “Anyone who has trained regularly knows that feeling,” Rivero acknowledges. He clarifies this isn’t about reaching the extremes of vigorexia, but rather a persistent internal drive.
However, as life changes and training becomes a matter of “when you can” rather than “when you want,” a shift in perspective is necessary. “The aesthetic aspect…takes a backseat and you settle for feeling good and happy,” Rivero explains. This sentiment reflects his own journey.
Rivero’s latest project, the domestic thriller La Kangaroo, explores the unsettling notion of a safe space – the home – becoming a source of terror. He describes the novel as having “a lot of rhythm and, above all, many twists at the end, which makes reading very surprising.” Inspired by his love for thrillers, horror, and true crime, and particularly by the 1990s film The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, Rivero aimed to create a story that relied on psychological tension rather than special effects. “Everything that seems most terrifying to me was brought together, which is that place that should be the safest, our house, and suddenly it stops being so.”
The author’s creative process is remarkably efficient. He typically begins with an idea sparked by a personal experience or a fear. “I write down the trip and write it down, I’m very fast at that,” he says, adding that he quickly develops characters and dives into the plot. He also maintains a keen interest in current events, utilizing a news app on his phone to stay informed. “It makes my work a lot easier later for my books, things that worry me or scare me, and I look for excuses to be able to talk about it.”
Rivero doesn’t require isolation to write. In fact, he finds inspiration in everyday settings. “Many times I go in the car and at traffic lights I take notes, I dictate things to myself in audio,” he shares, recalling a tip from a masterclass by Dan Brown. He prefers to correct and refine his work at night, when he finds greater clarity.
His approach to physical well-being has also adapted over time. While he acknowledges “surviving a little” currently, he remains conscious of the need for exercise. A previous herniated disc and current plantar fasciitis have necessitated a more cautious approach, incorporating swimming, Pilates, and stretching into his routine. “The important thing is to be aware, consult doctors and do things little by little, not give up,” he advises. He notes the importance of preventative care, suggesting it should be taught in schools.
Rivero admits to having prioritized physical strength for past roles, notably in the film Neckan and the play The Fall of the Gods, where he was required to portray athletes. He acknowledges the pressure actors face to maintain a certain physique on screen, similar to the expectations placed on actresses. However, he now finds greater happiness embracing a more relaxed approach. “I have a belly and such, and I’m kind of happier,” he says. He reflects on the pitfalls of striving for perfection, emphasizing the importance of finding balance between health and well-being. He now focuses on an anti-inflammatory diet to support his health.
Roberto Cabezas, a fitness specialist at Men’s Health Spain, emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to health, advocating for daily exercise and a nutritious diet to combat stress and promote both physical and mental well-being. He also enjoys incorporating protein shakes and healthy snacks, like peanut butter with banana, into his routine. Cabezas’ background in journalism and passion for sports inform his expertise in fitness, nutrition, and sports supplementation.
