How Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Stays Fit: 300 Daily Push-Ups, Squats, Ice Baths & Saunas

Lifestyle News: Telegram CEO Pavel Durov pushes his fitness to an entirely different level, focusing on discipline and long-term results over fleeting comforts. His daily routine show how far he is willing to go to challenge his body and mind, using routines that many people would find difficult to follow. In an October 3 interview with podcaster Lex Fridman, Durov talked about his intense fitness routine, which Fridman called “crazy” because of how much he can handle.

Daily Push-Ups and Squats Build Discipline

Durov said his morning exercises may seem repetitive, but they are key to self-discipline. Every day, he does 300 push-ups and 300 squats to start his day. He also goes to the gym five to six times a week, spending one to two hours each session. He admits that squats are boring but stresses their importance. “They are not that hard, just boring. But once you push through, it helps with other work tasks,” he said. Durov also uses extreme routines like ice baths to train self-discipline. “The main muscle you can exercise is the muscle of self-discipline, not your biceps or chest. Train that, and everything else comes naturally,” he explained.

Using Cold and Heat for Health

Durov combines ice baths with very hot sauna sessions, following the Eastern European “Banya” tradition. He says the discomfort is short, but the benefits last much longer. “A few minutes in an ice bath or sauna may be uncomfortable, but it leads to hours or days of feeling great and improves long-term health,” he said.

Embracing the Challenge

Even when the temperatures are extreme, Durov believes the effort is worth it. “It’s only a few minutes of suffering, but the rewards last for hours or even days. Plus, it helps with long-term health,” he emphasized, showing how commitment to tough routines pays off in both mind and body.