‘Outer Banks’ star Chase Stokes reveals his secrets to staying in shape during quarantine

Our team is dedicated to finding and telling you more about the products and deals we love. If you love them too and decide to purchase through the links below, we may receive a commission. Pricing and availability are subject to change.

If you were one of the millions of Netflix users who binged “Outer Banks” during the first few months of quarantine this Spring, then you know that its star, Chase Stokes, got himself into great shape for his turn as John B.

Between the countless swimsuit-clad shirtless scenes and moments when he had to literally run for his life to stay out of trouble, the heartthrob protagonist of the addictive teen show proved that he was up for any challenge thrown his way.

So, how did he do it? And has he been maintaining his fit physique during the months-long quarantine that has pushed back filming on “Outer Banks'” second season?

During a recent interview with In The Know’s Gibson Johns to promote his partnership with Sweet Earth, Stokes revealed that, through a combination of plant-based eating and having an in-demand celebrity trainer at his disposal, he’s made sure that his body is prepared for whenever filming picks back up.

“I’m definitely a lot more strict when I’m working because of the physicality of the show, so [my diet is] definitely a lot more monitored [during filming],” Stokes said. “But, in reality, it’s been ‘eat whatever’ for the past two to three months, so I’ve tried the last month and a half to really get back into my diet and get back into working shape, because we’re seeing the industry sort itself back out into some sort of normalcy, so I’m hoping that Netflix gives us a call sooner rather than later so we can get back to work. My whole thing is failing to prepare is preparing to fail.”

Chase Stokes grilling during quarantine.
(Credit: Sweet Earth)

In order to help himself prepare for the physical demands of the role of John B, the actor turned to Sweet Earth’s plant-based substitutions for meat to ensure he was still getting enough protein without hindering his digestion.

“Especially with my job, it’s always been about finding something that’s high in protein that won’t also destroy my stomach at the drop of a dime. Initially it was plant-based proteins like post-workouts and stuff like that, so that’s what really piqued my interest into the plant-based products,” Stokes explained. “I tried some of the Sweet Earth products and not only are they great for you, but they actually really taste great.”

“I’ve really loved the Mindful Chik’n and the burgers, because those are the two newer products that I’ve gotten my hands on consistently, and it’s just a great way for me to get protein while sticking with my schedule,” he added. “Right now I’m doing so many projects, so it’s just about having something that tastes great, is good for your body, and being a product and company that I really believe in.”

Shop: Sweet Earth Mindful Chik’n, $6.29

(Credit: Sweet Earth)

While the actor has certainly gotten his diet in check in order to keep up with the biggest role of his career, it doesn’t hurt that he is working with one of Hollywood’s leading personal trainers, Alex Fine. Stokes credits him with keeping him disciplined and focused in the gym during quarantine — despite the fact that they’re currently living on opposite coasts.

“I’ve got to give a super shoutout to my trainer, Alex Fine, who trains everyone under the sun: Saquon Barkley for the New York Giants, [“Riverdale” actor] KJ Apa, who always looks insanely good, and a few others he has under his belt,” Stokes told ITK. “So, yeah, I’ve been working with him, whether it’s through Zoom or FaceTime — I’m on the East Coast and he’s on the West Coast, and he’s still on me non-stop. He’ll call me at the end of the workout and hold me accountable, making sure I’m doing the work I need to be doing.”

Learn more about Sweet Earth here.

If you enjoyed this story, check out this article on another popular Netflix show, “Special.”

More from In The Know:

Parents throw incredible gender reveal party for 17-year-old trans son

This $25 subscription box brings BIPOC-owned beauty brands to your door

These innovative shoelaces were created for style — but also help people with disabilities

Influencer shares side-by-side photos to prove how deluded Instagram has made us about ideal bodies

Listen to the latest episode of our pop culture podcast, We Should Talk: