How Marco Gumabao Embodies Adventure and Swag in Every Pursuit

Driven by adventure, defined by joy—Marco Gumabao details the high-energy lifestyle that fuels his on-screen success and off-screen passions

This is an excerpt from MEGA Man’s September 2023 cover story.

“Game ako to try that,” Marco Gumabao says with a grin, his eyes lighting up with excitement. He’s talking about his aspirations to try extreme outdoor activities, like skydiving. It’s a daring idea that embodies his vigorous spirit. However, for now, he contently indulges his newfound love for off-road 4×4 ATV driving—an adrenaline-pumping pursuit that got him hooked.

Gumabao, 28, is a man who radiates life and energy, as evident during our shoot at a quaint dance studio in San Juan, Manila. Dressed in a vibrant green shirt, black sweatpants, and a pair of running shoes, his attire perfectly matches his lively personality.

“I’m all about having a happy lifestyle—like all my friends know, I hate drama and stress,” Gumabao chuckles, revealing a commitment to joy and positivity.

Drama may be his forte onscreen, but in real life, he’s quick to dodge it. “My mental state or mental health is tied up with working out and my diet,” he confesses. “Honestly, it’s like my day is not complete when I don’t work out or do something for myself.”

Gumabao’s philosophy is rooted in action—keeping his body and mind active. “I enjoy being active—playing sports, trying new things, going on trips with friends, and embarking on outdoor adventures,” he shares with enthusiasm. The thought of being cooped up at home, not engaging in some form of physical activity, is anathema to him.

Looking after himself

Speaking of having an active lifestyle, Gumabao’s transformation from a rising star to one of the industry’s most sought-after actors hasn’t been without its fitness feats. In 2018, he secured his place as one of MEGA Man’s Best Bodies awardees, and the evidence is clear as he stretches and flexes during the shoot.

But Gumabao’s approach to fitness isn’t stagnant. “Super big change,” he emphasizes, recounting his shift from bodybuilding to calisthenics bodyweight workouts. His candor in sharing this evolution speaks volumes about his quest for improvement. “I’ve been doing bodybuilding-type workouts for the longest time, but then recently, I thought, ‘Yeah, my body looks good, but sometimes I feel weak.’”

Following this change, Gumabao says he feels more robust than ever. “Since the start of the year, I’ve been doing that, and I really feel the changes,” he says. “Even though I’m not as big as before, I feel stronger. It’s really just a matter of changing and experimenting with other workouts, techniques, and regimens.”

Gumabao dedicates one to two hours every day to his workouts, sometimes even doubling up on his sessions when time permits. The actor says his transition to calisthenics has not only made him feel stronger but also allowed him to explore new avenues of physical prowess.

Diet, too, plays a pivotal role in Marco Gumabao’s holistic approach to health. “Before, my diet was the conventional one—normal chicken breast and the typical crop foods. But recently, I tried intermittent fasting,” he says and reveals his eating window. “I usually eat at 12 noon and end at 8 PM.”

When it comes to supplementation, Gumabao keeps it simple. “I used to take a bunch of supplements because of my work demands, but now I only take BCAA, creatine, and whey protein,” he explains. He also reveals that his preference leans toward herbal supplements.

Skincare is equally important to Gumabao, and he reveals a penchant for CV Skin by Cathy Valencia products. Their skincare products, made from natural and carefully selected ingredients, align perfectly with his values.

Read more about Marco’s ways in living a happy and active life in MEGA Man’s September 2023 issue, now available on Readly, Magzter, Press Reader and Zinio.