Joe Wicks refused to follow the same life path as his heroin addict dad.
The 33-year-old TV star – who is known as The Body Coach – has revealed that he and his brother Nikki, 36, have always relished being fit and healthy because of the struggles of their dad.
Joe told Russell Brand’s ‘Under The Skin’ podcast: "Because of my dad’s addiction, and the damage I saw that cause, me and Nikki steered clear of it.
"We weren’t smoking weed, we were training, exercising and playing sport. Along the line, I decided that wasn’t going to be my destiny – that wasn’t going to be my path."
Joe’s dad was in and out of rehab throughout his childhood.
And according to the fitness coach, his mum Raquela was responsible for teaching him the difference between "right and wrong".
Joe added: "Now, when my dad’s going through a low period, I’m texting him and ringing him and asking how he is – I’m not judging him for being an addict.
"He’ll always be an addict – he relapses all the time."
Joe stressed the importance of exercise, saying it can often help people to overcome low points in their lives.
He explained: "Before you turn to binge eating, addiction, drugs or anti-depressants, try exercise.
"It’s hard … my dad says the last thing he wants to do when he’s going through his low points is exercise. But I say, ‘Dad, you know how it makes you feel – you always feel better.’"
Joe Wicks refused to follow in his dad’s footsteps
