Eddie Barrett, a 35-year-old NYPD detective, has become quite the social media star with his intense nightly workouts. Known as “50Cal” to his fans, Barrett told Fox News Digital that he has not skipped a workout in over two decades. His goal is to motivate fellow officers to prioritize fitness, asserting that there are no valid excuses for not staying in shape while on duty.
Balancing his duties as a police officer with family life and fitness, Barrett documents his daily life to inspire others. He believes that juggling work, family, and gym time is entirely possible. As a married father, he emphasizes maintaining a healthy lifestyle as crucial, sharing that his routine begins with an ice bath at midnight before heading to the Bronx for work.
Barrett works in a demanding unit of the NYPD that tracks dangerous criminals, but his day starts much earlier than his shift. Before punching in, he hits the gym for a rigorous workout routine. His day typically runs from 3:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and he makes sure to spend quality time with his family before calling it a night by 8 p.m.
“Getting my training in is of utmost priority,” Barrett explained. Despite his wife’s teasing and others thinking he’s crazy, he insists on maintaining his routine. To him, exercising first thing in the morning sets the tone for the day, becoming an integral part of his identity.
Even on weekends, Barrett is up by 3 a.m. to take an ice bath before working out at home, freeing up the rest of the day for family. On vacation, like his recent trip to the Cayman Islands, he keeps up his routine by running on the beach at night with a headlamp before hitting the gym.
Barrett uses social media to upload his workout videos and motivational messages daily. He aims to inspire others, especially his fellow officers, to stay in shape for their safety and effectiveness on the job. “If [a suspect] wants to run or wants to fight, they will lose,” Barrett said, highlighting the importance of being faster and stronger.
He recommends a hybrid training approach, which combines strength and cardio exercises. Barrett mixes heavy lifting with runs and high-intensity sessions. While he doesn’t expect everyone to follow his exact routine, he stresses the importance of staying fit for duty, pointing out that some agencies have lowered fitness standards due to recruitment challenges.
Barrett believes that maintaining a fit appearance commands respect and boosts confidence. He shares his personal tricks for getting up early, emphasizing that life is short and there’s much to achieve. “We have to be the best versions of ourselves,” he said, urging people to avoid procrastination and stay focused.
Family is a significant aspect of Barrett’s life and career. He proudly wears his late grandfather’s police badge as a necklace, continuing a family tradition. His young son, Henry, has expressed an interest in following in his footsteps, which Barrett finds rewarding.
Despite his rigorous training and work schedule, Barrett ensures that family time remains a priority. He acknowledges that business growth and fitness goals might take a backseat but won’t compromise his family time. “The memories we gather with our families are the most important things in the world,” he reflected, underscoring the value of family life.
Barrett’s dedication to fitness and family has earned him a large following on social media. He balances his responsibilities while managing a supplements business, crediting his strict discipline for his ability to maintain this balance. He encourages others to establish their own core principles to guide them through life’s challenges.
