King Charles recently spoke to Olympic and Paralympic athletes about the workout schedule he follows to stay fit during his cancer treatments – revealing just how intense it is.

The discussion was held at a Buckingham Palace reception he hosted for the Olympic and Paralympic medal winners, where he told the women’s athletic team that he “exercises twice a day.”

The King was known for previously following a strict programme of Royal Navy-style exercises he picked up during his time in the Armed Forces.

Now, the monarch is 75 years old, days away from 76, revealed to sprinter Desirèe Henry that he “squats and does the pull-up bar” as part of his impressive routine.

King Charles, who was accompanied by Princess Anne and the Duchess of Gloucester, appeared to be in high spirits as the guests were served champagne and canapes – King Charles himself did not have any.

Queen Camilla was set to join the King at the event. However, she rested at home due to a chest infection.

Some of the athletes who were present at the reception and met the King were diving champion Jack Laughter – where the pair got to chat.

He said: “He [The King] was really interested in our sports facilities and training programme. This was the most successful Games for diving, especially for women.”

Dame Sara Storey, Britain’s most successful Paralympian and Iona Winnifrith, the youngest member of ParalympicsGB was also at the Buckingham Palace.

The young Paralympian who made her debut at just 13 years old won silver in the women’s 100m Breaststroke SB7 at the 2024 Paralympic Games, making history as ParalympicsGB’s joint-youngest swimming medallist.

Iona Winnifrith said: “I can’t remember what he said to me, but it was very cool to meet the King. I am very sad Camilla is not here.”

The Queen who is recovering also had to miss both the annual opening of the Field of Remembrance and the reception.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: “Her Majesty The Queen is currently unwell with a chest infection, for which her doctors have advised a short period of rest.

“With great regret, Her Majesty has therefore had to withdraw from her engagements for this week but she very much hopes to be recovered in time to attend this weekend’s Remembrance events as normal.

“She apologises to all those who may be inconvenienced or disappointed as a result.”