However, the Duke of Edinburgh, 86, refused to listen to doctors’ orders for him to do gentle stretches and walking, and instead insists on completing 50 press-ups or sit-ups every morning before eating the fried breakfast comprising eggs, sausages, bacon and black pudding.
A source close to the prince said: 'His enthusiasm has taken everybody by surprise. The duke always dismissed health fads. He believed walking around Edinburgh’s Balmoral Castle or shooting at Norfolk’s Sandringham House was enough to keep him fit. But he finds the new regime rejuvenating. “It reminds him how he enjoyed the tough Royal Navy training when he was in his prime. Those close to him are delighted because they know when Philip is asked to do something he often ignores it or does the opposite.” The prince isn’t the only person benefitting from the new fitness regime – his wife, Britain’s Queen Elizabeth, is reportedly very pleased at the change in the prince’s personality.
The source added: “Prince Philip is the only senior royal who religiously demands a daily fry-up. The Queen was becoming concerned at the possible toll on his health. The exercise has not only made him fitter - he is also far less grumpy.”