Macho photo stunt: Pumping iron, Putin-style

Amazingly Putin managed to resist the urge to rip off his t-shirt, preferring to complete his whole workout without revealing his torso. Photo / Getty Images

From horse riding to hunting, Vladimir Putin has long portrayed himself as Russia's action-man president and this morning was no different with the Russian president being pictured enthusiastically working out with prime minister Dmitry Medvedev in his gym in Sochi.

Amazingly, Putin managed to resist the urge to rip off his t-shirt, preferring to complete his whole workout without revealing his famous torso.

After struggling to keep up with Putin, Medvedev joined the President for a relaxing cup of tea and breakfast at his residence in Bocharov Ruchei.

The Russian president has been pictured enthusiastically working out with prime minister Dmitry Medvedev in his gym in Sochi. Photo / Getty Images

Wearing a pair of powerlifting gloves, grey jogging bottoms and a plain t-shirt, Putin appeared to be well-prepared for an intense workout.

Striding into the gym with Medvedev, the Russian president seemed to be at ease in the gym, quickly showing off strength with an easy arm workout on the cable crossover.

Pausing to reset his feet, Putin leans forward as he works on the cable crossover, slightly blowing his cheeks out as he starts to feel the strain o his arms and upper back.

After powering through a few more reps on various pieces of gym equipment, Putin gave a few words of wisdom to Medvedev, watching closely over his shoulder as he worked out.

Putin also allows enough time to work on his hamstrings, gently bouncing on a balance board whilst holding on to a nearby conditioning machine.

Whilst Putin is well known for his action-man personality, Medvedev is also no stranger to exercise either. He has previously been seen playing badminton and is a keen ice hockey and judo fan.

A few more lifts and the 62-year-old president called time on his workout before the two friends heading off for a quick barbecue. Always keen to take the lead, Putin quickly grabbed the tongs and demonstrated his culinary skills, turning the skewered meat over the flames.

The main chef intervened and gave the two men a bit of advice on achieving the perfect grill. With the meat finally ready, Putin and Medvedev sat outside at a table for a spot of breakfast.

Raising their china tea mugs, the president and prime minister made a toast before digging into a much deserved breakfast.

Both the Russian president and prime minister are always keen to show off his sporting prowess, particularly Vladimir Putin. Following a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi last month, Putin said he was planning on giving yoga a try.

In May the Russian president took part in a charity ice hockey game in May, managing to get on the scoresheet and has also previously been seen fishing and hunting topless in various country settings.

- Daily Mail