Robert Irwin Reveals Three Ways He Prepares for 'DWTS'—Then Admits His Body Is 'Starting to Break Down'

Robert Irwin may be waltzing his way into America's hearts, but behind the sequins and smiles, the young wildlife warrior joked he's doing everything he can to keep his body from falling apart.

Robert Irwin, the beloved conservationist and son of the late Steve Irwin, made a polished appearance at the star-studded premiere of "Zootopia 2" in Los Angeles on November 13, 2025, flashing his signature smile for the cameras. But behind the red carpet charm lies a reality far less glamorous.

In a candid and revealing interview with People, Robert pulled back the curtain on the physical cost of his exciting "Dancing with the Stars" journey.

"I am being held together by like, tape," the 21-year-old admitted with a wry laugh. "My foot's all bandaged up."

Cryotherapy, Saunas, and Salt Baths: His Painful Three-Step Routine

To keep up with the punishing pace of rehearsals, Robert has committed to an intense recovery regimen. He revealed he's using cryotherapy, sauna sessions, and Epsom salt baths to help his body recover between dances.

"Everything I can possibly do to try and keep my body in line," he explained — before adding, with a touch of humor and humility, "because, woo, it's starting to break down a little bit."

Despite the exhaustion and discomfort, Robert remains fully committed to the competition. "I wouldn't change it for the world," he insisted.

From Wildlife to Waltzes: Robert Embraces a New Challenge

Known for following in his father's footsteps as a wildlife advocate and TV personality at the Australia Zoo, Robert's turn on the ballroom floor has shown fans a deeply personal and vulnerable side.

He's been partnered with seasoned pro Witney Carson since the season kicked off in September 2025, and their chemistry, both on and off the dance floor, has earned them a loyal following.

Irwin Women Step In: Emotional Family Appearances Melt Hearts

But Robert hasn't danced alone. His biggest supporters, his mother, Terri Irwin, and sister, Bindi Irwin, have been right by his side, cheering him on through the emotional highs and painful lows.

Terri stunned audiences when she walked onstage at the end of Robert's touching tribute performance to Phil Collins' "You’ll Be in My Heart," a moment that left fans and judges in tears.

Then, just one day before the "Zootopia 2" premiere, Bindi returned to the "DWTS" stage to support her brother during an especially powerful routine.

Robert and Witney danced to Leona Lewis's "Footprints in the Sand," and Bindi joined them to help close out the number, bringing her own history full circle, a decade after winning the mirrorball trophy in season 21.

Dancing Through Grief: A Son's Tribute to His Father

Robert later opened up on Instagram, sharing the emotional weight behind the performance and the legacy he carries. "I carry Dad’s legacy with me in everything I do, and it was a privilege to dedicate our foxtrot to him," he shared.

"Thank you @bindisueirwin for inspiring us with your freestyle to this song, and thank you @witneycarson for once again choreographing such a beautiful story through dance and for creating a space for me to convey raw emotions that I’ve never gotten to share before," he said, completing his message.

As the competition intensifies and the pressure builds, Robert Irwin remains a source of inspiration — exhausted, yet determined to power through to the very end.