How Shameless Star Steve Howey Stays Sane (Hint: It Involves Sweating and a Camera)

When Steve Howey isn’t playing bartender Kevin Ball on the Showtime hit Shameless, the 6’4″ actor is getting physical. Whether racing triathlons, golfing, trying Muay Thai with co-star Jeremy Allen White, shooting hoops, or snowboarding with his son, Howey says being active, “brings sanity, increases testosterone, and de-stresses you.”

The Manual caught up with Howey to see how the 41-year-old philanthropist, producer, and dad gets his sweat on.

The Manual: What are your favorite outdoor hobbies?

Steve Howey: I like to run outside in general [hills] for a workout. That’s definitely a hard one. For a more extreme activity, I definitely love snowboarding. Then, I like playing baseball with friends and my son.

TM: You didn’t mention hoops … which we’re pretty sure you’re a semi-pro in?

SH: You could say I’m an expert in basketball. I played in college. I’d been playing for a long time, and I’ve always loved it. I still love watching it too. I’m a Lakers fan, for sure.

TM: Would Kevin Ball ball? Or do something else outdoors?

SH: Sell drugs [Laughs]. He’d smoke cigarettes and watch people drive by.

TM: Do you film your outdoor activities?

SH: Absolutely! It’s fun to shoot outdoor adventures to not only have a record of what you’re doing but also go back and relive those moments. OPKIXOne has made the process super simple, easy, and hands-free for me. I’ll put on the sunglasses and I don’t have to hold my phone up anymore or mount it. The angles you can get with both cameras are really crazy too, given their size and flexibility.

TM: We feel weird filming ourselves since we’re not pros, but should we start?

SH: Everybody should be able to celebrate and commemorate their adventures, workouts, or outdoor activities. I’ll film workouts often. I might Instagram Story a new workout I’m trying document a marathon or triathlon I just finished or I’m preparing for. It’s cool to go back and study what you did. For personal moments, it’s just great to have that saved forever.

TM: Tell us more about OPKIXOne. Is it like a GoPro?

SH: The goal of OPKIX was to democratize the whole [filming] process. You don’t need an elaborate setup anymore. I think the company has achieved unparalleled ease-of-use right out of the box.

TM: You’re such a happy dude — do you credit that to being active and getting outside?

SH: It’s one of the most important things for everyone, not just guys. It helps release dopamine in the brain, which makes you feel better. Sweating is just good for you.

TM: Even on off-days, you get outside on your motorcycle. What’s your favorite bike?

SH: My all-time favorite bike is the Harley Davidson Dyna Wide Glide. I’ve got one that I love.