Why is it important for you to feel (and look) healthy?
For me, it is an energy thing. When I set up my business, I really needed to wake up sharp every day. I couldn’t afford to get sick and run down, so I took some advice on what to eat to maximise my energy levels.
I have always been into healthy eating – I think it comes from your parents and how you were raised. I grew up in New Zealand on a fruit orchard and we always had a lot of fresh produce right from the garden – properly ‘organic’, and you really can’t beat the taste. I think that’s part of the reason I really care about the freshness, quality and provenance of my food.
“When I set up my business, I really needed to wake up sharp every day.”
“I grew up in New Zealand on a fruit orchard and we always had a lot of fresh produce right from the garden.”
What foods or groups of foods (if any) do you avoid?
I steer clear of dairy and gluten because I am intolerant to them – I have trouble digesting them. I also tend to avoid sugar, mainly because my energy crashes quite soon after eating it, and there are countless other widely-reported reasons, too – it ages you, causes bloating, affects the immune system, the list goes on. But I’m not overly fastidious – I do occasionally indulge in a dessert or two!
What do you think are the most nutritious foods?
There are so many nutritious foods… I try to eat lots of vegetables and drink fresh vegetable juices when I can. I also try to include some kind of protein with every meal.
What is your optimal breakfast?
I have a morning shake after the gym which contains rice protein, ice, berries, super greens powder, a scoop of nut formula (chopped almonds, walnuts, brazil nuts, coenzyme Q10, and flaxseed), fresh mint, almond milk, and a squeeze of agave. I also add a spoon of booster powder, such as maca or baobab. It’s really energising as well as delicious.
“I do reformer Pilates twice a week… I am really lucky to be introduced to new classes and fitness trends all the time…” Image: www.ggstudio.com.tr
Your favourite snacks?
Brazil nuts (I love them) and a piece of fresh fruit – especially apples.
What’s your exercise routine/schedule?
I do reformer Pilates twice a week and I run in Hyde Park two or three times a week. I also go to the gym to use the weights and work out with a trainer when I can.
What do you wear to work out?
“I love to snack on a piece of fresh fruit – especially apples.”
It really depends on what workout I am doing. If it’s high impact, I wear a supportive sports bra and some super supportive tights such as the LUCAS HUGH Kepler Capris. If I am doing yoga or Pilates, I go for a comfortable foundation layer like the LUCAS HUGH Iris bodysuit and a pair of our stitch-free leggings.
“You have to want to exercise to start with; if it’s a chore, you are doing the wrong thing.”
How do you fit exercise around your work schedule?
I get up at six and work out in the mornings before the day begins – it really helps clear the head and energise me for the day ahead. I plan the individual workout sessions at the beginning of the week.
You have to want to do it to start with; if it’s a chore, you are doing the wrong thing. I think pre-planning helps, and being organised – packing the gym bag the night before.
