DANCING
Training: Male ballet dancers use their core a lot. To get that six pack, I do 40 push-ups and sit-ups every morning. Then I use a theraband to do biceps and triceps exercises. That’s all before Joburg Ballet’s daily warm-up class at the studios, which lasts over an hour, to warm up and stretch our muscles. Then there’s a full day of rehearsals.
At the end of the day I do focused stretches to warm up my hip area.
What you eat defines your body: Lots of fish — especially tuna — and veggies, and I drink lots of water to stay hydrated. I love to have a piece of steak now and again, too, for protein. Some fruit is good, but not too much as they contain a lot of sugar. I eat pasta for carbs. It doesn’t hurt to add a green salad.
Shuteye: I sleep about seven hours, waking up at around 6.30am. I usually lie in for an hour, though. Before every performance I have to take a power nap, otherwise I don’t feel comfortable onstage. It’s a pre-performance ritual for me.
Fitness tips: Walk before you run. Going to the gym can be intimidating, so try to have a swim for about 30 minutes a few times a week. It helps to keep your heart rate up and builds endurance and muscle strength. Don’t use trolleys when you’re transporting your groceries from A to B — carrying your shopping bags will give your arms a workout! Shanthini Naidoo