‘Today I have a flatter tummy than when I was 19’
says LORRAINE KELLY, who discovered dance aerobics at a local church hall class
Three years ago, I was staying with my best friend in Spain when she insisted I tried her new Zumba class. I was on holiday and all I wanted to do was drink Rioja and have a laugh, but she convinced me to give it a go. I loved it – I felt like I’d found my exercise and was determined to carry on with it. I live in London during the week when I’m working, and I found a class that was held in a church hall right next to my flat.
The classes are run by Maxine Jones. I enjoyed it so much that now I go to two classes a week and genuinely look forward to
them. For that hour, there’s nothing else to worry about – we’re all laughing and enjoying ourselves. It’s good for the soul. No matter what job you do, when you get to your 50s-60s-70s, you need something for you – and that’s how I feel about the classes. They’ve changed my life, and not just in the way they have got me fit.
I love dancing. Maxine plays great Beyoncé tracks, so we all think we’re on stage – there are no mirrors in the church hall, which is probably a good thing! It works out my whole body. I haven’t done a sit-up, but my stomach is flatter than it was when I was 19 because I’m using every muscle without realising it.
I’ll be 58 this year, and I’m at the stage when you really have start keeping fit. It makes you feel better, healthier and gives you confidence.
It’s improved my metabolism and my body shape has changed – I’ve got my waist back. My arms are something I’d never show off, but, during the Summer, I’ve worn sleeveless dresses on TV. I wouldn’t have done that when I was younger, but when you’re toned up, you can wear what you want – and so you should!