Strictly’s Karen Hauer gives us her Week In Fitness
Usually with a cup of coffee. I’m an early riser and get up around 7am – I have three rescue dogs, so they get me up early. I’ve recently tried to start creating new healthy habits, like reading a book instead of scrolling through Instagram.
What time of day do you exercise?
The morning is when I’m at my best. It sets you up for the day and it gets your endorphins flowing, so you feel positive to tackle the day. If not in the morning, then between 4pm and 6pm.
What workouts do you do?
I love cardio workouts – anything that gets my heart rate up and gets a good sweat on. I work on my balance, core and flexibility, too, which are important for my dancing career.
How many workouts do you do a week?
I try and work out six days a week and have one rest day, but I listen to my body. If I feel like I don’t want to work out, then I’ll take a longer dog walk or I’ll just stretch or jump rope at home. I like to do things that make me happy and that I enjoy.
How do you motivate yourself when you’re not feeling in the
mood?
Exercise for me has become a habit over the years, so I try not to stop myself. I like to try and do something, even if it’s really minimal and just ten minutes. As long as it’s something, then I don’t beat myself up about it.
What are your favourite gymwear brands?
I live in my gymwear, so a good set of gym leggings is vital for me. I hate anything that slides down, and I don’t want to be worrying that my sports bra is too loose and my boobs are not where they should be. I really love Sweaty Betty’s fabric as it’s really breathable. LNDR is brilliant, too, because the leggings are high on the waist. If you’re feeling bloated, or it’s the time of the month, they bring you in but aren’t suffocating.
What’s your favourite pre/post workout snack?
One of my favourite things to do in this world is eat! I eat throughout the day. I really love an octopus salad, as it’s full of protein and is really fresh when it’s warm outside. I also love Barebells Protein Bars – I’m not usually a protein bar eater, but they are really good.
What’s your cheat food?
I’m a chocolate fiend and I’m obsessed with Cadbury’s milk chocolate bars. Not the individual bars, I’m talking about the whole 200g bars to myself. I like to indulge on those a lot.
Karen Hauer’s at-home, equipment-free fitness plans Hauer Power Plan 1 and Plan 2 are available for £16 each at Karenhauer.fit
‘I love an octopus salad’