Interview with Fitness Guru Denise Austin

Maranda Pleasant: Any tips on slimming down for working moms? What are a few ways we can incorporate movement and fitness into our busy everyday lives?

Denise Austin: Motherhood is one of the most rewarding and challenging jobs a woman can have, and a lot of women today have full-time jobs that they need to tend to as well, which makes it seem extremely difficult to have a consistent workout routine—but I am telling you that you can!

The minimum daily requirement to keep muscles in tip-top shape is 10 minutes. Every morning, I get up 10 minutes early and do a few sets of targeted exercises to get my blood flowing and wake those muscles up and bring more oxygen into my body, which gives me more energy.

You are your own architect of your body, and posture is an essential element of your health. Work on being present and aware of your posture wherever you are. If you are commuting to work or sitting at your desk, tighten your tummy for 10 seconds and then release. This simple action is equivalent to one sit-up.

Another thing that I do to sneak exercise into my busy work schedule is to have a set of three-pound weights at my desk and while I am on the phone I will do shoulder rolls, tricep and bicep curls throughout the day.

Invest in a standing desk at the office. Standing burns twice as many calories as sitting and is great for your circulation, prevents varicose veins and improves your posture. An alternative to the standing desk is to replace your office chair with an exercise ball that will have you focus on your posture and activate your abs while doing your work.

MP: How do you keep your center in the middle of chaos? Do you have a daily routine?

DA: Fitness is one of the best ways to counteract the stresses and anxiety of life. One of my go-to practices is yoga. I have been practicing yoga for 20 years and it has helped me stay grounded and centered through the chaotic events that have been put in front of me. Whether it be running from the office or a meeting to shoot a live segment for television, or having a large, unexpected group of friends show up at the house, I have learned to take everything in stride, keep calm and keep moving forward.

I attribute my ability to keep myself centered to fitness and a true foundation of knowing who I am. Exercise releases endorphins that are the happy hormones that make you feel good after a workout and help you focus at your task rather than being swept up into the chaos.

MP: What have been some of your biggest lessons so far in life?

DA: While I was growing up, my father taught me that the harder you work the luckier you get, and that is one of the best pieces of advice I have received and believe in.

MP: What truth do you know for sure?

DA: A healthy lifestyle that consists of exercise, eating right, a positive attitude and outlook on life, and cherishing the people around you keeps you young. I feel great at 61.