Irish singer Susan Bluechild is very health conscious and is aiming to have a body like Pamela Anderson, she tells Patricia Weston
How do you keep fit? I run three to four times a week. I use a 400m running track near my home and aim to run four to eight laps of it. I stick the iPod on and off I go. I would love to run more often but I don't always have the time.
Why run? It keeps my metabolism ticking over and I sweat like mad when I run, which keeps the inches off. I really believe it is important to keep fit and I love running. Even when I have a busy schedule I make the effort to get out for a run because I really miss it if I can't get to the track and I feel really bad.
Do you combine another activity with running? I also do weights in the gym. I got a personal trainer as a gift from a friend and she has designed a programme for me to follow. I've really toned up my arms and legs and feel very strong as a result. I'm a big fan of weight training because it gives you great strength.
I naturally have a curvy figure and I've noticed my waist has become thinner and my whole body is leaner and so strong. I'm aiming for a body like Pamela Anderson!
Do you diet? Two years ago I was two stone overweight because I was just eating way too much. I have since lost a stone and a half.
I saw a nutritionist who put me on a low GI diet and advised me to drink more water.
The plan includes lots of grains and oats - foods that are released slowly into the body so you don't feel hungry.
I also keep away from white bread and biscuits.
I used to have a problem with chocolate but now I eat yoghurt instead and it works.
Are you very body conscious? Yes, I am totally conscious of my appearance as a singer.
My weight crept up in the past but now I have controlled my snacking and cravings and I'm not hungry and my energy levels are up.
I'm happy with the way I look now and I'm very, very conscious of my health.
Susan Bluechild's debut album, Non Stop To Venus, has just been launched.
For more information visit: www.susanbluechild.com or www.myspace.com/susanbluechild
Patricia Weston recommends:
If you also crave a curvy and toned figure, try this training plan to sculpt your body:
Tone your arms and shoulders with upper-body weight lifting. With a 2-5kg weight in each hand, bend your arms at the elbow and lift to the level of your shoulders, keeping your palms facing forward. Repeat eight to 10 sets three times.
Stand with your knees slightly bent and your feet hip distance apart.
Extend your elbows as you raise the weights over your head, hold for two seconds and return slowly to the starting position.
Repeat eight to 10 sets three times.
Side bends can carve away your waistline. Lie on your side on the floor, leaning on your elbow and forearm with your back straight and your knees bent.
Slowly lift your hips off the floor and hold for at least four seconds.
Repeat for eight counts, three times on each side.
Lie on your stomach on the floor resting your chin on your hands. Raise your right leg as high as you can and then return it to the floor for a toned and curvy bum.
Perform eight of these on each leg for three sets each.
Combine these exercises with an aerobic activity like running, walking or cycling to achieve toned and shapely legs.
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates teacher.
Consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider before embarking on any exercise regime and stop exercising if you feel nauseous or dizzy.