Model Nell McAndrewtells Patricia Weston that, although she loves to exercise, it's much harder now with a baby in tow
Are you fit?
Yes, I used to train five-six times a week but now it's more like three times a week due to having a baby.
Juggling the baby, work and training has proven much more difficult than I thought as I hadn't realised how tired I would get.
I have very broken sleep and am still breastfeeding so I feel pretty drained most of the time but I love exercise and it really lifts me and makes me feel more energised so it is worth doing as much as I can.
I love the feeling I get when I exercise and it's very addictive as I get such a buzz from it.
What's your workout?
I love to either go for a run outside, go to the gym or do one of my own fitness DVDs. If I go to the gym, I like to cross-train and do cardio and weights or sometimes a body pump class.
Do you worry about how you look?
I used to worry about my appearance much more than I do now. To be honest, I don't always get time to brush my hair. Making sure I have all I need for Devon - food, nappies, wipes, etc - after clearing all the mess up from breakfast takes most of the morning. As long as Devon is okay, I tend to just dash out as I am. I do need to start to take a bit more care though and maybe at least make sure I have covered up any spots first.
Is there any part of your body you'd like to change?
I would love a bigger bum and more curves but due to running and still breastfeeding there's not much of me to grab hold of right now.
Do you have a good diet?
Yes, I eat tons of fruit and vegetables, fish and pasta. I don't drink fizzy drinks and only have the occasional coffee. I might have only one glass of wine a fortnight at the moment too.
How do you feel about exercise?
There's nothing like it. It's great for the mind as well as the body. It makes you feel happier, energised and more positive and confident. Exercise helps keep you looking younger too.
Patricia Weston recommends:
If, like Nell, you'd like a bigger and shapelier bum, why not try these bottom toners:
Using a fit ball, perform the split lunge; begin by standing straight then put one leg back on the ball making sure your knee is over the front of your toe, then lower your body, lunge and return to the starting position. Do three sets of 15 repetitions.
Place the ball at the small of your back against a wall. Begin in a standing position and slowly lower your body keeping your knees over your toes, then raise your body by pressing off with your heels. Repeat 12 times for three sets.
Perform an elbow instep lunge by using callisthenics, ie using only your body weight as resistance. Do an ordinary lunge but extend your body farther forward and keep your elbow together with the leg you lunge forward with and try not to touch the opposite knee on the ground. Perform three sets of 12-15 repetitions.
Do the jump squat by standing with your legs less than hip distance apart and your feet facing forward, your thighs should be level with the ground. Then push off with your calves and bum muscles and tuck your knees into your chest as you jump up. As you bring your feet back down, keep your knees bent. Repeat 12 times for three sets.
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.