Noteworthy NCIS News

Fit at Any Age – hat tip to Cote-de-Pablo.net

Q: You’re on the go a lot these days. How do you find the time to stay
in shape?

I rely on a combination of core training and yoga 4 or 5 times a week. And I try to find time either in the morning before work or after – I definitely work out on the weekends, because it’s the only time I’m sure I won’t be working. That’s my biggest challenge – to stay constant. It’s hard to have a 12-hour day and then find time for working out. That’s one reason why I work with a trainer, to help accelerate results.

Q: What suggestions do you have for women who have time but might not be able to afford a trainer?

Go out and run around your neighborhood! Drive your car two miles to measure it out and then you can run that distance. Hiking is free if you live in an area that is conducive to it. Also, individual yoga classes can cost around $14-$20 and you can go to one or two and pick up some moves, then do them at home yourself with some really relaxing music that inspires you to move.

Q: What’s the greatest gift you receive from working out?

Energy – the more I work out the more energy I have. It keeps my immune system strong – and let’s not deny it, vanity. After all, I am a girl and I am on TV everyday! And I play a character that has to be able to kick men around all day!

Q: In your age group, what are the biggest advantages as they relate
to fitness?

You know yourself. You know your body better than when you were younger, so you know exactly what it needs. For example, here’s a little tip that works for me and I suggest it to everyone in my age group: if you’re going to have a really big meal, make it breakfast and then progressively eat less throughout the day. Do not eat heavy, heavy meals at night. Drink lots of water and lead an active life.

Q: How about disadvantages?

Your metabolism doesn’t respond in the same way that it used to.

Q: It sounds like fitness has always come naturally for you. Is that true, or are you one of those blessed with great genes?

When I was a child, fitness was something I excelled in because I didn’t have to speak English, which is a second language for me. It was a way of hiding. Later on, it became part of my curriculum – I went to a performing arts high school, so dance was a major part of the program.

Q: How did your parents influence your fitness regime?

My dad is the fitness freak in the family. My mother hates exercise! Eat right, eat healthy and learn to enjoy the exercise – whatever that may be.

Q: Let’s talk about some favorites: power snack?

I love fruits. Love nuts. Love hummus and carrots.

Q: Favorite healthy food?

A really good, healthy Chinese chicken salad without all the fried things on it.

Q: Favorite indulgence food?

Chocolate. CHOCOLATE. Anything chocolate!!!!!!!!!!

Q: Favorite iPod tunes for working out?

Anything that makes me JUMP! Anything from The Roots to Prodigy to MGMT to really good Moby music.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to get busy women started on a healthy routine?

First of all, give yourself an hour a day to yourself – to just be you, if you can. During that hour, try and do something active.It doesn’t mean hiking a mountain or running, it could be putting on music and taking a walk. But just start with that hour, you’ll be amazed where it can take you!