Emme Lentino is from America, but has called New Zealand home for the last decade; she is a singer-songwriter, Actress, Film Producer and Co-host of Heart of Indie Radio.
RITIKA: WHAT’S FITNESS ACCORDING TO YOU?
Emme: Fitness is the way I keep my body and mind active. I always feel better after I work out- clear mind and a stronger body.
RITIKA: AT WHAT AGE OR STAGE OF YOUR LIFE DID FITNESS BECOME A MAJOR PART OF YOUR LIFESTYLE?
Emme: I was always active as a kid in dance and sports. I have been enjoying staying healthy ever since. As an adult I find I need to stay active to maintain my overall health, body and mind.
RITIKA: I OFTEN TELL PEOPLE THAT DEDICATION TO FITNESS STARTS WITH MOTIVATION. WHO OR WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO WORKOUT AND EAT HEALTHILY?
Emme: I am motivated to stay fit and healthy because I have seen first hand in my own life, what happens when you are faced with health problems. Having been a care- taker for my late husband who passed from cancer, friends who have faced illness and my own sport injuries These are all factors that have made me really appreciate my health. Last year I had a severe neck injury. I couldn’t move very well, workout or drive while recovering. I was so determined to get healthy again and extra careful to take care of myself.
RITIKA: WHAT’S YOUR TYPICAL WORKOUT ROUTINE?
Emme: I try and move everyday! A run around the lake, a good dance workout with friends or Hot Pilates and Bikram Yoga(Thank you Breathe NZ for keeping me fit!)
RITIKA: WHAT GENRES OF MUSIC DO YOU LISTEN TO WHILE YOU’RE WORKING OUT?
Emme: I love working out to EDM or really high energy pop songs! If it has a good beat, I feel motivated to sweat and work hard!
RITIKA: WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE MEAL OF THE DAY?
Emme: My favorite meal is dinner! I love the planning, the cooking and the celebration of eating good food with family and friends. It is also a meal that is never rushed. I really value the process of creating and sharing good food with loved ones.
RITIKA: WHAT’S THE MAIN RULE IN YOUR DIET?
Emme: Eat Green and add spice when you can (I am a huge fan of fresh chili flakes and spice!)
RITIKA: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CHEAT MEAL?
Emme: LOL! Oh probably a veggie burrito with extra hot sauce! If I’m super cheeky, I will add some fresh cut fries in the oven as well. Why not?
RITIKA: DOES IT DRIVE YOU CRAZY WHEN YOU DON’T GET TO EXERCISE?
Emme: Have you been spying on me? Yes, I do feel a bit out of whack when I cannot workout. But in saying that, I feel that keeping a sound and focused mind keeps me from really getting grumpy. I do puzzles, word games and word searches or I dance to a good song and really get the heart going. It all helps.
RITIKA: WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER WORKOUT HEAVEN?
Emme: Probably a good 6k run followed by Hot Pilates and a good stretch and a cool down with enough time to reflect and rebalance.
RITIKA: ONE FITNESS AND LIFESTYLE ADVICE YOU WOULD LIKE TO GIVE TO OUR READERS
Emme: If you are like me and you get stressed and maybe overeat, and or fall out of a good routine remember…It’s never too late to start over! I think it’s important to embrace every season you are in. Be willing to accept yourself as you are on the day. Your body and mind are incredible gifts. Treat them well.