Ava Cantrell was born in San Diego, California, and began her acting career in 2008. She has appeared in many TV commercials, music videos and short films. She gained notoriety as Penelope Pritchard on Nickelodeon series Haunted Hathaways and won a 35th Young Artist Awards in 2014 for her recurring role. She has the lead role of Brooklyn in the 2015 web-series Cam Girls the Series which has won numerous awards.
RITIKA: WHAT’S FITNESS ACCORDING TO YOU?
Ava: Fitness to me is a healthy lifestyle that includes overall wellness, physical fitness where you continue to challenge yourself. It is not focused on a scale number but having a healthy lifestyle.
RITIKA: AT WHAT AGE OR STAGE OF YOUR LIFE DID FITNESS BECOME A MAJOR PART OF YOUR LIFESTYLE?
Ava: I was a competitive dancer from five years old until my teens. That sport taught me so much about the importance of exercise, fitness, and nutrition from a very early age. Ever since then, fitness has been an essential part of my life that brings me joy, motivation, and an overall sense of wellbeing.
RITIKA: I OFTEN TELL PEOPLE THAT DEDICATION TO FITNESS STARTS WITH MOTIVATION. WHO OR WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO WORKOUT AND EAT HEALTHILY?
Ava: For me, the motivation comes from the sport or fitness itself. I really do love to go workout and it’s such a mood booster. I love feeling capable and challenging myself. It’s easier to get motivated for fitness if you can find something that brings you joy and doesn’t feel like a chore. For some, going for a run is awful, but for others, it is a great way for them to get out boost their mood. A lot of it is about finding something that you enjoy and can look forward to. As far as healthy eating, it was something my parents have always emphasized and has stuck with me. There have been times where I get more off track, but as of recently, I have found the joy in eating healthy and been consistent in breaking bad habits. Also, I like to eat, and I think if you deprive yourself it only leads to failure.
RITIKA: WHAT’S YOUR TYPICAL WORKOUT ROUTINE?
Ava: I have many different “workouts” on my list. I like to mix it up, so I don’t get bored of one thing. I like to use my weight machine for the majority of the workout and then pair it with more of a cardio activity like jump rope or boxing. In the summer surfing fills my schedule. It is one of my biggest passions in life and I have been doing it for 12 years. If the weathers nice I’ll go on a hike and bring my dog. Occasionally I’ll go on a jog if I have a lot of motivation. Rock climbing, swimming, and basketball are also fun sports I like for a great workout.
RITIKA: WHAT GENRES OF MUSIC DO YOU LISTEN TO WHILE YOU’RE WORKING OUT?
Ava: Adrenaline boosting music is a must. My playlist is mostly alternative rock and classic rock jams. Occasionally I might listen to a podcast like “Star Talk” or something that will make me laugh.
RITIKA: WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE MEAL OF THE DAY?
Ava: I am such a foodie, I don’t think I could pick! I’m definitely not afraid to switch it up though, breakfast food for dinner is awesome. And honestly, sometimes I wake up and just feel like a sandwich.
RITIKA: WHAT’S THE MAIN RULE IN YOUR DIET?
Ava: My main rule is no rules. If I start giving myself guidelines, I stress myself out and get discouraged. The most important thing in my diet is mindful eating. Listening to what your body says should be a top priority. If I do that, I end up eating healthy, getting the nutrients I need, staying hydrated, not binging, and treating myself occasionally. Some days I’m not that hungry and eat light, and that’s okay. Some days I need more food than others to not get hangry and tired, and that’s alright too.
RITIKA: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CHEAT MEAL?
Ava: Burgers and fries for sure! Whether it’s fast food or from a cool burger joint I’m up for it.
RITIKA: WHAT DO YOU CONSIDER WORKOUT HEAVEN?
Ava: A great swell! A perfect day for surfing is my workout heaven. When those days come around don’t expect to see me, I’ll stay out there all day.
RITIKA: DOES IT DRIVE YOU CRAZY WHEN YOU DON’T GET TO EXERCISE?
Ava: Definitely! It’s something I have to do often, or I get stir-crazy. The people around me notice as well because I’ll get totally moody. Being active has a noticeable effect on my overall mood.
RITIKA: ONE FITNESS AND LIFESTYLE ADVICE YOU WOULD LIKE TO GIVE TO OUR READERS
Ava: My one fitness and lifestyle advice would be to find the joy in it. Not everyone is going to like going to the gym or dieting all the time. Find something that is fun to you and challenges you. There is an unlimited amount of fitness activities so try them all and you might just find a new rewarding hobby! Everybody is different so when it comes to nutrition learn to listen to your body and it will tell you what it needs.
