The last time popular Nollywood star, Kate Henshaw showed up on this space, she said, in response to a question on why she has kept a slim frame for a long time, that there was no secret to it than a determination to stay fit and healthy.
“It is all exercises. I love to gym. It keeps you fit and healthy. Also I watch what I eat. I ensure that I eat well and eat only what my body can take”, she said last September, a few days to the formal launch of a coffee table picture book she had used to mark her eventful sojourn on screen.
The award winning actress, brand ambassador and show host had promised then she was going to release a fitness DVD that would help women and her fans who want to look ‘as sweet sixteen’, that is, as fit and trim as she looks. Last week, the trained Microbiologist and one of the busiest and highest paid screen personalities who has become a role model to a couple of new entrants, called to say that the DVD was ready and that she was already preparing for a second print because the initial prints “have sold out”.
She speaks about her new passion and declares that even though she is passionate about fitness and wellness, acting for her is a life long relationship. Excerpts:
Why a DVD on fitness and not a movie for your fans to enjoy and see Kate in action?
My answer to your question is why not? Over the past few years, a lot of women and young ladies have approached me on how I have been able to maintain the same stature over the years, even though I have had my fat moments and I felt I needed to show them what worked for me. I mean, I have heard people even say it to my face that I never get old. Someone once called me every year young. The secret is what I have in the DVD I just released and hopefully, it will work for them too if they abide by it.
Did you develop this passion, I mean for fitness and wellness, now or it has been there?
It has always been there. I had always been active right from secondary school, taking part in all extra curricular activities and sporting events but in the past five years or so, I took my fitness to another level as I found out the immense benefits that follow exercising regularly. I cannot remember when last I was hospitalized and my energy level has improved as well. So keeping fit does it for me. Some people say I am even addicted to it and yes, I will agree that I am an addict and the gains of being fit are innumerable. It gives me a youthful feeling and my body feels good in my clothes while I also maintain healthy eating habits.
Is it not expensive to keep fit, especially your type that involves dieting?
Well, keeping fit has nothing to do with being wealthy and I do not totally believe in dieting. Dieting means you deprive your body of some vey essential nutrients found in food and that can be detrimental to one’s health. I eat everything in moderation and I like the way I look.
Doesn’t it affect your having to get jobs that require people on the plus side?
On the contrary, it does not affect my job in anyway. My brands have benefitted from my look and I still have flesh in vital areas as you put it (loud laughter). But again, people do point out that I should remember where I come from, which is Cross River State and that I should remember that I am an African woman, but I feel that should not translate to me being unhealthy.
I have also received numerous compliments that I do not look my age and for me that is a plus, seeing that I do not have to go through any surgical procedures to look the way I do. And I tell you that there are no disadvantages whatsoever. Health is wealth and a fit person is an active person.
What if Mr. Right wants you to add up?
Well that is If, and that is a huge if ... but then, the man in question who wants me to add up would have to accept me just the way I am or hit the road. Take me as I am or leave me as I am. Simple!
So the DVDs are right now on sale?
Yes, the katesfitforlife DVDs are available in major stores on the Island, in Surulere and Port Harcourt. We are still working on distribution so it can’t get to all the nooks and crannies. It is also available online at girlyessentials.com, Konga.com and will be available on Buyam.com also. With the advent of the online stores, distribution is a lot better as the reach is wider. But beyond the DVD and also because you have mentioned it now, and I like the idea of holding classes, some women have asked me to do some classes for them.
The challenge here being my schedule but I do know that most people are afraid of the gym. They get overwhelmed with the equipment they see in the gym and do not know where and how to start. Eating right is also important. That is why my DVD comes with a free six-week meal planner and Nigerian meals are available to pick and choose from on the website www.katesfitforlife.com
So what is on your radar outside the fitness DVD?
Well, as you know, the Nigeria’s Got Talent Reality Show is still on. So I am hundred percent committed to that talent-spotting programme. Aside from NGT, I have a few movie projects to do and also push the sales of my DVD as I intend to do another one. This one is for beginners. So there is a whole lot that I want to do and that is me.
I always like to challenge myself and not find myself in a box. I want to be able to act, to write, to present shows on stage, radio and television, to work as a brand ambassador, sing if I have the time and generally do charity work. It is just about challenging myself and making an impression that will lead to greater opportunities. So, it is beyond fame and financial gains for me.
From: The Guardian
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