Work Out Like a Supermodel

Who wouldn’t want the body of a super model -- even when winter clothes have you covered up? We may not all be naturally tall and curvy like Naomi Campbell, but that doesn't mean we can’t borrow her fitness secrets. After all, even super models have to work at staying fabulous.

Naomi Campbell’s Diet Secrets

Naomi Campbell, now 40 years old, recently shared her diet and fitness secrets in an interview with Oprah. Campbell says she eats a mostly-vegetarian diet, and also uses the Master Cleanse Fast when she needs to detoxify her body. The Master Cleanse, or Lemonade Diet, has been popular with celebrities since it was invented almost 50 years ago. Beyonce also used it to slim down for her role in the movie Dreamgirls. The diet consists of drinking nothing but lemonade made with filtered water, fresh lemon juice, pure maple syrup and a small amount of cayenne pepper. Campbell says she does it several times a year.

Naomi Campbell’s Workout Secrets

Equally important for maintaining her lush curves and toned physique is Naomi’s fitness regime, which includes both Pilates and Gyrotronics. Pilates has long been favorite of models, actresses and dancers, because it produces long sculpted muscles.

While very different, Pilates and Gyrotronics both stress the mind-body connection and using your breath to coordinate the movement. They also both work to build “core” strength. The core is made up of the muscles in your abdomen, hips, diaphragm and buttocks that support the spine.

Pilates

Many variations of Pilates have developed since Joseph Pilates invented it in the 1920s. Pilates revitalizes the entire body by increasing strength, stamina, coordination and range of motion. Many people even appear a little taller, due their improved posture.

When people think of Pilates they think of machines such as the Reformer, Chair and Tower, which Joseph Pilates invented. They are used in the studio to help create resistance. The original Pilates method, however, was mat work called “Contrology.” A mat class is a series of specific exercises. 

Anyone can practice Pilates. “In 10 sessions you'll feel a difference,” said Joseph Pilates, “in 20 you'll see a difference, and in 30 you'll have a whole new body."  

Gyrotonics

Gyrotronics is practiced on machines that look like a modern torture rack. There is also has a mat version called Gyrokinesis.

“You need to understand the philosophy of Gyrotronics and how the body moves to get the benefits,” says Moscow Gyrotonics instructor Katya Kolossova. “When you understand what your body needs, you become very flexible. Women like Gyrotronics because it works the deep layers of muscles. You become stronger, but not shaped like a ‘muscle man’”. 

Gyrotonics is even said to enable women to wear high heels again with no problems. For dancers, Gyrotonics can help with their ease of movement and gracefulness.

Both Pilates and Gyrotronics are often taught privately. It can be costly, but mat classes are much more affordable. You can also purchase excellent DVDs to use at home.