Gina Rodriguez is on a power trip, and she credits Muay Thai, a form of martial arts and a newfound passion that has changed her shape and doubled her strength. The Jane the Virgin star isn’t all workout, all the time, though—she also believes strongly in being indulgent, describing herself as “an equal opportunity eater.” Here’s how Gina strikes the perfect balance of happy and healthy.
“I’m the strongest I’ve ever been,” says Gina, 33. “Doing Muay Thai taught me so much about my body. Now I view it as an engine that keeps me active and healthy.”
This way of thinking has been a revelation for Gina, who was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease—an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid and causes symptoms such as fatigue and muscle pain—right after she filmed the pilot for Jane. Once she started practicing Muay Thai regularly, however, “I felt very stealthy and quick,” Gina says. “It was an amazing transformation.”
The extra energy she gets from pushing her body is powering up the rest of her life too. In addition to working on Jane, Gina is shooting a movie in Mexico and is the voice of Una in the animated film Ferdinand, which is out in December. Add to that the role of CEO and president of her own production company. “I’m living my dream,” she says. “I want to say to women who are reading this story, try anything you want. You’re strong and durable.”
Here’s how Gina taps into her grit and how you can too.
FIND WHAT DRIVES YOU
“My go-to workout has always been a form of fight training. My father was a boxing referee. He taught my sisters and me how to box at a very young age, which was fantastic for our confidence, athleticism, and discipline. This past year, I learned how to do Muay Thai. I went to Thailand with my boyfriend, Joe, for a month, and we trained with champions. To do Muay Thai, you have to build up your strength and stamina. It’s mind over matter; you’re pushing yourself. What I like best about it is the sense of inner strength it gives me. Knowing I can protect myself is a powerful feeling.”
This story is from the November 2017 edition of Shape Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 2017 edition of Shape Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Break It Down: Breast Health
With so many confusing and alarming reports about breast cancer, it’s tough to figure out what your risk really is. We asked top experts to help explain the latest facts behind the headlines—and discovered some very reassuring news.
5 Best Natural Extracts For Your Hair
Lately the ingredient list on your shampoo reads like your smoothie order. And that’s a good thing. Coconut, aloe, and other natural extracts are packed with exactly what your hair needs. Here, we break down what each can do for you.
Skin And Hair Detox
It’s the season of fresh starts, and your skin, hair, and makeup routines are primed for change. We have your action plan.
Super Nutrients For Sexual Health
These power ingredients ease PMS, boost sex drive, and keep your system strong.
Yes, Diet Affects Your Sexual Health
Going vegetarian can lead to some surprising changes.
8 Tips To Absorb More Nutrients From Your Food
All those greens you’re nomming? You might be missing the benefits if you’re making these mistakes.
What You Need Know About Intermittent Fasting
You’ve probably heard a lot about this dieting and weight-loss technique, but what is it exactly? Is it safe? And does it mean you can’t eat?
Simple Tips To Wake Up Energised
Skip the coffee and quit the snooze. Try these simple tweaks to your daily routine and you’ll be all revved up to go in the morning.
Do We Really Need To Diet?
Is detoxing a necessary health move or just clever marketing? Carmen Chow goes to the experts for the facts.
26 Ways To Lose Inches Faster
Wouldn’t it be nice to have your health taken care of for you? A chef to cook nutritious, gourmet dinners; an assistant to schedule regular massage and doctor’s appointments; a little voice in your head reminding you to skip the chocolate and have the broccoli instead; and a sharp elbow pushing you to get off the comfy couch and head out for a 10 km run? Okay, maybe our health is something we’re better off taking care of ourselves. And lucky for us, there’s more than one way to do it. In fact, we’ve got 26, one for each letter of the alphabet. Try one or try them all, what matters is that you make the move.
