Made In Chelsea star Millie Mackintosh is enjoying the beautiful winter sunshine in Dubai, UAE. The British TV star posted a picture of herself wearing a one-piece swimsuit with matching coverup and big hat, captioning the post, “Delighted to be back in Dubai for a very special event this weekend with @hugotaylorlondon 🌴☀️🇦🇪.” How does she stay so fit? Read on to see 5 ways Mackintosh stays in shape and the photos that prove they work—and to get beach-ready yourself, don’t miss these essential 30 Best-Ever Celebrity Bathing Suit Photos!
Mackintosh works out for both the physical and mental health benefits. “As a mum it’s more important than ever to look after myself and my health, I want to have as much energy as possible to keep with my soon-to-be toddler,” she says. “I don’t have as much time to workout as I used to but I try to do some form of exercise 3-4 times a week, it’s so beneficial for my mind just as much as my body.”
Mackintosh enjoys scrambled eggs with buckwheat toast in the mornings. “Whole eggs are nutritionally rich, supplying almost every nutrient you need,” says registered nutritionist Jo Lewin. “They are useful sources of some of the hard to get nutrients like vitamins D and B12 as well as the mineral iodine. Eggs are regarded as a ‘complete’ source of protein as they contain all nine essential amino acids, which we must obtain from our diet. Furthermore, if you choose brands enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, due to the diet the chickens are fed, you’ll benefit from higher omega-3 fatty acids as well as fat soluble vitamins such as vitamins A and E.”
Mackintosh incorporates weights and resistance bands in her workouts. “I try to do 3 sessions with a PT with light weights and resistance bands to help strengthen and tone, and I like to do one barre or Pilates session a week, which is great for my back pain, alignment and posture,” she says. “Having some ‘me time’ when I can switch off from being a mum, put on some good music and get my heart rate going always gives me a mental and physical boost and I never regret doing it.”
Mackintosh always makes time for meditation before going to bed. “There are different types of meditation to accomplish different aims, so the best meditation for you will be one that fits your goals,” says Deepak Chopra, MD, FACP. “Almost every meditation practice will bring you greater peace and relaxation, so if that is your primary aim, then a simple breath awareness meditation is fine.”
Mackintosh loves the positive health benefits of Pilates. “I really recommend Pilates to everyone but especially new mums, it really helped me during my last pregnancy and is great for rebuilding your core and pelvic strength,” she says. “Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, take it slow and use apps for encouragement. Couch to 5k is great if you want to get into running but don’t know where to start. Most importantly: do something you enjoy, otherwise you will dread it and it will be much harder to keep it up.”