The Foundation: Yoga for Body and Mind
Yoga has been a cornerstone of Jacqueline's fitness journey for over 17 years. For her, it's more than just a workout; it's a practice that enhances flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. She has been seen performing everything from basic flows to advanced
inversions like Pincha Mayurasana (forearm stand) and Urdhva Dhanurasana (wheel pose). Poses like Trikonasana (triangle pose) and Anjaneyasana (low lunge) are also staples, helping with balance, stability, and opening up the hips. She believes it's the perfect way to start the day, helping to manage anxiety and stay present. Her dedication shows how consistency in yoga can build both physical strength and inner calm.
Core Strength and Control with Pilates
Long before it became a mainstream trend, Pilates was a key part of Jacqueline's regimen. This low-impact workout is renowned for its focus on building a strong core, improving posture, and increasing flexibility through controlled movements. Often training with celebrity instructor Yasmin Karachiwala, she makes even the most challenging reformer exercises look effortless. She has been known to incorporate Pilates into her weekly schedule, typically on a Thursday, to ensure her core remains engaged and her body aligned. This focus on precision and control complements her more high-energy workouts perfectly.
Cardio Through Dance and Sports
Jacqueline firmly believes that fitness should be fun, which is why she frequently turns to dance for her cardio. Whether it's a structured class or just letting loose, dance is a Saturday staple in her weekly routine. It’s a full-body workout that improves stamina and coordination. Beyond dance, she has recently added Padel to her regimen, a fast-paced racket sport that enhances agility and reflexes. On other days, she might opt for a simple morning run with friends to get her heart rate up. This varied approach ensures her cardio never feels monotonous.
Building Strength with Weight Training
While she prefers workouts outside a traditional gym, Jacqueline understands the importance of strength training. She incorporates weight training about three times a week, dedicating separate days to her upper body, back, and lower body. She has shared that as she gets older, she's making a more conscious effort to lift weights, noting their importance for maintaining muscle mass and bone health. This doesn't always require a gym; many exercises can be performed with free weights at home. This balanced approach ensures she builds and maintains a firm, athletic physique.
Fueling the Body: Diet and Nutrition
Jacqueline's fitness is supported by a clean and mindful diet. She starts her day by drinking plenty of water, sometimes infused with lemon and mint. Breakfast is her favorite meal, often consisting of egg whites, granola, or pancakes. For lunch and dinner, she keeps it light with lean protein and complex carbs like brown rice, quinoa, and plenty of vegetables. She avoids sugar and prefers to have her last meal of the day by 7 or 8 PM. Her diet is rich in antioxidants from fruits like berries and oranges and includes healthy fats from nuts. This disciplined eating plan provides the sustained energy she needs for her active lifestyle.
