Carrying a baby is such hard work, I've found that the stronger I am, the better I feel.
I've been so fortunate to have had such a healthy, easy pregnancy and have been incredibly active the entire way through. My favorite part is feeling the baby move - but the entire process is such a miracle.
It's not about having a perfectly sculpted figure; it's about feeling healthy, fit, and confident.
The muscles that are used in Ballet Beautiful are similar to those used in classic ballet. They're also muscles that don't get used very often, which is why it burns so much.
Ballet opens up the chest and the arms and elongates the body, so you carry yourself straighter. That's so important for a model. But also every woman.
I think most people don't need as much cardio as they think they do.
I find that the thing that makes every body look the best is great toning, and really, really targeting the muscles, and low cardio, where you're sculpting and getting your heart rate up but not beating yourself up.
My body needs a lot of protein because I exercise so much. I eat dairy, meat, and gluten, but I stay away from white flour, sugar, and processed foods.
When you dance, you engage your abs in every step.
Rather than thinking about what not to eat, I like to focus on what I can eat to look and feel my best.
I find that healthy eating makes me feel happier, stronger, and more confident.
I'm very sensitive to salt. I always see and feel a big difference in my body when I eat it, so I try to consume salt in moderation.
A lot of people think the body is just about genetics, but the right approach can change its shape.
When you're wearing pointe shoes, honestly, they hurt - a lot - every day.
For a ballerina, the worst thing imaginable is big thighs.
It definitely wasn't cool in junior high, when everyone else is trying out for cheerleading, to have a life consumed by ballet.
Ballet is an incredible art, but it can be a bit elitist, which is a really big turn off to me.
By continuing to work out and dance while pregnant, I feel a double reward from maintaining my normal routine but all the while knowing that baby is sharing in my day.
Ballet Beautiful has made my pregnancy a joy. I've avoided back pain and swelling by keeping my core strong and body moving.
Working out should be empowering! It should make you look and feel strong, elegant, healthy - the best possible version of you.
