Interview with Penny Lancaster Stewart

4 months ago 07th Jul 11:32

Is there anywhere you wouldn’t like to visit?

I don’t think there’s anywhere I would say, “Oh no, I don’t want to go there” about, because it’s important to always be broadening your horizons. It would be ignorant to say that there’s somewhere out there which has absolutely nothing to offer. Even if it’s somewhere that you would choose to never go back to, how can you have an opinion on somewhere if you’ve never been?

How do you maintain your bikini body?

I think that genetics play a big part. I used to be mad on my fitness – as a child I swam for my county and did aerobics, and I think that your muscles have a memory. As long as you keep an active routine, you can maintain a healthy, fit shape.

Do you still dance since leaving Strictly Come Dancing?

Well I haven’t managed to find a partner as good as Ian since! I do like dancing in general, but I haven’t done any more ballroom since then.

What pressures were you under to be thin when you were a model?

When I first began modeling I was asked to lose weight, but I am 6’1” with quite broad shoulders from swimming, so losing too much weight is unhealthy and I would end up fainting. Plus, I just don’t like that look, I think it’s awful! I much prefer a healthy, fit image, and I was lucky enough to find such a niche in my modeling career, which also proved lucrative for me. There is definitely too much pressure on women today to be a certain size, and especially for mothers to get back to their pre-baby shape, which I think is ridiculous and totally irresponsible, especially when Mothers are trying to breast-feed. Putting the baby’s needs first is more important, which is what I did.

What do you think of modeling agencies today when they encourage people to lose weight?

I think there should be a higher governing body which sets rules and guidelines for modeling, and if a young girl comes along who isn’t the typical shape for a model, then the best advice might be to go and find another career rather than turn themselves into something they’re not.

Finally, what are your views on the size zero debate?

It’s just hideous really. I’m a size 12, and the most important thing is to take pride in yourself, keep fit and healthy, and be conscious of what you’re putting into your body. Try to avoid processed food and anything white - always go for the wholegrain - and drink plenty of vegetable juice and exercise regularly. Just keep a sensible balance, because to spend your life worrying about what people think about you is a very negative way to live. At the end of the day, who dictates that skinny is the way to be? It should be more about being healthy, and not about looking skinny.

For more of her top tips, log onto www.nectar.com/swipeforsun

FemaleFirst - Ruth Harrison

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