Davina McCall shares her keep fit secrets

She's an in-demand TV presenter and mum-of-three who (annoyingly) always manages to get her fantastic figure back after each birth. How? Apparently the secret's in working out while you pregant and afterwards. Davina McCall shares her tips with M&B online.

M&B: How do you find the energy and the motivation to work out  while your pregnant?
Davina: My motivation is to stop me feeling so guilty about all the extra food I seem to be consuming and also, importantly, to help me with the birth. It’s exhausting giving birth and you need to be as strong as possible.

M&B: How did you stop yourself from eating junk food while you were pregnant?
Davina: I try to stay away from all junk food. My failings are dairy and puddings. I still tried to eat three meals a day, but I was eating more than usual.

M&B: What cravings did you have during your three pregnancies?
Davina: Sugar, coca cola, chewing on ice and gnawing sponges… Don’t ask! It must have been something to do with my gums.

M&B: How do you think your children have benefited from having a fit and healthy mum?
Davina: Well, there’s no doubt that having three littlies is very tiring and being fit just makes it that bit easier. One really noticeable thing is that I never used to run up the stairs before I started training. I’ve just started again since giving birth and it just makes my feel more spritely… and if I’m feeling really brave I go up two at a time!!

M&B: You're such a believer in keeping fit while you're pregnant that you've released a new DVD workout, My pre and post baby workouts, on the subject.
Davina: Yes, because when I’ve been pregnant I’ve looked around for a fun, mellow workout to do. But there weren’t any so I thought I’d better make one!!

M&B: You're such a believer in keeping fit while you're pregnant that you've released a DVD workout, My pre and post baby workouts, on the subject.
Davina: This DVD won’t get you fit but it will keep you ticking over while you are pregnant, because when I’m pregnant all I want to do is loaf about eating chocolate but it’s really important for you and your baby to do SOMETHING. It’ll also work wonders for you post birth with getting the old jelly belly under control.

M&B: By following these routines during your third pregnancy, what noticeable difference do you see and feel compared to the other two pregnancies?
Davina: I've been able to regain my muscle tone much quicker. My tummy recovered and improved heaps quicker.

M&B: Why do you recommend leaving it six weeks after giving birth before starting the post-natal work out routines?
Davina: Giving birth is so tough on our bodies that we just need to rest and let our bodies settle. Also chances are you’ll be very tired and it’s not good to work out if you are exhausted.