Fitness author Gemma Atkinson chats exclusively to us about self-care, making time for exercise and life as a new mum

<p>Radio presenter, fitness author and actor Gemma Atkinson, 34, lives in Manchester with <em>Strictly </em>pro dancer Gorka Marquez and their six-month-old daughter, Mia. We caught up with her to chat all things wellness and motherhood... </p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="gemma_atkinson___square" class="ci-image ci-square" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/gemma_atkinson___square_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>What's the best thing about being a new mum?</h2><p>You look at everything through a new pair of eyes. In the mornings, we stand at the window and look at the birds together and I feel like a child again.</p><h2>And the most challenging? </h2><p>The constant worry about whether you're doing things 'right'. One parent's way of doing things will be different to another but the mum guilt is constant. </p><h2>How did you prepare for pregnancy? </h2><p>I did a lot of yoga and meditation and people say that might be why Mia is so chilled out! I have been to yoga retreats in the past and our house is full of Buddhas and candles, so I definitely like the 'Zen' vibe. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="gemma_atkinson_2__square" class="ci-image ci-square" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/gemma_atkinson_2__square_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>What is your weekly fitness regime like? </h2><p>On Tuesdays and Fridays, my mum sits with Mia and I train with my PT for 45 minutes. On the other days I'll use my bike or do a HIIT (high-intensity interval training) session at home. </p><h2>How has your attitude to health and fitness changed over the years?</h2><p>I've always been really interested in what the human body is capable of. It's never been about wanting to be a certain size or fit into a pair. I lost my dad when I was 17. He was so healthy, yet still had a heart attack, so I've always wanted to take care of myself. Even more so now I'm a mum. </p><h2>what does gorka like to cook?</h2><p>He makes an amazing paella. I don't eat meat or fish, so he does one for my mum with prawns and octopus and one with vegetables just for me. </p><p style="text-align: center;"><img alt="gemma_atkinson_3__square" class="ci-image ci-square" src="https://ui3.assets-asda.com/dm/gemma_atkinson_3__square_GL?scl=1"></p><h2>Your food weakness?</h2><p>Well, I'm from up North so I love a chippy tea - chips and gravy with a big piece of white bread and Lurpak. Perfection. If I could have that every night, I would. </p><p> </p><h2>GEmma's 5 ways to stay mentally strong </h2><p>1. Make time for exercise</p><p>For me, exercise is like is like medicine or therapy; stick your headphones on and do your thing. </p><p>2. Get outdoors </p><p>There's nothing better than walking. I love getting outdoors with the pram and my dogs. </p><p>3. Get off social media</p><p>On the days I don't check my phone I'll think, <em>that's </em>why I'm in a good mood! Avoiding things on social media makes a big difference. </p><p>4. See good people</p><p>Surrounding myself with the people who have my best interest at heart is key for me.</p><p>5. Have 10 minutes alone</p><p>A salt scrub in the bath on my own for just a few minutes is heaven. </p><p><strong>Hear Gemma on Hits Radio, weekdays at 4pm. </strong></p>

Gemma Atkinson shares her top five wellness tips

By Asda Good Living,30th January 2020

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