The NFL cheerleaders perform in front of millions of people, with incredible routines and outfits revealing their enviably toned figures. HELLO! Fashion caught up with Atlanta Falcons' cheerleaders Jasmine and Kat to find out how they stay in shape… Scroll below for their diet and fitness secrets
Set realistic goals and don't over exert yourself – develop a workout that works for you, because what works for your friends may not fit your personal goals.
Kat:I use my workout as an escape from everyday life – forget about your to-do list and just be in the moment. Stay hydrated, and focus on your goals. Use them as constant motivation to do your best.
What's a typical training session like for your routines? Jasmine:Stretching, of course, and then working on a specific area I've designated for that day. One day might be on my core, another on my lower body, and then on my upper body.
Kat:All of our dance routines are extremely physical so I have to stay on top of my game. An average workout will consist of some jogging, stretching, and core strengthening.
Anything that involves dancing! I enjoy finding exercises that will fit whatever target area I would like to work on. Crazy enough, I love doing squats and crunches!
Kat:My favourite activity is running – I'm also a Track and Field athlete so I do a lot of sprint work mixed with core strengthening and some lifting.
How many times a week do you workout? Jasmine:At least 4 days a week, more if my schedule allows. I try to do something each day, even if it's something small. My schedule doesn't change before a performance, I keep it consistent – I like to look at my exercising as a platform to build stamina for my performances.
Kat:I typically workout 5 days a week with Thursdays and Sundays being my days off, unless we have a game.
I watch what I eat at all times, I don't necessarily focus my eating around a performance. This way I've developed a lasting lifestyle, so I don't have to be too conscious of my meal choices.
Kat:I absolutely watch what I eat before a big performance. Eating habits affect how you look, but more importantly how you feel and how you perform. It is definitely a balancing act to make sure you are getting enough of the right nutrients to sustain your energy.
I absolutely love fruits and vegetables – as a kid I never had trouble eating leafy foods. I also try and drink the recommended ounces of water daily. I make it a game with my co-workers, it's somewhat of a buddy system to ensure we are all on track.
Kat:I won't lie, my eating habits are not always what they should be. When they're at their best, I try and make sure to eat breakfast and try to eat multiple smaller meals throughout the day, incorporating lots of protein and vegetables. I stay away from fast food. I've never tried a juice cleanse, eating clean is the way to go for me.
What's the best fitness advice you've ever received?Jasmine:Stretch, stretch, and stretch some more! Also, be happy. It's easier to maintain your fitness if you're doing something you enjoy.
Kat:The best advice I've ever received is not to skip meals. Being 'hangry' is never fun and only causes you to over eat later.
