Donna Air, 47, has shared her approach to maintaining her physique, attributing her figure not to strict dieting but to a balanced lifestyle that prioritizes enjoyment of food and movement. In an interview with the Daily Mail, Air detailed her eating habits, fitness routine, and wellness practices, emphasizing a shift in focus towards strength and capability as she has gotten older.
Air stated that she has always enjoyed food and eats high-quality, flavorful meals with minimal processed ingredients. She also prioritizes hydration, consuming plenty of water, electrolytes, and coconut water. While acknowledging the role of genetics and a naturally high metabolism, she stresses the importance of listening to her body and balancing food intake, such as opting for more protein if she has consumed carbohydrates.
Her eating patterns can vary, and she is comfortable skipping breakfast if she has eaten late the previous evening, preferring to hydrate with green tea, water, or coffee in the morning. Her dietary choices adapt to her work, with more substantial meals needed for early starts in cold climates, while she might opt for lighter options or take her own meals, like fish, brown rice, and vegetables, when performing on stage.
Despite her figure, Air insists she does not engage in punishing diets. "I love food. I love a Sunday roast. I love puddings. I've never believed in depriving myself of things I enjoy," she said. She expressed a preference for increased physical activity over food restriction, stating, "I exercise a lot, so if I had to choose between restricting food and doing more exercise, I'd much rather move my body more and enjoy my food."
Air's workouts are primarily cardio-based, focusing on how they make her feel rather than solely on appearance. Her preferred activities include running, cycling, swimming, hot yoga, and spin classes. She noted that while she knows she should incorporate more strength work, she prefers classes to traditional gym settings.
A significant wellness practice for Air is the use of saunas and cold plunging, a routine she has followed for about 20 years. She described it as an efficient way to feel revitalized.
As she has gotten older, especially following the death of her father earlier this year, Air's perspective on her body has evolved. She feels more grateful for her physical health and capabilities, focusing on feeling strong and capable. This has led her to pay more attention to preserving muscle and bone health, incorporating supplements like Vitamin D, essential fatty acids, and collagen, and ensuring adequate protein intake.
Beyond diet and exercise, Air believes that overall youthfulness involves living fully, pursuing passions, and nurturing relationships. She highlighted the importance of her social circle in contributing to happiness and health. Air also expressed an open-minded approach to cosmetic treatments, stating she has not had surgery but is not opposed to it for herself or others.
Reflecting on the past year, Air described it as a period of significant change and new beginnings, embracing life with increased knowledge and experience. She also voiced concern about the intense scrutiny young women face regarding their appearance on social media, advocating for kindness and a more supportive environment.