Getting to know Leah Simmons

We chat to yogi star Leah Simmons about her her fit life and how she fuels her body.

Leah Simmons prides herself on being the girl-next-door – who just happens to twist her body into amazing yogi shapes. A qualified Pilates and fitness instructor who hates to cook, she fuels her body with organic and wholesome food, and powers her Instagram with poses we can use for good health.

Day on a plate
Meal 1: 500 ml water with 2 g chlorella.
Meal 2: A long black coffee, two free-range eggs (boiled or scrambled) with one piece of organic rice loaf and one tbsp organic sauerkraut or kimchi.
Meal 3: Post-workout shake containing ½ frozen banana, handful of fresh or frozen berries, one large dollop of coconut yogurt, ½ cup coconut water, one tbsp pea and brown rice protein powder, one tsp superfood powder, and a pinch of Himalayan pink salt.
Meal 4: Big salad with 100 g tuna or grilled chicken and a homemade dressing containing extra-virgin olive oil and organic/raw/unpasteurised apple cider vinegar.
Meal 5: Green vegies with 150 g of a lean protein and ½ cup brown rice.

Simmons says
I am definitely not a foodie. Frankly, I just don't have time to create mouth-watering masterpieces of 'infused-this' and 'slow-cooked-that'. That doesn't mean to say though that I don't think about what I eat and appreciate food. I limit my alcohol intake and I eat a very healthy, balanced, organic diet that complements my training regime.
I would say that my overall diet is high protein, with a balance of good fats and carbohydrates. I always have a protein shake after training, unless I am trying to lean out for a photo shoot. If that's the case, I will avoid all sugar including fruit and limit my liquid intake to just water.

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Health and fitness with Lauren Simpson

 

Lauren Simpson is all about going hard or going home, with heavy weights her forte. We chat to her about her fit life and food. 

An online fitness coach, bikini competitor and powerlifter, she has transformed her life from skinny, unhappy and unhealthy to strong, confident and full of life – and now the Sydneysider is on a mission to inspire others.

Day on a plate

Meal 1: Beef rump steak, walnuts, spinach and a side of blueberries.

Meal 2: Turkey breast, macadamias, mushrooms and mixed green vegies.

Meal 3: Barramundi, avocado and mixed green vegies.

Meal 4: Pre-workout meal of chicken breast and white rice.

Meal 5: Post-workout meal of a protein shake with fruit.

Meal 6: Turkey breast and sweet potato.

Simpson says

The body has a greater need for certain nutrients at specific times. Overall, my macros for an entire day of eating are 30 per cent protein, 30 per cent fat and 40 per cent carbs. I always eat my higher carb meals around my workout.

My pre-workout meal consists of a lean protein and a complex carb, eaten 60 to 90 minutes before I hit the gym. I often opt for white rice, as it's easy on the digestive system and is fast acting. I train with quite heavy weights, so having my energy stores full prior to training ensures I maximise my performance.

Immediately after I exercise, I will have a protein shake. Protein consumed within 30 minutes of my workout kick-starts my muscles' recovery process; protein replenishes my muscle glycogen, reduces muscle soreness and fatigue, and promotes muscle repair and growth. I find whey protein isolate is best for fast absorption.

The meal after my post-workout shake is also higher in carbs, with a lean protein. I usually have brown rice in this meal due to its higher fibre content, which leaves me feeling fuller for longer.

Follow Lauren Simpson's journey on Instagram.

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