Cindy Crawford, the iconic supermodel, has maintained her stunning physique for decades, not through extreme measures, but through a consistent and surprisingly approachable workout routine. At 58, Crawford emphasizes low-impact exercises, proving that you don’t need intense, high-impact workouts to stay in incredible shape. Her secret? A balanced approach that combines Pilates, strength training, cardio, and a healthy lifestyle.
The Core of Crawford’s Fitness: Low-Impact Pilates
Embracing Reformer Pilates
Crawford credits Pilates, particularly reformer Pilates, as a cornerstone of her fitness regimen for the past decade. She enjoys Pilates twice a week, praising its adaptability and low-impact nature. “I’ve only been doing that for the last 10 years… even if my back is hurting, I can do Pilates, because I can modify it. I’ve never gotten hurt doing Pilates,” Crawford shared.
Why Pilates Works
Pilates focuses on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. The reformer machine adds resistance, intensifying the workout while remaining gentle on the joints. This makes it an ideal exercise for all ages and fitness levels, especially those seeking a low-impact option.
The “Old School” Approach: Strength Training and Cardio
Back to Basics
In addition to Pilates, Crawford incorporates “old school” exercises into her routine, working with a trainer twice a week. These exercises include:
- Weight lifting: Using free weights to build upper body strength and tone muscles.
- Lunges: A classic exercise for legs and glutes.
- Push-ups: A compound exercise targeting chest, shoulders, and triceps.
- Running: A cardio staple for heart health and calorie burning.
- StairMaster: A great way to elevate the heart rate and work the lower body.
The Benefits of Combining Strength and Cardio
This combination of strength training and cardio provides a well-rounded workout, building muscle, improving cardiovascular health, and boosting metabolism. Crawford aims for at least 20 minutes of cardio three times a week. She varies her cardio by jumping on a trampoline, using a treadmill or elliptical, or running stairs.
Making Fitness a Lifestyle: Consistency and Balance
The 80/20 Rule
Crawford follows an 80/20 rule when it comes to diet, aiming to eat healthy 80% of the time and allowing for indulgences the other 20%. She avoids processed foods and focuses on whole foods. A typical weekday might include a protein shake for breakfast, salad for lunch, and sushi or turkey meatballs with pasta and vegetables for dinner.
Combining Exercise and Socializing
Crawford emphasizes the importance of making exercise enjoyable and sustainable. She often combines exercise with socializing, such as hiking with friends. “Once a week, I try to go on a hike with a friend so I combine exercise and girlfriend time—it’s the best multitasking,” she says.
The Importance of Consistency
Crawford’s key to success is consistency. She tries to work out three to four times a week, even if it’s just for a short period. “Setting realistic goals and having consistency over time is what you notice over the years,” she says.
Crawford’s Diet and Wellness Secrets
Morning Routine
Crawford starts her day with a wellness-focused morning routine. This often includes a jacuzzi soak to watch the sunrise, followed by breakfast with her family. She drinks Foursigmatic Coffee or a protein shake made with almond milk, banana, spinach, mint, Ladder Vanilla protein, and cacao nibs.
Detoxification and Skincare
Crawford incorporates dry brushing into her routine, a method she has sworn by for decades. She also uses the MB Rose Quartz gua sha tool for its sculpting benefits. Crawford prioritizes skincare and believes in the power of sleep.
The 6-Minute Ab Workout
Crawford once shared a 6-minute ab workout on Instagram. It consists of:
- 10 regular crunches
- 10 full sit-ups
- 10 roll-ups
- 10 jack-knives on your right side
- 10 jack-knives on your left side
This circuit is repeated three times.
Key Takeaways from Cindy Crawford’s Routine:
- Low-impact exercise is effective: Pilates and other low-impact activities can help you stay in shape without stressing your joints.
- Consistency is key: Regular exercise, even in short bursts, is more effective than sporadic intense workouts.
- Balance is essential: A healthy diet that allows for indulgences can be easier to maintain long-term.
- Make it enjoyable: Find activities you enjoy and incorporate them into your routine.
- Listen to your body: Modify exercises as needed to avoid injury.
- It’s a lifestyle, not a resolution: Focus on creating sustainable habits rather than quick fixes.
Cindy Crawford’s fitness routine is a testament to the power of consistency, balance, and low-impact exercise. By prioritizing these principles, anyone can achieve ageless fitness and well-being.
