Former international gymnast and BBC presenter; Gabby Logan talks staying healthy on the go and keeping her mental health in check.
What does your daily routine look like?
On a typical day, my alarm goes off at 6:30am. I usually drop my kids, Reuben and Lois, off at school and then go for a workout. In my job, no two days are ever the same. One day I might be catching a plane for a championship abroad and the next day I might be doing a photo shoot in the UK. I love having a busy schedule as it keeps me on my toes, but I have to be really organised – especially now my children are getting older, as they are also busy with friends and sporting commitments, such as cross-country or tennis. In the evenings, we eat together as a family. I cook, while the kids do their homework and [husband] Kenny and I catch up on our days. By 10pm, the kids will be in bed and I aim to be in bed by 10.30pm.
What’s your go-to exercise move?
Exercise is a huge part of my life and I’m active most days. I have a trainer who I do strength and endurance training with, such as squats, sledges and curls, which I love. In-between, I like going to yoga classes or for runs, or you’ll find me walking the dogs and playing tennis with the kids. Usually, it will be something cardio-based!
What do you eat in a day?
I start my day with breakfast, which is usually something like avocado, salmon and spinach, or porridge with peanut butter and banana. That usually keeps me going until lunchtime. If I’m at home during the day, I enjoy whipping up a quick omelette or salad. If I’m on the go, then I’ll go to my favourite haunts, like Pret or Leon, as they have lots of quick and healthy options.
I always make sure to pop a TePe EasyPick in my handbag too. They’re great for using after a meal to keep your smile healthy and teeth spinach-free! If I’m feeling peckish between meals, I try to snack on something healthy, such as fruit or a handful of almonds to keep me going until dinner time. In the evening, I enjoy cooking for my family. Evening meals are often something with lots of locally grown vegetables and lean meat or fish.
What’s the one mental wellbeing tip you swear by?
I usually find sleep and exercise are the answers to creating the best mental health for me.
Who is your role model and why?
I was obsessed with the writing of Maya Angelou when I was younger, and I adore Oprah Winfrey. Now I’m inspired by so many incredible women! It might be somebody I meet for a charity event, who has had to overcome terrible hardship in their lives, writers, sportswomen, or the women in my own family.
How do you unwind?
It’s probably no surprise that training is something I hugely value in terms of taking time to relax and unwind. Aside from fitness, I try to book in some ‘me time’ once a month. For example, taking time to relax with a facial or a massage. I also enjoy taking holidays now more than I have ever done, particularly with my husband and the kids. Having such a busy work schedule really helps you to appreciate and make the most of every second of your free time.
Do you believe in cheat days?
I’ve learnt that it’s important to be strict with yourself when it comes to eating what makes you feel good. At the same time, if I fancy having a treat, like a delicious dessert when I’m out for dinner, then I will. I believe that you shouldn’t completely restrict yourself from having sweet treats, as long as you have a balanced healthy diet.
What does a weekend look like for you?
I love nothing more than a weekend at home with the family. A typical Saturday might start with yoga in the morning, while the kids go horse riding. If I don’t have any work commitments, we might have lunch together as a family before heading out to the shops or to the cinema. Nowadays, I have a bit more time for myself as the kids are so busy with activities and with their friends. I often find myself being their taxi driver instead!
On Sundays, it’s more activities for the kids. With Lois going to gymnastics and Reuben to rugby, so we will be up early. I often prepare a healthy lunch and invite our friends over to spend the afternoon together, which is always a highlight! Typically, Sunday nights can be quite busy. Sorting out PE kits and homework, not to mention organising the family’s schedule for the week ahead. As soon as that’s done, I can finally sit down and relax!
What’s your secret to maintaining overall good health?
Good health involves everything, not just healthy eating and exercise. We know that lots of diseases and illnesses can start in the mouth, so looking after my teeth and gums is really important to me. Particularly in my job as I want to feel confident in my smile. I’m a big fan of visiting the hygienist and pop in for a check-up at least once every six months. My hygienist recommended that, to help keep my teeth healthy, I should use the pink and orange interdental brushes from TePe. She explained that, although I’m good at brushing my teeth (I’m fairly religious about it), not all of my teeth are reached by brushing alone. In fact, many people don’t realise that using a toothbrush alone cleans just 60 per cent of the tooth’s surface because dental plaque builds up between your teeth where a toothbrush doesn’t reach.
Gabby Logan is working with oral health company TePe to help promote healthy smiles and spread the word about the simple steps people can take to keep their teeth, gums and smile healthy in the long term. Visit tepe.com/uk/ for more information.
