How to Get Into Runway Shape, According to Cindy Crawford’s Trainer

While New York Fashion Week has brought the return of some of fashion’s most iconic faces on the runway, the supermodel Cindy Crawford has proven time and time again that she is always runway ready (she walked Versace’s runway just last season, in fact, along with her 90’s contemporaries Carla Bruni, Helena Christensen, Naomi Campbell, and Claudia Schiffer). However, the 51-year-old’s still-toned physique doesn’t just come down to blessed genetics, no matter how much her teenage model daughter Kaia Gerber might offer evidence to the contrary. It’s thanks to Crawford’s trainer Sarah Hagaman that maintaining the balance between health and fitness has been sustainable over the long haul. From her own workout essentials to her nutritional routine, Hagaman breaks down how to take care of yourself the way her clients like Crawford have for so many years.

What are your best tips on maintaining a consistent workout schedule? Set realistic goals. There is nothing more defeating than setting goals you can’t achieve. Instead of saying I’m going to work out every day, set three or four days to work out. This allows you to work around obligations with work, kids, and regular life. Also, not all workouts need to be in the gym. Meet a friend for a hike! For me, I work out just as recommended above. I alternate between strength training, interval cardio training, and circuit training. I get three to four workouts a week for about 45 minutes to an hour.

What do you recommend eating before and after a workout? I tend to work out in the morning, so I eat a balanced breakfast about 30 minutes after waking, of plain Greek yogurt (protein), fresh berries (antioxidants), and raw nuts (healthy fats). After my workout is generally an apple and nut butter. I try to stick to whole foods that are not packaged in wrappers. Carbs are not the enemy, but I do stay away from white flour and refined white sugars. That said, life is meant to be lived, so if you are in Paris eat a croissant for breakfast and don’t skip the gelato in Italy!

How do you help your clients train for a big event? I am always eager to help my clients reach their various goals. To train for a big event, lead time is crucial: four weeks of consistent three-to-four-days-a-week workouts, plus clean nutrition should yield results for most. I suggest increase in water intake, decrease in alcohol, and replace food rewards with self-care rewards. Instead of dessert, get yourself a massage or a facial!

What are your go-to at home toning workouts? Bands, bands, bands. They are easy to use, versatile and you can use them anywhere! They are cheap, too! Amazing booty burn in the comfort of your own home. One set of medium weight dumbbells needed for larger full body compound movements. Burpees to push up; shoulder thrusters; planks with rows. These movements burn calories and tone the whole body.

What is your mindset when it comes to exercise? While a quick fix (juice cleanses, fasting, etc) may work quickly, they rarely work for the long haul. Usually what the body expels is extra water, not actually extra weight. Instead of crash dieting before an event, it’s more important to take the time to do the things that help you not only look your best but feel your best. A workout you love, a hike with a friend, a class at the gym, a soak in the tub, a manicure and pedicure. Just take the time to take care of you and you will be ready for anything!