Here’s What 51 Looks Like: Fitness Instructor Says Zumba & Budget Facial Wash Keeps Her Youthful

Annaleah Lowe lives in North Wales, with her partner Mark. She has two children, Sharna, 30, and Ryan, 27, and a granddaughter, Zariah, one year old. She is a fitness instructor.

ZUMBA ADDICT

I have been a fitness instructor for over 20 years. My favorite class is Zumba. I teach 14 hours a week, plus four hours of practice. This is the main way I stay in shape. It’s an amazing cardiovascular workout but still fun, so you hardly feel like you’re exercising. It’s so accessible too, so particularly good in your 40s because you can take it at your own pace.

Curly hair saver

To keep my curly hair hydrated, I love Curlsmith products (uk.curlsmith.com). Instead of a shampoo, I use the Curl Quenching Conditioner Wash (£ 11), a gentle 2-in-1 conditioner with cleansing properties that doesn’t strip hair of natural oils. I add Wella Shockwaves Curls & Waves Mousse (£ 2.89, boots.com) if I want some extra definition to come out.

REGIME AFTER LOCKING

During the confinement, I could not give my lessons so I put a stone and a half. I felt so insecure. Suddenly, I changed my diet. I have a collagen protein shake (myprotein.com, £ 37.99) for breakfast. I also drink a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a quart of water before lunch to curb cravings. I can tuck into most of my clothes and feel like myself again.

ENERGY SUPPLEMENTS

Every day I take glucosamine sulfate supplements (Holland & Barrett, £ 15.99 for 120 capsules), which relieve muscle and joint pain. A fellow fitness instructor, now in his 60s, recommended them. I am aware of the sustainability of my health so that I can teach as long as possible. They helped my energy levels.

BUDGET FACE CLEANSER

I wash my face up to four times a day – it’s important to cleanse after exercise as the pores open when you sweat and dirt can build up on the skin. I use Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Facial Cleanser (£ 2, boots.com). My skin is completely clean afterwards.

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