Center Stage Magazine August-September | Page 66

fitness Breakthroughs “Be the best that you can be. Don’t compare yourself to others as we are not all meant to be the same. Embrace the fact we are all different and support each other in our differences.” Modeling is not an easy thing to do where people thought you just wear fancy clothes and pose to camera. No, it does not work that way at all. It is not enough because you have to be enchanting. A model should know when to capture the interest of the audience just like casting a spell over someone or something. Aside from that, you must exude elegance in every work you do. Elegance is not just being chic or having that class but a refined quality of gracefulness and good taste. Here at Center Stage, we feature the enchanting elegance of Samantha Tomlin where she conveys an aura of elegance and gentility for fitness, fashion, theatre, entertainment and modeling photography. Modeling and acting is something she fell into later in life. After a career in fashion on the textile side, Samantha was always being asked to go in front of the camera but felt happier behind the scenes. In the space of a few years she had a wide range of modeling work from fashion editorial, catwalk, beauty, fitness and acting in commercials, short films and starting to break into movies. In those span of year/s, who was your inspiration in modeling/fitness business? “I am inspired by strong women that empower and support one another. From my field of work I would say Elle McPhearson and Charlize Theron. They work hard and give back”, Samantha shares. We ask her when she was growing up, what was her dream before. “When I was growing up I was quiet and shy. I always knew I wanted to go into fashion but I thought maybe a buyer or a stylist. I wanted to use my love of fashion and turn it into a career”, she said openly. Of course, our first step in career has its own back story. What was your experience when you got into the fashion and modeling business? “My first big fashion show was a charity appearance of Models of Diversity. I was older, more confident and surrounded by models of all ages, colors, and sizes and had a very positive experience”. Let us admit that when your world is revolving around in modeling, fitness or fashion, we cannot deny that schedule can be very hectic. So, how does Samantha manage her busy schedule and keep in track to all the commitments? “Time management is a must in this business. I can’t stand being late! I have my smart phone with my diary and a hard copy of my diary at home too. I have two kids so it’s a juggling act but I thrive on the challenge and enjoy every moment,” Samantha shared it professionally and happily. Busy schedule, coping with commitments, photo shoots and taping are just examples of daily routine of an individual in this business. We are curious to know how Samantha really maintains her physical physique. “I’m at a size that my body should be. I maintain it with Pilates and I walk where ever possible! Take the stairs, never the lift”. How many times do you work out in a week? Do you have any favorite workout? “As my work schedule changes every week I can’t have a set time to go to the gym so I have to be flexible with workouts. I will swim or go for a bike ride and Pilates each week. I use a personal trainer to motivate and mix up the regimes when I need to”, says the supermodel. Is there any workout routine you find it very challenging? “I’m not a runner! As long as my legs are my knees don’t like anything more than a power walk,” she shares. What types of food do you eat? Do you have any meal plans or your own customized meal plans at all? Can you share us? “I was a vegetarian for six “Mix it up so you don’t get bored! Train within your limits but be aware also when you can push a little harder. Above all, enjoy and make it part of your lifestyle.” years but I have started to eat fish and white meat over the last year as I was getting tired and felt I needed the protein. I think everything is fine in moderation. You can eat small meals at often times.” At some point in time, we realize that being fit and healthy is must these days because we live in a very fast-paced life. We asked Samantha if there’s anyone who influenced her about healthy lifestyle. “Having children made me realize I need to stay fit and healthy for as long as I can as there is no time to sit around! I see my friends and piers and they inspire me every day,” she revealed. We have our own guilty pleasures, especially when it comes to food or beverage. Samantha shared and revealed to us the food and drink she cannot resist. “I can’t resist a fizzy drink! Sugar free but still not good for you! Chocolate too but again in moderation is fine.” Name your fitspiration icons or models you look up to. “Cameron Diaz, Charlize Theron and Jennifer Lawrence,” she enumerates. Tell us five characteristics that fans don’t know about you. “I’m positive, kind, strong of mind, always willing to listen and a good friend.” Do you have any pet peeves when working out or going to the gym? “Going to the gym is for some more of a social occasion to parade around! I’m happier no makeup sweaty and getting results so that I why I choose outdoor activities.” What are your final messages to your fans that con stantly follow you or at least look up to you? “Be the best that you can be. Don’t compare yourself to others as we are not all meant to be the same. Embrace the fact we are all different and support each other in our differences.” Wave your magic wand, where do you see yourself in ten years in time? “I would like to think I would have progressed further in my career and achieved more goals surrounded by the people I love,” Samantha said it optimistically. What are your final fitness reminders? “Mix it up so you don’t get bored! Train within your limits but be aware also when you can push a little harder. Above all, enjoy and make it part of your lifestyle. I never weigh myself I go by how I feel”.