Simone De La Rue has taken the fitness world by storm, one expertly choreographed routine at a time. Paving for the way for women everywhere to partake in – and enjoy (yes, really!) – cardio, her high-impact routines are responsible for whipping some of Hollywood’s most beautiful behinds, into shape. And now us mere mortals can get a slice of the action, too. We caught up with Simone at Third Space, where her aptly named Sweat class will take place monthly.
How did you get into fitness?
I fell into fitness by accident really. I’d been dancing on the West End and Broadway for 18 years when I was approached by an actress who needed to learn how to dance (we have it on good authority that this was Natalie Portman). I was totally gobsmacked at the extent to which the process changed the female form. It was a lightbulb moment for me! And from that point on I made fitness my career.
What is your approach and how does it differ from other methods?
It’s all about dancing. My niche is cardio interval training. In London, especially, there are so many yoga, Pilates and barre classes, and then on the other end of the spectrum, there’s hard-core boot camps – I like to think I bridge the gap. Not only is the choreography great at stimulating the brain, but the movement engages all parts of the body. Women really struggle to get their heart rate up and burn calories, and this is a fun way to do it. Women see huge changes in their bodies, and it becomes instantly addictive.
Do you see a difference between celebrities trying to get into shape, and your regular clients?
The main difference is the end goal. Celebrities are paid to be in shape, to look good in a bikini or on the red carpet, and because of the media, their journey is in the public eye. That said, I train everyone the same regardless.
How do you feel about the recent celebration of ‘strong not skinny’?
I love it! We must celebrate all different shapes and sizes. I am petite, my mum is petite, and I’m always keen to get this message across. I haven’t changed my body shape – sure, I eat right and move a lot, but I am just the best that I can naturally be. Essentially, you are your DNA. We don’t all need to be stick thin. The most important thing is strength, because when you’re strong on the outside, you feel strong on the inside.
To what do you attribute your success?
It comes down to finding a niche in an over saturated market. And I don’t take myself too seriously. You’ll never find me yelling ‘drop and give me 20!’. I’m also a big people person, and I endeavour to make all my classes ego-free, fun, enjoyable and just generally a safe and empowering place to be*.
*We can testify to this!
Where future plans do you have for Body by Simone?
Oh gosh, lots of things. My latest DVD is set to launch this Friday which is super exciting. I am also working on an app which I can’t disclose too much about, but watch this space. Also, I have a partnership with Third Space gym in Soho, where I will be holding monthly classes.
How did your collaboration with Third Space come about?
I was working there with Rosie Huntington-Whiteley for a Marks & Spencer event, and I loved the feel of it. It’s high end and boutique – really similar to my dance studios in LA.
It’s unrealistic to think we can all look like Victoria’s Secret models, but what weekly routine should we be following to be the best we can be?
It’s all about moving. I love FitBits and Apple Watches as they tap into our consciousness of how many steps we’re doing, how long we’ve been sat on our asses, and what we’re consuming. It’s always necessary to remind people that its 20 percent exercise and 80 percent diet. If you’re busting your ass in the gym, then this should be reflected in your diet. I encourage clients who are wanting to see big changes to eliminate gluten, dairy, sugar, caffeine and alcohol.
We need to take responsibility of our bodies. Over the pond, there’s a health food shop or spin studio on every corner, and I love coming over here to see that the message is spreading too.
If people have 10 minutes a day, what can they do?
10 jumping jacks! Anything...just move.
What mantra do you live by?
Wake up, kick arse!
Where do you shop for your workout gear?
I am very spoiled. A lot of brands send me tonnes of beautiful stuff. I adore Sukishufu, a British active wear brand. Carbon 38 too - a luxury athleisure site that stocks brands like Varley and The Upside. Of course, the (not so distant dream) is to have my own brand. I mean, I spend my life in active wear so I’d like to think I’m well placed to create good-looking, hard-working pieces.
Body by Simone – Sweat, is exclusive to Third Space members, to find out more about Third Space membership and to be a part of these exciting monthly classes visit: www.thirdspace.london
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