Alison Hammond's Fitness Journey: Pilates and Circuits for Sustained Weight Loss
Alison Hammond, the beloved 51-year-old presenter of This Morning, has opened up about her dedicated fitness regimen designed to maintain her remarkable five-year transformation, during which she shed approximately 11 stone. In a recent interview, Hammond detailed her commitment to Reformer Pilates and early-morning circuit classes, emphasising her preference for natural methods over weight loss injections.
Embracing Reformer Pilates and Circuit Training
Hammond revealed that she has incorporated Reformer Pilates into her routine, citing her stiffness as a primary motivation. "I really need a good stretch—so Reformer Pilates has been brilliant for me," she explained. "You feel absolutely incredible after it." This form of Pilates, favoured by celebrities like Meghan Markle and Jennifer Aniston, typically costs between £25 and £40 for a 45-minute session and is gaining significant popularity across the United Kingdom.
In addition to Pilates, Hammond participates in a rigorous circuit class led by trainer Steve Hensel at Blue Zone. "I also do this early-morning circuit class from the brilliant Steve Hensel at Blue Zone," she shared. "I'll go at 6.30am and do a full hour—it's a proper old-school gym." She described leaving these sessions feeling "amazing," highlighting the physical and mental benefits of her disciplined approach.
Avoiding Weight Loss Jabs and Wellness Trends
Despite her openness to various fitness activities, Hammond has firmly ruled out using weight loss jabs, expressing apprehension due to concerning stories she has encountered. "I think that, for people who need to use them, they're a good thing—but for me, as soon as I hear any scare story, I get frightened," she told Good Housekeeping UK. However, she clarified that she does not judge others who opt for such treatments, leaving the door open for potential future use if her perspective changes.
Hammond also recounted a brief attempt at a gold plunge pool, a wellness trend she found unappealing. "I did try one of those gold plunge pools once—and absolutely not! It lasted about a minute. I was like, 'Why am I literally trying to kill myself?'" This experience underscores her selective approach to health trends, prioritising practices that align with her comfort and goals.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes Behind the Transformation
Hammond's weight loss journey began five years ago after she was diagnosed as pre-diabetic, a condition she has since reversed through healthier eating and consistent exercise. She maintains her figure with a balanced diet, avoiding extreme restrictions. "I don't deny myself anything, I eat everything, but in moderation," she stated. This philosophy extends to her role on The Great British Bake Off, where she indulges selectively in cakes only after judging, sampling only those that receive high praise from judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith.
Her routine includes sessions with a personal trainer, typically four days a week when she is at home. "I've got a personal trainer—she's amazing, she trains me when I can train. If I'm working, I don't train, I'll go for a walk," Hammond noted. This flexible approach ensures she stays active without overwhelming her schedule.
Personal Motivations and Future Outlook
The loss of her mother, Maria, to lung and liver cancer in January 2020 profoundly influenced Hammond's decision to overhaul her lifestyle, reinforcing her commitment to health and wellness. Her journey from weighing 28 stone at her heaviest to her current fitness level serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the power of gradual, sustainable changes.
As Hammond continues to share her experiences, she encourages others to find fitness routines that work for them, whether through Pilates, circuit training, or other methods, while advocating for a mindful and moderate approach to diet and exercise.
