Former model and actress Gemma Atkinson has opened up about the specific fitness regime that helps her maintain her enviable figure, a stark contrast to her earlier modelling days. The 41-year-old, who rose to fame in the noughties as a regular in lads' mags, confessed she did minimal exercise during that period of her career.
From Lads' Mags to a Tailored Fitness Plan
Speaking to Heat magazine, Atkinson revealed she now follows a bespoke four-day workout plan designed by her personal trainer, Elliott Upton. Her weekly schedule includes one 50-minute lower-body strength session, a 22-minute metabolic conditioning workout, a dedicated glutes session, and a second quick metabolic workout. She emphasised the practicality of the routine, stating it's "really doable around the kids," and supplements it with plenty of dog walks.
Atkinson's athleticism isn't new; she was sporty from childhood, participating in gymnastics, karate, and running for the Manchester girls' athletic team. Her current fitness inspiration is global superstar Jennifer Lopez.
Nutrition and a Shared Passion with Gorka
Alongside her structured workouts, Atkinson has embraced intermittent fasting as a method to balance her nutrition. She explained that she might finish her evening meal at 7:30pm and then not eat again until around 12:30pm the following day. Despite this fasting window, she notes that her active lifestyle means she still eats "quite a lot."
This dedication to health is a cornerstone of her relationship with husband Gorka Marquez, the professional dancer she met on Strictly Come Dancing. In the December issue of Men's Health, Marquez admitted their shared passion for personal fitness was a key initial bond. He recalled finding her in the hotel gym every morning during the show's UK tour, leading to shared treadmill runs and conversations.
"We were both so into health and fitness," Gorka said. "I fancied her. Then I learned she fancied me, too... But she made me work hard."
Fitness for Longevity and Family
Now parents to six-year-old Mia and two-year-old son Thiago, the couple are further motivated to stay in peak condition. Gorka stressed that their focus is on health and longevity, not just aesthetics. "We are both aligned. It’s not just for aesthetics, it’s for longevity and health," he stated. "We want to stretch life as long as possible and be healthy, too. We want to keep playing with our children."
Marquez credits his own muscular, lean physique to the full-range-of-motion discipline required in professional dance. He advocates for training that prioritises functional strength and health, viewing aesthetics as a natural "consequence" of this approach.
Reflecting on her past, Atkinson insisted she "loved" her lads' mag modelling work and never worried about her appearance at the time, highlighting a journey from a less active lifestyle to one where fitness is a central, family-focused pillar.
