Model Mom

Many busy moms barely have time to take a breath, much less hit the gym on a regular basis. But Leigh Hickombottom, a fitness model, author, and blogger based in Geneva, Fla., has found that making “me time” and staying healthy is invaluable—giving her the energy to keep up with her family and thrive in her career. She has graced the pages of magazines including Oxygen, Muscular Development, American Curves, Planet Muscle, and Me, as well as written two books on weight loss and fitness, Logistics of Leanness and Logistics of Leanness Defined. And she was recently appointed ambassador for Sunwarrior, a company manufacturing protein powders and supplements.

First and foremost, Hickombottom, 36, is a full-time mom to four toddler-to-teenage daughters. “The family has benefited by me being in better shape by having a mom that can do everything they can do,” she says. “I can chase them and monkey around at the playground, and I have the strength to carry them around in twos when playing. Although I’m probably more tired than they are at the end of the day!”

Her Workout Routine

“I work out five to six days a week,” says Hickombottom. “I train one body part a week [such as triceps, using weights], unless there is an upcoming event or photo shoot, in which case I train a couple of muscle groups twice a week.” She also fits in aerobic exercise—anything that gets her heart pumping. “Every workout has a cardio session of 30 to 40 minutes,” she says.

Her Diet

Hickombottom follows a low-carb diet. “On a typical day, I eat lean proteins, veggies, fruits, and nuts with a lot of water,” she says. Breads and pastas are a rare indulgence.

Hickombottom has always been athletic and passionate about health, and for most of her life has maintained a healthy weight. However, during each of her pregnancies, she gained about 60 pounds. “It took about six months to get my pre-baby body back,” she says. “I wanted to show women they can do it, too. I am living proof of this.”

Staying Motivated

“A big motivation to maintain this healthy lifestyle are my four beautiful girls,” says Hickombottom. Additionally, self-esteem and spirituality are central themes in her books and blog. “It is important that people realize and appreciate how beautiful their bodies are regardless of what society says is beautiful,” stresses Hickombottom. “Once we learn to love our bodies and who we are, the rest falls into alignment.” To learn more about Hickombottom, visit her website at holleighwood.com.

“If you think for a moment that you are only capable of what others say about you, then you are shutting yourself off to the limitless beauty, wisdom, knowledge, and strength you came into this world with,” says Hickombottom.

Warrior Princess

“I love Sunwarrior Warrior Blend Raw Protein Powder in the chocolate flavor,” says Hickombottom. “It delivers nutritious plant protein to my body, as well as provides me with the amino acids I need to feed my muscles and stay toned. The Sunwarrior Raw Vitamins Daily Multivitamin for Her are also a daily must-have.” Sunwarrior products are GMO-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and organic.