Christine is a life-long athlete who has always been drawn to being in the water. Growing up on Lake Michigan (her favorite playground)— her parents got her into swimming lessons before she could talk. She became a competitive year-round swimmer at the age of 4 and swam all year round until she graduated high school at 18. She also ran cross country, track, and played volleyball in high school.
Christine furthered her athletic talents by running a year of track in college (but was injured most of the season). Her Sophomore year in college—she created and organized a triathlon club at Hope College, the school she attended and competed in triathlons for several years.
She doesn’t compete much anymore—but physical activity, for her, isn’t a just a thing she does daily—it’s her lifestyle. Unless she has the flu or an injury, she works out 6 days a week (sometimes 7… depending on how she’s feeling.) She primarily runs and feels that it’s as good for her physical health as it is for her mental health. To find out even more about this fit anchor, keep reading our exclusive interview:
HFR: What is your daily exercise and nutrition routine
Christine: I
Once or twice a week, I go to the gym and lift heavy weights. This is where I do squats, leg press, arms, etc. I don’t love the gym… I’d rather be outside… but it’s necessary for me to maintain/build muscles. I also occasionally box or spin, to change things up.
I am a pescatarian (though I rarely eat fish…. maybe 3-4 times a month. Otherwise I have a plant-based diet) I have a pretty routine (aka: “boring”) diet during the week. I drink coffee in the morning with almond milk creamer and I have a vegan protein bar. For lunch, I make a protein smoothie with fruit, spinach, and dairy-free yogurt. Sometimes I have a salad instead. My favorite snack—lightly sea-salted almonds and red grapes. For dinner, I usually throw whatever veggies I have my fridge onto a pan and roast them with spices—or into a pot and boil them (and top them with a homemade marina sauce or some other light sauce). I love cauliflower, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, spaghetti squash etc. I am learning to cook more vegan too… My favorite right now is a cauliflower-based alfredo sauce on spaghetti squash noodles. I actually enjoy healthy foods.. so my diet isn’t hard for me.
On the weekend though—I cut myself slack—and don’t feel bad about it! I love chips/salsa/Guacamole. Tex-Mex is my favorite. I am a sucker for the occasional side-order of French fries and Italian food. Life is truly all about balance.
HFR: What keeps you motivated to stay healthy?
Christine: Exercise is as much a part of my life as going to work and sleeping. I have been moving – daily – my whole life. I like feeling healthy & strong. I love going on long runs in new places- it’s my favorite way to explore new cities, trails, parks, countries… etc. I also feel antsy if I don’t exercise daily.
HFR: Do you believe that being fit and healthy has contributed to your successful career?
Christine: I believe my dedication to sports at an early age developed my constant drive for success and my ability to receive direction/coaching from mentors and coaches. Being a multi-sport athlete also taught me how to be a teammate and a leader—and how to focus on goals and achieve goals— all things that have translated into who I am as a professional and how I navigate the competitive broadcast Industry.
HFR: What inspires you, in general?
Christine: I gain inspiration from many things: I believe having good health and the ability to move is a gift- and it’s not one I take for granted. I am constantly inspired by Olympic and Paralympic athletes. I am especially inspired by Special Olympics—SO athletes are so grateful for the
HFR: What tips would you give your fans and our readers to staying healthy?
Christine: Find what works for you! Find an activity you like—or one you can at least get on board with! If you like dancing, find a dance class. If you despise running but want to become a better runner, find some good music, lace up the shoes, set a goal maybe 10 minutes, 15 minutes… and just do it. You will feel such a sense of accomplishment
HFR: Share something that most people don’t know about you!
Christine: The fastest mile I’ve ever clocked was 5:29 during one of the last track meets my senior year of high school. I haven’t eaten any fast food in 19 years.. after a bad stint of food poisoning from a burger chain. I also love country music, but I absolutely cannot carry a tune
