Ilona Carson is an anchor for Eyewitness News and a Reporter for ABC13. As a way to promote a healthy lifestyle to her viewers and fans, we reached out to Ilona to ask her a few questions about her life and how she stays healthy. Her answers are truly inspiring: as a mother, wife, and a working woman, we are seriously impressed with her time management skills! We also love that she finds inspiration in her family and also Jennifer Lopez…keep reading to find out why:
HFR: What is your daily exercise and nutrition routine?
Ilona: I like to wake up and start my day early. Coffee is my biggest vice, so I need that first thing. I strength train twice a week with the amazing Cassie Gallagher at Avenu Fitness and try to go to Pilates a couple of times a week as well. The combination works well for me. I need to add muscle as I get older, and the Pilates does wonders for flexibility, toning, and mood.
HFR: What keeps you motivated to stay healthy?
Ilona: Two things keep me motivated to stay healthy: my kids and my genes. I have three children under the age of 10, so I want to stay healthy and energetic for decades to come. I also have a BRCA 2 gene mutation, which means I’m more likely to get certain cancers. I’ve taken major preventative measures and get lots of extra scanning and attention from the incredible team at MD Anderson. But I’m a big believer that my lifestyle choices play a huge role. Instead of worrying about how many calories I eat each day, I try to focus on how many “superfoods” I can get into my meals. Yes, I’m a sucker for chips and salsa, margaritas, and all things chocolate. But dinner is usually a big spinach salad with blueberries, walnuts, pomegranate, flax, and turmeric- I throw it all in!
HFR: Do you believe that being fit and healthy has contributed to your successful career?
Ilona: Being fit and healthy has absolutely helped me to be successful in my career. In television, the name of the game is ENERGY. It’s hard to sustain in my 40’s with a busy personal life. Getting enough quality sleep, eating well and working out helps energize me for the day.
HFR: What inspires you, in general?
Ilona: First, I’m inspired by my very fit husband, my non-stop children, and my trainer. Gotta admit though.. I also love to read about celebrity workouts and diets. Look at Halle Berry, Jennifer Lopez, or Jennifer Aniston. They’re in better shape now in their 50’s than they’ve ever been. I love to see that! Why can’t I do that too?
HFR: What tips would you give your fans and our readers to staying healthy?
Ilona: I have two tips that have helped me stick with a workout routine (finally!) in my life. First, get enough sleep. At least seven hours, preferably eight. Your body needs it; your brain needs it. Find a way. Second, schedule the time to take care of yourself. I go to the same classes and workouts every week, but I still write them down in my weekly planner as an appointment. I don’t cancel them or change them or not show up. If I let something else come up, it ALWAYS will. Make the decision that investing in your health is a top priority.
HFR: Share something that most people don’t know about you!
Ilona: Fun facts: I can speak with an Australian accent, I dream of having a miniature horse to use as a therapy pet in children’s hospitals, and I love Willie Nelson.
