7 Proven Ways Meghan Markle Stays in Shape

Meghan Markle, AKA the Duchess of Sussex, seems to have a refreshingly holistic approach to health and fitness. Markle, 41, works out not only for her physical health and appearance but for her mental wellness too. The wife of Prince Harry loves a variety of workouts which give her a toned, strong physique and plenty of energy (which is needed when you have two small children!). Here's the fitness regimen that helps her stay in shape and while actually enjoying the entire process.

Markle works out for her mental as well as physical health. "My health, my state of mind, the feeling you have after a workout; all of these things drive me to step onto my mat or go to the gym," she says. "Sometimes the idea of working out sounds absolutely dreadful, but I always remind myself of how good it will feel afterward. Euphoric, almost."

Markle loves Pilates, both for the physical and mental benefits. Her favorite class in London was at the Heartcore fitness studio. ​​She also loves using the Megaformer machine. "[It's] hands down the best thing you could do for your body," Markle says. "Your body changes immediately…give it two classes and you will see a difference."

Markle is frequently seen hiking outdoors near her home in California. This form of exercise is known to have fantastic health benefits. "In addition to being a good form of exercise, walking through nature comes with other health benefits like lowering your blood pressure, improving sleep and reducing depression and anxiety," says the Cleveland Clinic.df44d9eab23ea271ddde7545ae2c09ec

Markle has practiced yoga for years, thanks to her mother Doria Ragland. "My mom was a yoga instructor so that practice is in my blood," she says. "I love an intense vinyasa class – and even better if it's blasting hip-hop and done in a dark room with candlelight. The best."

Markle enjoys green juice and kombucha for energy throughout the day, but is mindful of her coffee and caffeine intake. "Trying to go for coffee or things like that only end up hurting you in the end," she says. "So to get a really good natural source of energy like a great green juice…Something that gets right into your system is a nice pick-me-up."

Markle trained with Jorge Blanco, the Spanish National Kickboxing Champion, when she lived in Toronto. "I trained Meghan when she was in Toronto during the shooting of the series Suits," Blanco says. "We did a little bit of martial arts, a little boxing, and sometimes kickboxing. I had a great time training with her."

Markle prioritizes down time and self-care. "I give myself the luxury of downtime," she says. "We are all so incredibly busy and juggling so many things but I always take an hour to just decompress, watch mindless TV, snuggle with my dogs and enjoy a glass of wine. That's all part of the investment. It's a balance."