By: June Cheong

What do you do to keep fit?
I run and swim occasionally. Running is the simplest sport - I need only running shoes, socks, a top and shorts; no expensive equipment. Moreover, it is a very convenient sport to do. All you need is a running trail or route. I like to run in the morning around the cities I visit. Places are less crowded then and I get a better view.

What is your secret to looking so fabulous?

I cannot answer this because I do not think I am.

Has there ever been a time when you were not fit and fab?

I was most unfit when I was in secondary school and junior college. At my heaviest, I topped 80kg. It was the fear of the five months' basic military training if I remained obese that spurred me to eat less and exercise more.

What is your diet like?

I try to eat three meals a day. I believe in eating and drinking in moderation. There is nothing that I will avoid or stop myself from consuming.

I do increase my carbohydrate intake if there is a race and it will comprise mainly rice and bread.

What are your indulgences?

No. 1 is wine, especially red wine. No. 2 is sweet stuff. I go gaga over nyonya kueh. Then there's local hawker food. I do make an effort to control myself and I reward myself after a workout. I like going on food trips - usually three or four times a year - and I have been to places like Malacca, Penang and Ipoh for good food.

Do you count your calories?

Definitely not at this moment. I believe in enjoying my food in moderation. Wouldn't life be really miserable if every calorie is counted? Moreover, I love buffets. Fortunately, the number of calories I use during my training is definitely higher than my intake.

Do you take supplements?

Yes. I take vitamin C as an antioxidant and Triflex, which contains chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine and MSM (short for methylsulfonylmethane) for joint repair.

What is your sleep routine like?

I sleep an average of five to six hours per day. I usually start my day around 5am with my morning runs and end my day around 11pm or midnight. I think I am getting sufficient sleep as I do not feel tired or lethargic.

How do you maintain a healthy work-life balance?

Having a well-planned schedule for work and other activities such as training allows me to be more disciplined and focused. It ensures that I prioritise and complete the tasks at hand. With a proper schedule, I will be more likely to finish work on time and be able to reserve time and energy for things beyond work.

What do you do to relax?

I would share a good bottle of wine with friends, because of the company my friends offer and the surprise of what is in the bottle. When you open a bottle of wine, there are always surprises like its bouquet and flavour. Even bottles of the same type or brand exude different characteristics.

Relaxation can come in any form as long as one does things that one enjoys. Running is a form of relaxation. It helps me overcome stress.

What are the three most important things in your life?

Family and friends, health and my career. Family and friends are people I meet often and return home to; they share my problems and happiness. If I am not healthy, I will not be able to do a lot of things. My career is important as it is my bread and butter; plus I enjoy doing my job.

Would you go for plastic surgery?

No, if it is just for improving my looks. One has got to learn to accept what one is given.

Do you think you are sexy?

What is the definition of sexy?

This article was first published in Mind Your Body, The Straits Times.