A few months ago you may remember that Flavour was lucky enough to go to Slam Promo’s Models Wrestling Night where we stumbled (literally in my case) across Claire Aves and it was only recently that we managed to track her down again and we’re glad we did as there’s a lot more to this self-styled Superwoman than meets the eye…

Hi Claire! Welcome to Flavour! How are you doing?

I’m very well thank you, Training hard as ever 🙂

What made you decide to become a fitness model?

I decided not too long ago to be honest, I have been into my fitness routine for quite some time now, but looking at other fitness models has inspired me to do this. Plus it’s what I love to do especially as I’m starting personal training very soon.

Do you have a dedicated exercise regime? What’s a typical programme for you?

YES!!!! (Laughs) I’m currently training for my wrestling competition and boxing fight. I do 3 to 4 sessions of boxing a week and 2 Brazilian Jui jit su sessions a week, as well as going to the gym 3 or 4 times a week. I normally go to the gym at least 5 times a week but having all the other training I don’t want to over train. So for example on a Monday I would do an hour gym session, concentrating on abs, legs, bum and then I would have an hour boxing session this would concentrate mainly on my upper body i.e.: arms, back, shoulders etc. so everything is covered.

Where do you normally train and how often?

I normally train at Fitness First in Liverpool Street, London, my boxing sessions are held here too, I train for my jui jitsu in Camden and a training school in Erith and for general gym training that would be at Fitness First.

What hints and tips do you have for someone who’s looking to get a body like yours?

Train at least 3 times a week, an all over body workout, EAT healthy and well, regular and often. Give yourself some goals and reward yourself. This will give you motivation to train and stay healthy.

Do you have a training partner or do you prefer to train alone?

I prefer to train alone, I get more done, I’m not one to have a girly nattering at the gym, or read a magazine whilst on the running machine, you’re meant to be working out damn it!!!! (Laughs)

Diet is important of course – what’s your typical meal plan?

On a typical day I would have for breakfast Oats with berries, and whey protein shake, Lunch: chicken salad, sweet potato or brown rice dinner: steak, veg and small portion of brown rice I also have snacks throughout the day fruit/nuts or protein bars, rice cakes, I always have a protein shake and some fruit after my workouts to help me recover.

Are there any foods you miss?

When I’m on a low carb diet I miss PIZZA and PASTA (Laughs)… I do have a mega sweet tooth so I always miss my sweets and cakes ALWAYS (Laughs)

Aside from fitness modelling, you’re also involved in a boxing/wrestling competition – tell us more about that:

That’s correct I have my wrestling comp on 13th September which is being held in Grosvenor Square London there are 10 girls involved and it is hosted by Jodie Marsh all proceeding go to Great Ormond Street Hospital, You can visit the event on Facebook via my fitness page www.facebook.com/claireavesfitness I have competed before its quite nerve racking but once you get into the fight its brilliant. Gracie Garcia a Brazilian Jui Jitsu martial artist is training us. My boxing fight is on 8th November, which is called, The City Warriors Models fight night, this I’m very excited about, I’m new to boxing but I seem to be picking it up quickly. It is being held at Coronet in Southeast London. There will be 10 fights; all models battling it out 🙂 you can check it all out on my fitness page or www.citywarriors.co.uk

Are there any warnings or suggestions you can give to avoid injury when training or competing?

Rest and recovery!!! It’s very important; there is nothing worse than over-doing training as this will cause much more injury – that’s the biggest tip I can advise. Also protein shakes after exercise help to re-build muscle.

Are you a natural beauty or would you find it hard to live without fake tan, eyelashes, nails…?

I would say I’m a natural beauty but I do like my fake tan and lashes when I go out I don’t wear them during the day, I never really get my nails done as I do a lot of fitness training and fighting so there always breaking lol.

Are you a high street girl or a designer clothes diva?

I’m a high street diva hehe !!!

Any favourite places to shop?

Love Topshop you can find everything in there especially the one in West End. Zara is a love of mine to. Mango is another favourite and River Island. NO need for the designer brands I can look hot without them haha, although I do have some designer stuff Love my Karen Millan dresses. If I’m going somewhere exclusive then I will splash out on a designer dress for sure.

You have great skin, how do you maintain it?

Yes I cleanse, tone and moisturise day and night.

What’s your favourite lipstick?

MAC Satin

What’s your favourite underwear brand?

Victoria Secrets and Agent Provocator – for them special and intimate moments with the boyfriend, his a big fan also 😉

Claire, thanks so much for stopping by, it’s been an absolute pleasure to feature you! What’s your parting message for everyone?

You always have time to exercise and keep fit and healthy!!!! If you want it that badly you will do it!!! NO EXCUSES!!! Also, please have a look at my fitness page on Facebook and keep up to date with all my training and upcoming fights, Photos, tips and advice.

www.facebook.com/claireavesfitness

Interview by Gareth Long.

Photography by Simon Howard at SNHFoto.co.uk