Kate Upton Shares How Quarantine Changed Her Approach to Working Out

The model says that focusing on quality workouts and setting small goals has been helping her stay motivated.

For many, 2020 was a year of significant shifts. Model Kate Upton echoes this sentiment, acknowledging the chaos but also emphasizing the silver lining she found in the midst of it all. She tells Shape, "Despite the hardships that have prevailed this year, it's crucial to remain optimistic." At age 28, she's been relishing the additional quality time she could spend with her loved ones, particularly her toddler, Genevieve.

Upton discloses that the pandemic has given her the chance to reexamine her lifestyle, leading her to value effectiveness over volume, specifically regarding her exercise regimen. The model has made remarkable strides in her fitness journey throughout the past year, guided by her trainer Ben Bruno, who has also trained Chelsea Handler, Sophia Bush, and Naomi Campbell. Bruno frequently shares videos of Upton's workout sessions online, showcasing her successful feats such as single-leg Romanian deadlifts and 205-pound barbell hip lifts.

Bruno even humorously titled Upton a "meathead" when she only took a brief six-day break from her intense 8-week training routine. Despite her striking accomplishments, Upton believes that the frequency of her workouts is less important than their efficacy. She says, "I have limited free time, usually when my daughter takes a nap. So, it's become essential for me to prioritize high-quality workouts."

Upton reveals that she defines "quality" workouts through the establishment of minor objectives that keep her engaged. "Aim to engage in a solid workout each day, even if you can only spare 30 minutes," she suggests. "I've been exploring workouts from my Strong4Me Fitness program and have also concentrated on achieving PRs. This has become a significant source of inspiration for me." (See her attaining one of her recent PRs with a dumbbell squat to press.) "Working out has served as an essential lifeline during this period," expresses Upton. "However, having a support network is equally important. It's vital to communicate with others, whether it's your spouse, family members, friends or even a professional. There's never been a more crucial time to look after yourself."

Kate Upton, a celebrated personality, has always adopted the "quality over quantity" mantra. This approach was evident in her recent collaboration with beauty and wellness brand Found Active. Together, they introduced a collection of skin-care products and wellness supplements designed specifically for active women. Kate shared that her quest for such products that suit her lifestyle inspired the creation of this line. She aimed to fill a market gap with products that not only enhance outer confidence but also provide inner benefits. The product range includes nutrient-rich gummy vitamins and berry-flavored powders as part of wellness supplements. On the skincare front, there are exfoliating bubble face pads (Kate's personal favorite), along with four unique serums formulated with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and retinol. It is noteworthy that these products, priced between $18 to $23, are cruelty-free and void of irritants like parabens, phthalates, and mineral oil. According to Kate, it was crucial to make these natural, high-quality skin-care and wellness products affordable. As she believes, they can bring about significant positive changes for our bodies.

Most importantly, Upton says she hopes that her new line with Found Active will help women embrace their natural selves. "I always believe in enhancing who you are and looking and feeling your best," she says. "I hope that these products fit into your daily routine instead of you changing your life for them. I want women to be who they are, enjoy their lives, and have the energy to be themselves."