Maybe she's born with it... or maybe she works hard for it! Meet Christi McGarry, a multi-hyphenate who juggles being a TV Host (check her out on Beached on Metro Channel), DJ, beauty queen, and model! Christi's physique is one you'd definitely call #goals—she's statuesque, proportioned from head to toe, tall; basically she's the poster child for the perfect inspiration!

When one is a model, though, we often think she's simply blessed with the best genes. But in Christi's case, she works hard to keep that fit physique in tip-top shape too. Not taking her God-given body for granted, Christi makes sure to stay active in various ways.

Christi McGarry in Boom Sason | Photo by John HermisIn this interview with Metro, Christi let us in on how she grew up playing sports, getting into fitness, and juggling a thriving career. Read up and get fitspired!

Metro.Style: What kind of workouts do you love doing? How did you get into all these? Have you always been into fitness?

Chirsti McGarry: I grew up playing sports and have been drawn to an active lifestyle my whole life. I played basketball and volleyball for years, and was really passionate about those sports—but once I stopped playing I had to find alternative ways to stay fit/active, and if I’m not burning calories on the dance floor (haha), I’m either hitting the gym, or doing other activities to stay fit whenever I can find the time. I also love the ocean, so I’ve also grown very fond of freediving and scuba diving.

@christi.mcgarry

MS: How long have you been doing them, and what are some challenges you've faced?

CM: I played basketball for eight years, volleyball for four, and have been freediving/scuba diving for the past six, but I’ve been trying my best to work out pretty consistently after my life in sports for several years now. I enjoy trying new things outside of the gym or switching up my routine as well to keep things interesting. If someone invites me to join for tennis, yoga, boxing, a hike, kiteboarding, to surf, rock-climb, padel, mountain biking, wakeboarding, kayaking—you name it, I’ll most likely be game to try it all, even if I may not be too great at them. I’ve always considered myself pretty adventurous and athletic, and find almost all sports fun and engaging (especially if in nature). But I think one of the most difficult parts is to stay disciplined and consistent amidst a really busy schedule, especially balancing my time while being involved in nightlife and as a DJ. But I do try to remind myself of the benefits and the always—rewarding feeling after completing a workout—not just for the physical health benefits, but for the mental and emotional clarity and benefits as well. 

@christi.mcgarryPhotos courtesy of Christi McGarry

MS: Describe a day in your life, and how you manage to squeeze in time for a workout.

CM: No two days are ever the same for me—between dj gigs, tapings, meetings, fittings, shoots, or fashion shows—all while managing a social life and satisfying my itch to constantly travel, it’s not always easy to find the time to work out. But if and when I can’t make it to the gym or other activities, I also have my jump rope and my resistance bands, which are both very portable/easy to squeeze in a quick session no matter where I am. But one thing I do always try my best to squeeze in, no matter how busy my day, is some quick meditation either in the morning or before bed, because taking care of the mind and soul is just as if not more important than, taking care of your body. If you’re in a good mental state or create a more positive mindset and outlook for yourself, the more motivated and productive you’ll most likely be throughout your day and/or for your workout. 

Christi in Boom Sason | Photo by John Hermis

MS: What about your diet? Do you follow a strict regimen, and how does it supplement your activities?

CM: This one’s also admittedly a tricky one. Most days I’m pretty good, limiting naughty carbs, sticking to healthy proteins and veggies, drinking tons of water—(I also never crave or eat sweets so I guess that might help to my advantage, haha) but there’s other days where I feel like eating a whole pizza or a double cheeseburger from Shake Shack. You really need to learn and understand your body and its metabolism, and what works best for you—but I’ve always believed in balance, and I never really agreed with completely depriving yourself from things you really enjoy—you just need to be disciplined and learn how to treat yourself in moderation or hit it a bit harder during your next workout to compensate for those cheat days or moments.

Photo by Martin ZapantaChristi in Boom Sason | Photo by John HermisMS: How do you treat yourself?

CM: Self-care days are everything! Visits to Belo clinic, spa sessions, getting my hair, nails, and lashes done, a good home-service massage— these all help me feel more pampered and confident on top of the work I’ve put in. I also just love staying in with a glass of wine, binge-watching a series over a good skincare routine/facemask, and like I mentioned, ordering myself a pizza (when I have the time or get the chance). That or a relaxing island getaway/vacation of course—because amidst such a busy overwhelming schedule and the fast paced city life, or any personal stressors you may be experiencing, it’s always important to allow yourself time to breath and slow down to prevent yourself from burning out, and to give yourself a chance to reset, rejuvenate, and recalibrate with fresh new energy to continue on the path towards your goals. Work hard, play harder has always been my motto! 

Christi in Boom Sason | Photo by John Hermis

MS: What is your best advice for women struggling to maintain a fitness routine?

CM: I always suggest you try multiple workouts or activities till you find something you truly love or enjoy. That or do what I do, and try to switch it up so you don’t feel bored with the same routine. It also really helps to work out with a buddy or a group so you’re able to motivate one another, just by being in the same room, or to hire a personal trainer that way you really feel incentivized to commit to a schedule and can receive proper guidance and instruction (especially for beginners!). Have or set a goal in mind which also usually helps me—for example when I have a certain deadline to focus on where i want to look and FEEL my best before a big gig/event or shoot, or trip I have coming up in my calendar, I’m more motivated to perform and put in the work. 

The biggest takeaway from maintaining a fit and active lifestyle though and what you have to keep in mind—is that it’s not just the physical results and changes in your appearance which you will most likely absolutely love and will incentivize you, but more so, (like I mentioned) it’s how you will FEEL. The release of stress and endorphins, the mental clarity, the boost and feeling of confidence and self-accomplishment, the application of discipline, and most importantly, the longevity of your health and your life! Never forget, you’re doing this for you! P.S. Water is the fountain of youth, stay hydrated!