During Martha Stewart's decades-long career, she has proven to be the ultimate survivor. Able to rebound after going to prison like other stars who were behind bars, Stewart hasn't even let anything stop her from enjoying life.
When Stewart isn't maintaining her business empire, she has worked hard to remain in such good shape that she returned to her former modeling career in her '80s. Since Stewart looks so incredible, many observers wonder what she does to stay so fit.
What Does Martha Stewart Think About Posing For The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue Cover?
After the first Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue was published, appearing in the pages of that magazine became one of the most sought-after modeling gigs in the world. That fact allowed Sports Illustrated to feature the top models in the world in its Swimsuit Issues.
More recently, the perception of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue has changed. The reason for that is while traditional supermodels like the former Victoria's Secret Angel Barbara Palvin still appear in the Swimsuit Issue, Sports Illustrated has welcomed a wider array of models.
In 2023, that trend continued when Sports Illustrated recruited 81-year-old Martha Stewart to appear on the cover of its Swimsuit Issue. In May 2023, Stewart spoke to People about modeling for the Swimsuit Issue and revealed how she wound up posing for Sports Illustrated.
"It should have been 30 years ago. That would have been great. It was not a goal I set for myself, but once asked, I thought to myself, let's do it!"
Stewart then went on to tell People about the mentality she had to adopt as she prepared to appear on camera with only her swimwear on.
"I tried on all the bathing suits and outfits the night before the shoot, and there were so many things to try on. You have to throw modesty out the window because they're prodding you and pulling and straightening — so I had to grin and bear it."
Stewart also revealed why she insisted on wearing swimwear that didn't cover up too much of her body during her photoshoot.
"They're actual bathing suits that I'm wearing — I'm not all covered up. I don't like caftans. They're very glamorous shots. Probably like any of the models, I would have preferred if I could have worn a really skimpy bikini, but at my age, wearing what I was wearing was appropriate. They're not cover-up bathing suits, though, I don't like those."
How Does Martha Stewart Stay In Amazing Shape?
At the height of Martha Stewart's career, she was one of the most trusted people in the media. Much more than a television personality, Stewart became a business leader, an author, and a hero to millions of people all over the world.
Unfortunately, there are many people in the media who profess to live one way only to be exposed for being completely different out of the spotlight. When it comes to Stewart, however, she truly does lead the kind of lifestyle she teaches her fans about from all accounts.
One of the most notable ways that Stewart practices what she preaches is by making sure to maintain her health. Stewart wrote about her lifelong pursuit of mental and physical health on her website in 2021.
"Good health, vibrant energy, clear thinking: That's what I strive for every day. And I always have. My parents taught me and my siblings positive habits early on, encouraging daily exercise (we walked and rode our bikes, instead of being driven), nutritious eating (no fast food), and proper hygiene for hair and skin."
Stewart continued, "I passed these practices on to my daughter, who now does the same with my grandchildren. I love that Jude and Truman eat a vegetable-forward diet (with very little sugar) and are so active, with sports, swimming, and dance. What's more, they love it."
After revealing why she strove to remain healthy, Stewart went on to detail her workout regimen in general terms.
"To feel my best no matter how busy I am, I exercise each morning. Before the pandemic, I worked with a yoga teacher and a trainer, but now I do it alone—and I admit it's been difficult. Getting up early to start the day in an empty gym is never fun. (I'm lucky to have one at home, equipped with weights and the latest machines.)"
Stewart continued later in the article, "But for me, doing the things that bring me happiness is most important for my long-term, overall wellness. I ride my horses weekly, even in cold weather. It's terrific exercise, and being outside is good for the spirit."
Stewart also detailed what kind of diet she adopts to keep her mind and body fit. "But after a glass of green juice and a cappuccino, I find it's where I can get my mind in the right place for the day ahead."
Stewart continued, "Balanced eating is also essential. During this time at home, I've focused on growing food, gardening, and cooking delicious meals. I drink lots of water and avoid junk (I don't keep snacks in the house), and I've nearly stopped dining out—something I used to do almost every night. I've lost weight as a result, delighting my doctors."
After it was announced that Stewart was gracing the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, she went on Today and spoke about her fitness regimen. During that conversation, Stewart detailed how she became more dedicated to looking her best in the weeks leading up to her photoshoot for the magazine.
"I didn't starve myself, but I didn't eat any bread or pasta for a couple of months," Stewart said. "I went to Pilates every other day and that was great; I'm still going to Pilates every other day 'cause it's so great. And I just, I live a clean life anyway — good diet and good exercise and healthy skincare and all of that stuff."
During Stewart's aforementioned People interview, she also revealed she gave up alcohol in the weeks leading up to her photoshoot and she got a spray tan.