Body Proud

Gina Rodriguez is on a power trip, and she credits Muay Thai, a form of martial arts and a newfound passion that has changed her shape and doubled her strength. The Jane the Virgin star isn’t all workout, all the time, though—she also believes strongly in being indulgent, describing herself as “an equal opportunity eater.” Here’s how Gina strikes the perfect balance of happy and healthy.

- Pam O'Brien

“I’m the strongest I’ve ever been,” says Gina, 33. “Doing Muay Thai taught me so much about my body. Now I view it as an engine that keeps me active and healthy.”

This way of thinking has been a revelation for Gina, who was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s disease—an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid and causes symptoms such as fatigue and muscle pain—right after she filmed the pilot for Jane. Once she started practicing Muay Thai regularly, however, “I felt very stealthy and quick,” Gina says. “It was an amazing transformation.”

The extra energy she gets from pushing her body is powering up the rest of her life too. In addition to working on Jane, Gina is shooting a movie in Mexico and is the voice of Una in the animated film Ferdinand, which is out in December. Add to that the role of CEO and president of her own production company. “I’m living my dream,” she says. “I want to say to women who are reading this story, try anything you want. You’re strong and durable.”

Here’s how Gina taps into her grit and how you can too.

FIND WHAT DRIVES YOU

“My go-to workout has always been a form of fight training. My father was a boxing referee. He taught my sisters and me how to box at a very young age, which was fantastic for our confidence, athleticism, and discipline. This past year, I learned how to do Muay Thai. I went to Thailand with my boyfriend, Joe, for a month, and we trained with champions. To do Muay Thai, you have to build up your strength and stamina. It’s mind over matter; you’re pushing yourself. What I like best about it is the sense of inner strength it gives me. Knowing I can protect myself is a powerful feeling.”