Rita Ora, 35, has spent over a decade on the fast track—achieving chart-topping hits, global tours, and a prominent role as an X Factor judge. Her career exemplifies the idea that in an industry where visibility counts, maintaining stamina is crucial. Taking a break isn’t often part of her schedule.
The singer states, “My friends often say they can’t believe I fill my day off with workouts and appointments, but it’s my self-care routine.” For Ora, exercise serves as a vital tool for regulating her mental state rather than just a means to push her physical limits.
“Many people equate transformation with appearance,” she asserts. “However, the motivation often comes from a desire to enhance mental well-being or alter daily habits.” This insight ignited a passion for fitness when she began regular workouts, fueling a positive mindset through the rush of endorphins after each session.
In the early stages of her career, fitness was a necessity. Rigorous touring, rehearsals, and live performances required stamina, and working out became a way to meet these physical demands. “Exercise inspired me when I felt out of breath on stage, helping me maintain energy throughout my shows,” she reflects.
Over time, she recalibrated her perspective on fitness. “Now, that hour workout is essential for me,” she confides, emphasizing that it’s more about how she feels rather than her appearance.
Raised in a household where physical activity was fundamental, Ora’s early experiences inform her beliefs about fitness today. “I never viewed exercise as a luxury,” she explains. “Growing up, my parents emphasized being active in any weather, whether it was playing football in the park or engaging in outdoor play.”
She is critical of the notion that fitness must be expensive or elaborate to be valid. “There are countless ways to move without jumping into pricey classes or upscale studios,” she suggests. “Ultimately, it’s about moving your body.”
Despite a hectic schedule marked by constant travel, Ora has learned to embrace flexibility in her fitness routine. “If I only have 20 minutes, I’ll use that time wisely in a hotel room—focusing on bands, glutes, or mat work. Pilates is my go-to while on the road since it requires minimal equipment and can easily be adapted to different spaces.”
However, she resists narrowing her focus to one type of workout. “I enjoy strength classes when I’m near a gym, but I don’t box myself into a single discipline,” she clarifies. Consistency, without viewing exercise as a chore, is her guiding principle. “I avoid stressing about my routine since I believe that could be counterproductive.”
Listening to her body has become a vital part of her approach. “If I feel tired, I don’t force it,” she explains. “Being attuned to what my body needs is essential.”
As her preferences have evolved with age, she recognizes the importance of variety in workouts. “In my 20s, I pushed myself hard for 45 minutes without seeing results,” she acknowledges. “Over time, I’ve learned it’s about the quality of the workout, not just the intensity.”
Today, she prefers strength training, appreciating the pace it allows. “In a strength class, you can take breaks and focus on quality without the frantic rush,” she notes, admitting, “I’m still not the best at cardio. A 10k run isn’t my strength, but that’s okay.”
Ora’s advice for beginners offers a practical perspective on fitness. “You don’t need to hit 10,000 steps,” she affirms. “Just moving—like a 20-minute walk in the park—is incredibly beneficial. Walking is an excellent form of exercise.”
After years in the spotlight, her relationship with fitness has shifted towards a more sustainable lifestyle. “It’s about maintaining a balanced approach to living,” she concludes.
### Conclusion
Rita Ora’s journey in fitness underscores the importance of prioritizing self-care through movement. By embracing flexibility, focusing on how exercise makes us feel rather than how we look, and understanding that fitness doesn’t have to adhere to strict rules, we can all cultivate a sustainable and enjoyable relationship with physical activity. Remember, it’s about finding what works best for you and making movement a part of your everyday life!
