SIMHLE BELINDA PLAATJIES - SA'S NEXT-BEST SPORTS STAR

Multi-talented influencer and fitness fundi Simhle Belinda Plaatjies is establishing herself as the next-best sports and media star in South Africa. We sat down with her for a dose of new-year inspiration.

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Simhle was seven years old when she developed a deep love for all things fitness, and in school was involved in a different sport every day. (“I’m an over-achiever,” she laughs.) She later played for the Gauteng ladies’ hockey team that took home the gold medal in the 2019 Inter-Provincial Tournament.

The go-getter went on to study specialised nutrition and personal training, leading to her current career as a fitness expert, model and brand ambassador for leading athleisure companies.

WHY IS HEALTH AND FITNESS IMPORTANT? AND HOW DOES ONE GET STARTED?
Exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy weight, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and improving mood and energy levels. However, I also believe it is important to listen to your body and to rest when you need to.

I’m not a fan of extreme diets or exercise; the best way to get and stay healthy is to make small, sustainable changes to your lifestyle. This might involve eating more fruits and vegetables, walking for 30 minutes a day, or taking a yoga class once a week. It’s also important to be patient and consistent. It takes time and effort to see results, but if you stick with it, you will reach your goals.

WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL FITNESS PHILOSOPHY?
I believe that it is important to find activities that you enjoy. If you don’t enjoy your workouts, you are less likely to stick with them. So, find activities that you find challenging and fun, and that fit into your lifestyle.

HOW DO YOU MANAGE A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE DAY TO DAY?
By making small changes that I can stick to, to best suit my ever-changing schedule. This includes various physical activities like aerobics and hot power yoga. On the days that I work long hours, I make sure to pack healthy snacks and aways have a bottle of water (with a pinch of Celtic salt for minerals) on hand to stay hydrated throughout the day.

HOW DOES HOLISTIC WELLNESS MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
When we’re physically, mentally and emotionally healthy, we have more energy and feel better about ourselves. And when we’re happy and healthy, we are better able to connect with others and build strong relationships. Holistic health helps us to cope better with stress and challenges, leading to a more fulfilling and satisfying life.



WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT BEING A CONTENT CREATOR?
The fact that I’m able to learn about and explore new things about different topics and perspectives, and develop my own unique understanding of the world, is everything to me. I also enjoy that I can connect with people on a deeper level. I can use my knowledge to help people learn new things, solve problems and express themselves creatively. This gives me a sense of purpose and fulfilment.

ANY ADVICE FOR OUR READERS TO LEAD A HEALTHIER LIFE IN 2024?
Don’t be afraid to slip up. If you fall off track, don’t beat yourself up – just pick yourself up and start again. Find ways to make your healthy habits more enjoyable. If you don’t like running, try swimming or biking instead. If you don’t enjoy cooking, find healthy recipes that are easy to make.

And when you reach a goal, reward yourself with something you enjoy. This will help you stay motivated and on track. It is also important to remember that a healthy lifestyle is not a one-size-fits-all. Experiment with different things to find what works best for you, and don’t be afraid to adjust your plan as needed.

Follow SIMHLE
TikTok: @simhleplaatjies
Instagram:@simhle / @unfit_za
X: @Belinda_Bells

Words by: Charndré Emma Kippie
Photos: Instagram, Supplied