Mary J. Blige is showing off her new body in the December issue of Shape magazine. In an interview Blige dishes on her new lifestyle that was spun in part by the untimely death of Whitney Houston. Check out highlights of the interview below:
On how Whitney’s death inspired her:
“Whitney Houston’s death really crushed me. I saw someone so incredibly talented just diminish, and I refuse to go out like that.”
On how she maintains her body:
“My main exercise is cardio. The treadmill is fine, but running outdoors gives me the best results. I try to log six to eight miles a week. I could be in the worst mood, but when I do my cardio I feel much, much better.”
On giving up alcohol for a second time:
“Others may be able to drink and have a great time, but it doesn’t work for me at this point. I haven’t had a drink in a year and three months. I had quit for a long time but started again about five years ago. I’m off it completely once more, and now I feel stronger than ever.”
On learning to swim and conquering fears:
“I never swam as a kid and that always bothered me. At first, it was very hard, but once I got in the water and figured out how to breathe, it was so liberating. Now it’s helping me with every aspect of my life – personally and professionally. Conquering that fear was a huge boost to my confidence. I’m as proud of this accomplishment as I would be if I had graduated from college, which I never got to do.”
