Rave Yourself Fit With DJ Charlie Hedges
The co-presenter of KISS FM’s breakfast radio show talks DJ injuries, biscuit rationing and long-distance running
Have you ever allowed yourself “just one biscuit” then eaten the whole packet?
Oh yeah, every Sunday. You think I’m joking, but I’m being very serious. I give myself one day a week, and try and make it a Sunday – I just eat whatever I want.
What’s your most impressive personal best?
I held the record in my school for long-distance running, which is pretty good, although I don’t know the time if I’m honest with you. I went on to do nationals and stuff, too.
Have you ever pulled a muscle in less than heroic circumstances?
Funnily enough, I did actually do my shoulder in through DJing – I like to have a bit of a rave-up when I’m playing. So I had to do some finger-pointing for a couple of weeks as opposed to full-on “get your arms up and go crazy” stuff...
Which excuse for not working out are you most ashamed of?
I once drove to the gym once, and I can’t remember why but I’d just bought a massive bag of sweets. I ate them in the car park of the gym and then immediately drove out – my excuse was I couldn’t go because I felt sick. I gave up my membership by the way.
Have you ever secretly impressed yourself with a feat of strength?
I used to train with this guy, and on one session he gave me these really big weights. I lifted them but it turned out they weren’t even that heavy – he could basically do them with his little finger. But at that moment I thought I was the world’s strongest woman – I was getting ready to give Jodie Marsh a run for her money.
What would you prefer to do, a Tough Mudder or a cross-channel swim?
Oh it makes me feel sick. Is there a third option? I’d give Tough Mudder a go but I don’t like the electric shock part. I’d choose that if I didn’t get shocked. But if not, neither!
Have you ever had a mishap on a yoga mat?
No but I’ve seen people who have. I did Bikram yoga with work – it was sweltering in there and one of the boys got a little bit overwhelmed with the amount of women bending over and doing all sorts… It was really embarrassing for him.
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Would you rather eat a raw steak or a fried insect?
Oh god, steak. Nobody wants to eat an insect. We probably all have though – if my dad cooks a BBQ then we all definitely end up eating some flies.
Have you ever bought a piece of exercise equipment but never used it?
Yeah, how long have we got? A medicine ball, a sit-up machine, a running machine, a vibrating abs thing that I didn’t realise had to be used while exercising – I thought you just sat there and it gave you a six-pack. Turns out it didn’t...
When did you last have a sneaky cigarette?
Never. I've never tried a cigarette in my life. I've got an addictive personality, so like with biscuits, if I have one of something then it leads to 20, so I don’t wanna go near them otherwise I’ll be an addict.
Catch Charlie on KISS FM every weekday morning and Saturday night. For her up to date tour schedule, follow her at facebook.com/charliehedgesfriends and @charliehedges.
Gary Ogden wrote for the print edition of Coach between 2015 and 2016, writing features, interviewing celebrities and covering entertainment. He has also written for ShortList.