Who’s a “Fitness Fashionista”? She’s fit, smart and sassy with a good heart. She’s inherently stylish, whether sporting gym gear or out for a night on the town. Meet her, learn her ways and borrow (steal?) her effortless fitness style secrets.
This month’s Fitness Fashionista is Melanie Barnish from Hong Kong’s Genie Juicery.
It’s no surprise the co-founder of the city’s original juicery is powered by green juice, but did you know she’s up at 5.30am most mornings? “I am definitely a morning person,” she says. “It’s hands down my favorite time of the day, especially in Hong Kong. It’s the only time when the city feels calm and quiet.”
Born and raised in the “great down under,” health and fitness had always been a big part of this gorgeous Aussie’s life. But it took burning out in the fast-paced city of Hong Kong to finally throw herself into a healthy pursuit: in December 2012 she partnered up with long time bestie, model-turned-mama Cara McIlroy, to start the Genie Juicery.
In addition to keeping Hong Kong healthy, Melanie and Cara are also champions for local charities, like Hong Kong Dog Rescue (Mel’s doggies, Pablo and Batman are both HKDR doggies).
When Melanie is not juicing (or designing bikinis, her other creative passion) she’s hiking Hong Kong’s hills with her pups or working out with girlfriends. “It’s always a good catch up and it’s so motivating training in a group.”
It’s Genie’s birthday this month, so head over to their website to enjoy 15% off online purchases.
MAYYA Movement: What time does your alarm go off?
Melanie Barnish: It doesn’t! My body clock wakes me up between 5.30 to 6am each morning. I am at my best in the morning and I love an early night.
MM: What’s your favorite time of day to workout?
MB: Morning for sure, it’s when I feel the most energized — it’s the best when you have time to exercise before work. You feel accomplished, happy, hydrated and ready to take on the day.
MM: What’s your workout of choice?
MB: I would have to say circuit training. I do this every morning with a group of girlfriends — it’s always a good catch up and its so motivating training in a group. I also, of course, like feeling strong!
MM: Describe your activewear style. Do you think it’s important to look good in your gym gear?
MB: I’m all about comfort. It’s not important to look good in your gym gear, but it is important to feel good.
MM: What do you think is the most important accessory a girl can wear?
MB: A smile.
MM: What’s your go-to breakfast?
MB: I am liking my homemade almond milk [and] superfood oats mix at the moment. Oats, cacao nibs, chia, hemp seeds, dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds — whatever I’m in the mood for.
MM: Coffee or green juice?
MB: Both! I tend to only drink the Genie Juicery’s cold brew coffee as I can feel it is much gentler on my system. And green juice, I am clearly a big advocate of that.
MM: How do you find time and motivation to squeeze in a workout each day?
MB: It comes naturally. I love it.
MM: What’s your top tip for staying healthy?
MB: Getting enough sleep and water plus eating clean.
MM: What daily healthy practice can’t you live without?
MB: Eating and drinking greens.
Melanie’s two dogs Pablo and Batman hiking in Hong Kong. Follow her on Instagram: @melaniekatebarnish
Melanie’s picks for a healthy and active summer
NIKE FLYKNIT 4.0
The most comfortable and light weight shoe on earth
URBANEARS
Love the bright colors and they hold in my ears really well when running
THE UPSIDE
They do great prints! And I love an oversize tank
LULULEMON SPORTS BRA
They are very creative with their designs and I love the colors and prints available, not to mention superb quality
GENIE JUICERY ALKALINE WATER
Super hydrating, and my favorite bottle to drink out of
BASSIKE SLOUCH PANTS
Uber comfy and great for post work outs, great range of basic casual wear
MAYYA Movement’s Pick
SAWADEKAH
(HKD 60)
This fruit- and vegetable- based drink has only 130 calories and is made up of kale, spinach, cucumber, coriander, lime and pineapple.
Think you’ve got the makings of a Fitness Fashionista? Or know someone who does? Get in touch with us to nominate next month’s FF!
