Good Morning Britain star credits gardening as secret to enviably slim figure
ITV's Good Morning Britain presenter Charlotte Hawkins says she often swaps the gym for gardening.
Good Morning Britain star Charlotte Hawkins has revealed she regularly swaps working out at the gym for the garden.
The 49-year-old says digging, raking and planting in your garden can be great way to exercise, as it will "use up loads of calories".
Charlotte also says being in her garden is 'therapeutic' and beneficial for her mental health.
Speaking to Closer, she said: "I use gardening as a workout - when you're outside in the garden you actually use up loads of calories.
"There are no shortcuts with gardening - you just have to get down and dirty.
"I was chopping down trees yesterday and it's really therapeutic. Gardening is also great for your mental health."
Charlotte, who also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, believes you don't need to be a professional to make your outdoor space beautiful.
Although she does say it can be "heartbreaking" when you buy "loads of bulbs", only for them not to flower.
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According to the RHS, gardening for 30 minutes burns a comparable amount of calories to playing sports such as badminton or volleyball.
It does, however, also say that gardeners - much like athletes - could run the risk of injury, meaning they should understand correct methods of digging.
The RHS says gardeners also report reduced anxiety and social isolation.
GPs are reportedly advising patients to consider gardening to prevent mental health issues.
