Lawyer-turned-obstacle racer, Nicky Inge has taken her stress-induced life and turned it into one of health and wellness. Having been diagnosed with irritable syndrome before, she developed an insatiable interest in nutrition and fitness. Today she also works as a health and wellness coach and helps people to improve their lives through stress management, fitness and the right foods
YOU’VE BEEN COMPETING IN THE SPARTAN RACES ALL OVER ASIA AND HAVE MADE QUITE A NAME FOR YOURSELF. HOW DID YOU GET INTO THIS SPORT?
A friend suggested that I sign up for Hong Kong’s first Spartan Race in 2016. It was my second ever running type of race and I somehow managed to finish top 10 in the women’s elite category. I loved it out there; the adrenaline, the satisfaction of completing an obstacle and pushing through in the last kilometers when your mind is saying stop.
YOU’RE ALSO A HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACH
I enrolled in Integrative Nutrition’s Health Coaching Program during my third year of working as a practicing solicitor. At the time, I was extremely stressed at work, eating poorly and clocking 4, 5 hours of sleep at best. I knew such a lifestyle would not be sustainable and I wanted to figure a way I could improve my wellbeing. Integrative Nutrition teaches us to look at health holistically, and that nutrition, career, relationships, spirituality, fitness, and pursuing your passions play an equal role in creating wellness and should all be addressed when exploring health.
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN THREE WORDS
Sunshine, energetic, honest.
THE CHARACTERISTIC YOU LIKE LEAST IN YOURSELF
I’m easily affected by what people say or think about me. It’s frustrating because at the end of the day you will never please everyone, no matter what you do and how you act.
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE WHEN YOU WERE YOUNG?
I wanted to be a painter.
WHAT’S THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER BEEN GIVEN?
My dad always told me that the struggles we go through are what makes us stronger, better and humble. We should let them make us and not break us.
See also: Hannah Bronfman – Fitness Queen
HOW DO YOU WORK OUT AND TRAIN FOR UPCOMING RACES? DO YOU INDULGE IN OTHER TYPES OF SPORTS?
I do a mix of trail running, bouldering/rock climbing and strength-based training in the gym. On my rest days, I love getting in a round of golf and yoga that is more specific to runners.
DO YOU SPEND MUCH TIME ON SOCIAL MEDIA?
I used to be really against using Instagram and showcasing my lifestyle. Now I can’t imagine not using it. It’s allowed me to connect with many like-minded individuals who are interested in fitness, nutrition and wellness.
HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH CRITICISM?
I’m still learning. I’ve recently come to realize that there will always be haters; people who want to put you down and see you lose. It’s not an easy thing to acknowledge, but I’m choosing to do me and not let other people dictate my worth and my outlook. I’m grateful for the friends and family I have that have in turn always motivated and supported me.
FAVORITE EXERCISE
Running on the trails early in the morning. It makes me feel like I don’t have a care in the world.
FAVORITE ACTIVEWEAR BRAND
Under Armour.
FAVORITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION
Niseko in Japan. Skiing, hot springs and Japanese food. Say no more.
TREASURED HOTEL OR RESORT
Alila Villas Uluwatu in Bali.
See also: Rod Cooper – The Movement Collective
BEST PLACE ON EARTH
The mountains. Skiing, climbing or running up there. I loved Squaw Valley in Tahoe, where I went last year to represent Hong Kong in the Spartan World Championships. It’s absolutely breathtaking and an experience I will always hold on to.
YOUR TRAVEL ATTIRE
Compression wear to prevent any muscle aches after the flight.
FAVORITE ‘ME’ TIME
Long beach walks. I believe it’s good for the soul.
YOUR FAVORITE SPA
COMO Point Yamu in Phuket.
YOUR BEAUTY SECRET
You are what you eat. In the mornings, I always take one sachet of green powder from MyMaha, collagen powder from Vital Proteins, Ashwagandha and medicinal mushrooms from Sun Potion.
YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT
I have yet to find one that I think smells like “me”. I also think that I perpetually smell like mud from all the races.
FOOD YOU CRAVE
Burrata cheese.
WHAT KEEPS YOU UP AT NIGHT?
Planning for upcoming race trips and the 2018 race season. I’m super excited for what this year will bring and to represent Hong Kong again!
WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Amelia Boone. She’s a full-time lawyer and a world champion in obstacle racing.
ON YOUR PLAYLIST
I’m currently reliving the 90s.
WHO DO YOU FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM?
@reakolbl, @leefromamerica, @morganmitch, @ochosystem.
WEBSITES YOU REGULARLY VISIT
Runner’s World, The Luxe Nomad, Into the Gloss.
THE BOOK ON YOUR BEDSIDE TABLE
How bad do you want it?: Mastering the Psychology of Mind over Muscle by Matt Fitzgerald
SOMETHING YOU CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT
Family and friends. The outdoors. Food.
YOUR FAVORITE QUOTE
“Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.”
