How To Look Good On The Inside *And* The Outside, As Told By Model & Triathlete Levi Hauwert

So, talking everything from tips to getting motivated for summer, and what life is like being behind the camera and competing in crazy intense challenges... Levi explained to us all the benefits that come along with the hard work.

What came first? Modelling or triathlons?

“Modelling definitely came first. I kind of fell into modelling after I left high school… I was doing personal training and I just got spotted on the street. So that took off, and it took a while for it to become a full time job, but over the next few years it became what I did full time.”

How did you then get into triathlons?

“I always wanted to be some sort of athlete, so I started off as a soccer player for high school, until I was in my early 20s. Eventually I started to enjoy pre-season training more than the actual game, and one of my mates was a triathlete and dared me to win a certain race. That went very well."

Do you prefer being in front of a camera, or competing in a race? What makes you happier?

“Definitely competing in a race. That’s definitely where my passion is. Modelling is something I enjoy doing, but the passion is definitely in the triathlons.”

Out of the three, which is more beneficial for your fitness? Running, swimming, or bike-riding?

“I’m very bias and have a huge love for running. I believe running is more beneficial than any others. But, each of them has their benefits for the body and your health. Swimming is very good for your cardiovascular system, where with cycling you can train for a lot longer and get a longer burn in.

“Running is probably the best bang for your buck. I believe it’s the most enjoyable.”

How do you motivate yourself to stay fit and keep at it?

“I have got a huge passion for winning so that always gets me up. Knowing when you’re out of bed and up early in the horrible weather, when others are sleeping in… that is something that motivates me knowing that I’ve got a training session on top of other people.

"In the summer when the sun is out it’s always hard to stay inside.” 

What tips would you give people who want to get back into shape for summer?

“Go out and buy something new. Something fresh will motivate you, (like Levi's custom 2XU training outfits), so we can see how that would motivate him). Also, having someone to train with. Having some friends to do it with and to compete with will keep you motivated and honest. Just get out into the fresh air and work on the tan!”

How beneficial do you think the exercise is for your mental health?

“That is something I really believe in. Running, riding or swimming – where there is nothing but your mind – you can't hear or see much so that’s really good for you. And then there are the endorphins that come with exercise; they will always make you feel better. If I’m having a bad day there is nothing a good run can’t fix, it will clear the mind. I really believe it’s a good break from the stress of everyday life."

Are people shocked when they hear that you’re a model and a triathlete?

“Yeah a lot of people are shocked that you can do both, or that you have both going at the same time. But they do work hand-in-hand. I succeed a bit in modelling because of how fit and healthy I keep myself, and on the other hand, with the flexibility of modelling and it being a great job, I have time to train more and can put more energy and effort into it."

Do you have any other hidden talents?

“Not really, I think playing soccer is something not many people knew about. It was my main ambition in life, and I pursued that for a long time. But not much than that, I’m very boring other than triathlon’s and working!”

Now, who's inspired to go outside for a run??