Fitness is key for Riverdale star Madelaine Petsch, and not just because of the physical benefits. “Working out is so important for my overall mental health, and just makes me feel good,” Petsch told POPSUGAR a few days before launching her new capsule collection of Fabletics workout gear.
The 25-year-old actress said she prioritizes her workouts and her eight hours of sleep, even with a busy schedule. “I’ll always choose to go to bed an hour earlier than normal in order to squeeze in a workout before I head to set,” Petsch said. If she can’t get to it in the morning, she does her best to fit in 30 minutes of cardio after work. “It’s so important to my mental health and happiness throughout the day,” Petsch explained. “If I can work out in the a.m., I’m more on top of my game for the rest of the day.”
Petsch doesn’t play favorites when it comes to workouts, either. “Some days it’s an intense workout with my trainer, and other days it’s a casual walk with my roommate outside to get some fresh air,” she said. “I try not to be too hard on myself and do whatever I’m in the mood for.”
When she is in the gym, Petsch works out with trainer Alex Fine, who leads her through high-intensity bodyweight and resistance-band workouts with a focus on toning and strength. One such workout is an “incredible” six-minute ab routine that Petsch calls the longest six minutes of her life. “It’s quite possibly one of the most intense workouts we do, because we don’t get any breaks, but it’s so worth it,” she said. (Just another reminder that you don’t need a ton of time to get in a good workout!)
When it comes to workout gear, Petsch’s new Fabletics collection reflects her personal preferences. “I love a bold, bright workout outfit,” she said. Her goal is for everyone to feel confident and enjoy working out in every piece.
But even with cute gear and a great routine, there are days when you’re just not in the mood for exercise. When this happens to Petsch, she reminds herself of one thing: you never feel bad after a workout. Between the mood-lifting endorphins and the feeling of her muscles working, “I always feel stronger after,” Petsch said. Ahead, take a look at some of Petsch’s favorite looks from her Fabletics collection, plus some behind-the-scenes workout photos of her (featuring her dog, Olive) wearing bright red outfits that would make Cheryl Blossom proud.