Karen Ledbury: 'I’m training for my second black belt in karate'

We've all seen her on The Morning Show, Sydney Weekender and The Daily Edition so it’s fair to say Karen Ledbury is one of our favourite faces on Aussie TV.

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But while you might be used to seeing her sparkle on the screen, Karen is basically a superwoman behind the scenes.

With three sons aged 17, 13, and nine, Karen juggles sports, school, homework and her work.

“A smoothie’s the first thing I have because I have a son who’s a swimmer,” she tells me. “He swims six days a week so I’m up at 4am and off to swimming training. You have to have something then, otherwise you start to feel a little bit hungry by mid morning.”

Karen was a swimmer herself when she was younger, but then got into karate – and even represented Australia in the 90s!

“In my teens I got into karate which is a pretty full on sport,” she says. “I was fortunate enough to represent Australia at the World Karate titles in Japan. I got a silver medal.”

While Karen’s the first to admit she’s not the best at exercising, she’s fallen in love with F45 functional training, and boosts her energy levels by making time for herself – whether it’s with a workout, or wine time.

And after 20 years, she's back in her karate gear - training to get her second black belt in a new discipline. Amazing!

The Vitality smoothie is great for Karen’s early mornings and it’s one Popeye would definitely approve of as it’s packed with kale, spinach and lots of veg.

I prefer it a little thicker, but if you want to thin it out, add some nut milk.

How to make The Vitality smoothie

Serves 2

Kale leaves
4 rainbow chard/collard green leaves
2 cups spinach
1 large tomato
2 carrots
1 apple
1 avocado
3 cups coconut/almond milk
1 cup berries (fresh or frozen)
Handful of ice (the more ice the thicker the smoothie)

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