Sweaty Betty's Bum Sculpting Leggings

Sweaty Betty founder and creative director Tamara Hill-Norton talks fitness resolutions, wellness trends and female empowerment.

By Tessa Trudeau

"Workout wear is more than something to sweat in, it's a tool for transformation," says Sweaty Betty founder Tamara Hill-Norton. Since its inception 20 years ago, the British brand has taken the fitness world by storm with one goal in mind: to empower women. Today, Sweaty Betty continues to do just that with elevated exercise and athleisure gear that helps women celebrate their bodies while working out—and not—because life isn't spent only in the gym.

As Sweaty Betty's brand-new collection launches at Nordstrom, we chatted with Hill-Norton about her workout regimen, wellness trends to look out for and her ongoing mission to help women feel their best. Who better to talk to about all things fitness than the original "Sweaty Betty" herself?

How are you changing your fitness routine for the new year?
I’ve found I really know what works for me, so instead of making big changes I plan to try new studios. I especially love trying new workouts when I travel—I did The Class last time I was in New York and the U.S. is where I discovered Megaformer Pilates.

Are there any wellness trends you've tried recently and loved?
I've been trying out intermittent fasting recently where I eat all of my meals in an eight-hour window. This has given me loads of energy, so I'll definitely keep it up.

What trends should we expect to see in the coming year?
I think in 2019 there will be a much more holistic approach to wellness. Self-care and meditation are becoming just as important as fitness, so I think we’ll continue to see people become more mindful.

We're designing our spring/summer 2020 range at the moment and really focusing on this holistic athletic approach, with lots of supersoft fabrics, seamless pieces and body mapping. Sustainability is also really important; I can’t believe how much has changed in the last 12 months and I think this will continue this year with even more recycled fabrics.

You created Sweaty Betty to help women feel strong and beautiful. How do you define "empowered women"?
An empowered woman is someone who feels strong and confident in who she is and doesn't try to be anyone else. She lives by her own agenda and doesn't try to be perfect. I think there's such strength in femininity and being proud to be female.

What is your go-to healthy snack? What is your food indulgence?
My go-to healthy snack is usually one of Rude Health’s Sesame Crunch bars, or when I’m organized I make my own energy balls. Though Nordstrom's Dark Sea Salt and Caramel Chocolate is my food indulgence, so I'd probably reach for that every time.

You say that "life would be boring if it wasn't a mix of green juice and cocktails." What's your favorite cocktail when you want to keep it healthy-ish?
A margarita.