iVillage: Does being a weight loss role model for so many make it easier or harder to maintain weight loss?

Duchess of York: It provides a challenge. It provides a kind of pressure, because you're constantly being looked up and down. It's not a nice feeling. But actually it's really good because it keeps you within your weight. Of course, once you decide you're going to eat, you can always justify... it doesn't matter what anyone does, because you are completely determined to sabotage yourself through food ‑- I know those feelings.

iVillage: People hear a lot about your healthy diet, but not as much about your exercise regimen. What do you do in that regard?

Duchess of York: This table is standing up because it has four legs [gestures at coffee table]. I believe that I have four legs, and if I don't have legs there is no way I'm going to stand up. Water is vital, of course. One. Proper nutrition is vital. Without the proper diet there is no stimulation, whether you're one or 70. That's two. Three, you've got to learn why you do these things. Look at the dark side of yourself ‑- you've got to be honest, no question about it. And the fourth thing: running, or exercise. Every day you have to get that heartbeat going, because the heart is a muscle and if you don't use it, it won't work. The bottom line is, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, I run eight miles. I do Pilates, yoga and strength training. You have to listen to your body and know when to exercise and when not to exercise. Fitness is vital. You won't stand up on just two legs alone.

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