Jinelle Esther, Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader: ‘Treat Food As Fuel And Resist Cravings’

Dallas Cowboys cheerleader Jinelle Esther strongly believes that exercising regularly is essential.

“Whether it’s going for a peaceful walk, or running a marathon, exercising helps you to feel balanced and healthy.”

In addition to remaining physically active, Jinelle Esther also had a chance to discuss her passion for making the best choices when it comes to her eating habits as well.

“In addition to being physically active, it is important to treat food as fuel and resist cravings for products filled with chemicals and preservatives that are toxic to your body.”

Maintaining a strict exercise regimen and staying in shape might as well be included in the job description for Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders — especially with their intense training schedule.

The Daily Mail Australia reports that the squad trains at least five nights every week. The average training session can last three hours, but can also last as long as eight hours — especially if the squad needs to focus on perfecting their routines and highly-praised jump splits.

When she is not fully engaged in her rigorous training sessions with the rest of the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, Jinelle Esther admits that she thoroughly enjoys taking Zumba to stay in shape and have fun doing it.

“My favorite way to exercise is to take Zumba classes! It’s the perfect combination of cardio and toning, and the music is motivating and engages you in the routines.”

Studies have confirmed Jinelle Esther’s theory on Zumba, especially when it comes to burning a substantial number of calories in a relatively short period of time.

According to Live Strong, a 150-pound person who performs one hour of Zumba can burn more than 500 calories.

The former Melbourne Storm cheerleader was selected to join the popular Dallas Cowboy cheer squad in March of last year.

The 27-year-old East Hawthorn, Victoria, native auditioned along with 500 other people from around the globe. Esther beat the odds when she was selected as one of the remaining 18 finalists who went to training camp. She eventually became one of the 12 who actually made it to the team.

During the interview, Jinelle Esther also had a chance to talk about just how homesick she has been since she had to leave Australia behind in exchange for her new career in the United States.

“I miss my family and friends everyday. The toughest part about being so far away is the time difference and not being able to communicate as easily with the people I love.”

The time zone difference between Australia and the United States would definitely call for a major adjustment on Jinelle’s part. For example, Canberra, Australia, is 17 hours ahead of Dallas, Texas.

However, Jinelle Esther also confessed that becoming a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader “has been an absolute dream come true” — even with all of the sacrifices she has had to make since she started.

[Image Credit: Daily Mail and Dallas Cowboys]