Amanda Cerny Talks Fitness, Modeling, and Charity Work

Yes, Amanda Cerny was once Playboy’s Miss October in 2011, but that is only scraping the surface of all that she has accomplished. Amanda has quickly turned this opportunity into a successful career in many areas. She knows the importance of fitness and has created an enormous social media following, consisting of nearly 500,000 followers on Instagram. Also, with her role as an international model, she gets plenty of perks, including the chances to travel the world. Yet, she has turned this into an opportunity to help those in need through her Play Foundation. She is the chairwoman and founder of this charity. This is a perfect example of the type of person Amanda is and why she should be looked at as an inspiration for many others. This past week, I had the chance to ask Amanda some questions. Here is the Q&A:

When did you first get into modeling?
I started modeling for fun in high school… Although I began modeling professionally while I was in college at Florida State University.

What has been the hardest aspect of being a professional model?
I guess the hardest part would be dealing with the harsh criticism that every professional model is bound to encounter.

How about your first time meeting Hugh Hefner, what was that like?
My first time meeting Hef was in October 2010. They flew me out to Los Angeles from Florida to test shoot to become one of the famous playmate centerfolds… I hopped in my limo from the airport and as soon as I arrived to the playboy mansion, I had to rush to the dining room to meet Hef himself. I accidentally sat in his seat but he insisted that I remained sitting there. He was such a gentleman! The entire experience was so surreal.

Can you briefly explain an average daily workout for yourself and the importance fitness has on the career of a model?
Fitness is extremely important for models and for just about everyone else as well. Of course it is our job to look our best but it is also important to live a long and healthy life. Eating healthy and fitness are both equally important for living a happy and healthy life. My average daily workout consists of one hour of High intensity interval training. This allows me to get a workout in every day and receive the most benefits from my workouts. I try to squeeze in long distance running and some weight training in a few days a week as well. 

What is your go-to-song or artist for a workout?
I switch up the genres just about every day. It gives me something new to look forward to during my workouts.

So, you also ran track in high school. What events did you do and do you still compete in road races now?
Yes I did varsity track and cross country. I participated in all of the long distance events… I no longer compete but do enjoy running long distance still. It is a great workout and a form of meditation for me.

Are you a sports fan and if so, which teams?
Yessir! I’m from Florida so Miami Heat basketball has my heart although I’m not a die-hard fan…. I still root for other teams when they are not playing the heat of course ;) I also love watching football, soccer (futbol), hockey and tennis. Sports are fun to watch especially when you bet on them ha! I always find myself dreaming that I was talented enough to play professionally like some of these star athletes.

You were also featured in the movie Pain and Gain with Mark Wahlberg and the Rock, what was that experience like? Is it possible acting will be something you will pursue in the future?
It was so much fun! I saw a lot of friends and familiar faces on set. It was a small role but a cool experience. Acting is definitely something that I will consider pursuing. I love being in front of the camera and providing entertainment for others to enjoy.

Could you talk about your trips to Haiti with the Play Foundation and the effect that had on you as a person? 
Yes. I actually starting going to Haiti in 2010 after hearing about the earthquake. I decided to go with a few friends and their charity to donate clothing to an orphanage and ended up falling in love with the children and the country. I have been going to help and visits different orphanages ever since. In working with other charities, I found myself wanting to do more and to also have more control over how efficiently the projects were being carried out. With my career success and friendship with DJ Chuckie, I was able to create the Play Foundation. I want children to enjoy their youth while building social skills as well as their basic core values.
(Picture shown to the right is from one Amanda's trips to Haiti)

What is the central message behind this charity?
It is a Global Foundation with a vision to improve social problems and a mission to build better playgrounds for the children of tomorrow. Being an international model, there is plenty of traveling.

What would you say are some of the more memorable places you have visited?
I am in love with Europe! It is hard to choose the most memorable countries I have been to as many of them have been so amazing and have created lifelong memories for me.

What can fans look forward to in the upcoming year?
A lot! It is hard to put it all down in writing…and I like to keep things as a surprise. My fans know that I am like a box of chocolates… they never know what they are going to get, but it’s bound to be amazing. So if anyone has an interest, their best bet is to stay updated with me through all of my social media platforms… I update them daily!! Probably even hourly haha!

 Feel free to follow Amanda on:
Twitter: @AmandaCerny
Her Website: http://amandacerny.com/
Youtube Channel
Instagram: amandacerny