He started his career by chance working at Footlocker in New Jersey, when someone suggested that he model. A graduate from the University of Maine and a 4-year starter and captain on their basketball team, Chris Collins is more than just a pretty face! You have probably seen Collins in many magazines posing for Ralph Lauren.
Traditionally models are viewed as having poor eating habits, what are your thoughts on this?
There is a lot of pressure to be skinny in the industry. I also feel the pressure, but I will never let myself do that. I eat for health reasons not to be a particular size. I've noticed that even sample sizes are getting smaller and smaller than they used to be. And I have been doing this for 15 years.
Is it mainly the women sizes that are getting smaller?
No, it's both male and females.
What are your eating habits like?
I am a vegetarian. Every now and then I will have a piece of fish. I am now leaning towards a vegan diet.
Why are you vegetarian?
When I was eating animal protein I gained weight, I couldn't sleep well and I was always tired. So now I am pretty much on a 99% vegetarian diet.
How many times a week do you workout?
I take Bikram yoga 3 times a week and I play basketball 3-4 times a week.
Any weight training?
No weights. I get a lot out of Bikram. It's a hot room and you work hard during the poses. Jade comes to class with me sometimes.
Do you think you can beat Jade one one one?
(Laughs) I've played on the same pick up team with Jade before. She's good! But I would have a small margin of victory. I think I'm being a little modest.
So what would you do if you were not modeling?
I would probably be a doctor. I took bio in college and I love sports medicine.
Ok, finish the sentence. You cant leave the house without...
My headphones! It's the soundtrack of my life.
Modeling is...
My career.
Staying healthy is...
Very, very important. Health and fitness motivates me. It's who I am.
You second home is...
At the sports bar watching football. It's the only thing I watch.
We can't wait to have Chris play the App - Jade of Spades! Jade of Spades comes out today on iTunes. Perfect for people like Collins who love to stay fit, have fun with their workouts and don't depend on weights! Check out more on Chris Collins, recently in Essence's magazine for the Single Man of the Month.
