Keesha Sharp is definitely one of the busiest actresses in Hollywood. With a resume that includes the hit sitcom “Girlfriends,” the critically-acclaimed “The People vs. O.J. Simpson,” and FOX’s “Lethal Weapon,” she shows no signs of slowing down.
As a healthy lifestyle advocate who is very passionate about proper nutrition and fitness, it is easy to see how Sharp is able to keep up with the hectic pace of her professional life. BlackDoctor.org spoke with Sharp about her love of boxing, why we need Black women action heroes on the big screen and how she stays committed to her nutrition and fitness regimen.
BlackDoctor.org: You frequently talk about boxing being among your favorite ways to work out. What sparked your passion for pugilism?
Keesha Sharp: I was going to the gym and I started taking a boxing class. I was really good at it and I loved it! And I loved the idea of being a strong woman and being able to punch! It really started that simply. I was then approached by a trainer and in terms of training professionally, that’s how that got started. I thought I was going to be an actress and a boxer at that point but it quickly turned into, “Well what are you going to do if you get hit?” But [my interest] did stem from going to the gym first, discovering the art of boxing, and then it turned into something serious.
BlackDoctor.org: Your love of boxing, in addition to you practicing Krav Maga, seems like a perfect gateway to you kicking butt on the big screen. Would you be interested in that kind of role?
Keesha Sharp: Are you kidding me? I would love to do that! We don’t see a lot of Black women doing that. I would love to start that trend; well, not it just being a trend but turn into something where people look at us and see us in a Marvel [film] or as a superhero or a kick-ass fighter in an action film. I would absolutely love that.
BlackDoctor.org: As an actress, does your hectic traveling schedule and filming in different locations pose any challenges to your diet and exercise regimen? How do you stay committed?
Keesha Sharp: In terms of food, it can sometimes [pose challenges] but if I go somewhere and I can’t eat (I have a lot of allergies), I’ll keep it simple and just eat a salad. The challenge then is that you may eat boring meals a lot, but I’m okay with that because I don’t want to feel bad. In terms of working out, no matter where you are, you can walk. You can get out and run. You can get out and walk around the neighborhood you’re in. When you’re in a hotel, they have a workout room or a gym. You have to stay committed because it’s important to you. For me, it’s not necessarily “Oh I have to work out because I’m worried about weight”; I work out because it makes me feel good. It raises endorphins. It’s literally a “high.” It makes me feel good.