Vanessa Ntlapo, the star of SABC 1’s new boxing drama JAB, reveals how she prepared for her first leading role.
GLAMOUR: How do you feel about being cast as the lead in JAB?
Vanessa: Beyond blessed! I’m happy that my first big role is on a story like this. Others have touched on it, but not to this extent. It’s a story about a young and ambitious black female, in a male-dominated sport, it’s about family, physical disability, addiction, social stereotypes, family and friendship dynamics, courage and honour. I couldn’t have asked for a better role to catapult me into the industry.
GLAMOUR: What sport did you play in high school?
Vanessa: I played netball and I loved it. I’ve always wanted to try hockey, those girls looked incredibly cool on the field!
GLAMOUR: Do you have an interest in boxing?
Vanessa: Before I started the series, absolutely not. Just like many people, I thought boxing was just too violent (PS: It’s not). I’ve developed an interest and appreciation for the art. From an exercise perspective, it’s a great way of keeping in shape.
GLAMOUR: Is exercise and being in shape, something that’s important to you?
Vanessa: Without a doubt! Good health translates into a healthier mind, body, spirit and attitude. Your body is your best friend and you need to take care of it.
GLAMOUR: How did you physically prepare for the role?
Vanessa: I started training with professional boxer and personal trainer, Rushda Mallick, and man was it hard. The first two weeks were brutal, as I wasn’t used to that amount of training. I cried because it was so intense. I trained six days a week at involved everything you can imagine: running, weights, boxing, shadow boxing, sparring in a ring, sledge hammer, pushups etc. I trained for about two to three months before we started filming. And once we started rolling, I did some training in the evening.
My diet did a complete 360 and all I ate was protein, vegetables and a few good carbs because I had to build muscle. I pretty much hated eggs after this! I must admit, at some point I got obsessed with training and the closer we got to shooting, the harder I wanted to train.
GLAMOUR: Would you recommend boxing to someone looking to get in shape?
Vanessa: Yes! It’s such a fun form of exercise. It doesn’t have to be at an intense level, as if you’re preparing for a fight, but incorporate it into your regime and you’ll see the results. Most importantly, try to eat well. That’s the easiest way of staying in shape.
JAB airs every Friday at 8.30pm on SABC 1.
