Posted by | Cyrena Rose

Mary J. Blige Exposes Solid Abs

“Whitney Houston’s death really crushed me. I saw someone so incredibly talented just diminish, and I refuse to go out like that.”

42-year-old Mary J. Blige appears on the December cover of Shape magazine showing off her toned abs and healthy physique and revealed the path she took to fitness, which includes a strict no-alcohol rule.

“I haven’t had a drink in a year and three months,” she said proudly. “I had  quit for a long time but started again about five years ago. I’m off it  completely once more, and now I feel stronger than ever!”

“Praying, meditating, and being honest with myself. It’s not easy, but at the  end of the day, if it’s not healthy — or if it’s killing you — you need to see  the truth and stop,” she told Shape. “Others may be able to drink and have a  great time, but it doesn’t work for me at this point.”

Mary’s workouts are focused on cardio, which she gets by running six to eight miles a week.  “The treadmill is fine but running outdoors gives me the best results,” she shared.  “It makes me feel better when I get that run in.  I could be in the worst mood, but when I do my cardio I feel much, much better.”

“When I’m fit, I can conquer the world.  I love the way I look and feel right now and am truly comfortable in my own skin.”

For info on Mary’s diet regimen, her holiday album, plus a strength routine from her trainer, JR Allen, pick up the current issue of SHAPE, on newsstands and iPads nationwide November 25.

On  a mobile device? Click here to watch the behind-the-scenes video.