Wednesday, 29 October 2014

The F word

Fitness 

Yes, I thought I'd talk about fitness, not that I'm an expert in this subject or anything but mostly because it's an area in which I'm trying to improve in myself and as with many people - it's a constant battle you have to work at everyday in order to make progress. Personally my journey is nowhere near complete - is it ever? Once you accomplish one goal a complete new one is set and so on making you constantly bettering yourself for self improvement.

 Ever since moving to New Zealand, I do believe I've changed but I've never been this happy or motivated in a very long time so surely its a great thing. I try and get in as much fitness as I possibly can during the week; meaning I attend the gym 6 days out of the 7 but I also add in mini home workouts or go for runs, etc. Typing that up has made me realise it sounds like I've turned a little fitness crazy, I haven't - I promise. One whole hour of working out is only 4% of your day used up which is nothing. I have a goal I'm pretty determined to achieve therefore I want to give it my all, but that's just me. Working out doesn't have to be a crime! Going for a nice, long walk is still keeping fit or going for a little swim will still keep you active and healthy. Getting to the place you envision in your head isn't gonna come straight away you gotta work and keep at it and eventually it will come in time but once you're there you can then look back and realise how much hard work and effort you put it and feel so bloody proud.

Tip: People often confuse thirst with hunger, leading to unnecessary eating. Drink a glass of water 10-20 minutes before eating.

So for me, gym gear is definitely a priority. Investing in some proper attire may be pricey and put a whole in your bank balance for a little while but trust me it's worth it and keeps you motivated. E.g. an over sized top and leggings will probably become uncomfortable and irritate you therefore making your workout worse than it already is. I also recommend consulting an employee when purchasing trainers as each shoe is pretty much designed completely differently and the specific shoe you need regards on how you walk on your foot. You do not need the flashiest trainers just because they're an attractive pair because if they're not designed properly for your type of foot, in the long run (small pun without even trying) the money you spent will of been thrown down the drain. Most shops now also allow you to bring the trainers back if they don't feel right within so many days which is great. I do understand gym clothes are pricey but why not set realistic goals for yourself and once achieved have a splash out on them fancy new nikes. As of makeup... Don't! I know us girls are all a little weary with people seeing the naked face but come on the gym is where people are working out looking sweaty and gross. I'm 110% you won't see someone looking like they're about to hit the town.

Tip: Acne fighting foods - almonds, watermelon, carrot, fig, spinach, whole grains and green tea.

'Abs are made in the kitchen' which to be fair is relatively true. You can workout as much as you want but eating the wrong diet will not make the slight difference. You need to provide your body with the nutrients and all food groups (unless you're vegetarian like me, there are alternatives). Sounds silly but fruit and veg is crucial, everybody knows this but still look upon it. Also getting enough water is important and boosts metabolism. One last tip is for the people who get bored easily. Make yourself a workout playlist with music which determines you to run that extra K on the treadmill or do them extra reps. A quick fix instead of making your own playlists are apps such as Pandora or Spotify which allows you to pick a song you like and then they play songs which relate and are similar to your taste making life a doddle. Cardio machines such as treadmill, crossfit and the bikes usually have tv screens too now allowing you to plug in your headphones which I think is brilliant as I sometimes get too involved in Ellen DeGeneres to remember my legs are still moving. Another thing- switch up your workout if you're likely to get bored. Don't go to the gym and do the exact same routine as the day before. One day focus on cardio the next on weights and then maybe go for a swim. Finding a workout buddy might motivate you as well and keep challenging yourself.



Yes it's possible.
No it's not easy.

XOXO