As residents across Ealing started the new year with plans to improve their physical and mental wellbeing, Billie Nixon, fitness manager for Everyone Active at Northolt Leisure Centre offers top advice on how to sustain a fitness journey beyond January.
Ms Nixon said: “We’re mindful that the beginning of the year can bring about pressures to reinvent yourself and so we want people to have fun and enjoy fitness in a way that suits them – leading to a sustainable shift for their physical and mental wellbeing.”
Everyone Active manages ten sports, leisure and golf facilities in partnership with Ealing Council, including Acton Centre, Northolt Leisure Centre, Dormers Wells Leisure Centre and Brent Valley Golf Course and Fitness Centre.
Here are Billie’s and Everyone Active’s top tips
1 – Explore diverse activities
Getting fit doesn’t have to be all about the gym. Consider trying something different and taking part in an exercise class, swimming or badminton. Exploring different activities will enhance your all-around fitness and keep your interest levels high throughout the year.
2 – Beat the rush
If you’re hitting the gym, it might be worth considering when you visit. No two centres are the same, however, the post-work window is usually busy, so a lunchtime session, a mid-evening slot or rising early could be the answer.
It’s also important to remember you don’t necessarily need to use a wide variety of equipment to get a full workout and the less equipment you use, the less likely you are to run into gym traffic.
For some initial inspiration, click here.
3 – Know your limits
Begin your fitness journey by establishing a solid foundation. Don’t make the mistake of jumping into a punishing routine that might result in burnout or injury.
If you’re wanting to boost your aerobic capacity, starting with long walks or steady cycling will improve cardio fitness and prepare your body for more intense activity down the line.
4 – The influence of social media
While social media can be a source of information and motivation, some can derail your fitness plans with unrealistic expectations. This is why it’s better to focus on your own personal goals rather than being swayed by external influencers – enabling you to find your own sustainable, and attainable, approach to fitness.
5 – Shift your focus away from superficial goals
Move away from appearance-centric goals and instead view fitness as a means to leading a longer, stronger and healthier life. Consider practical objectives instead, such as keeping up with your children, to establish a meaningful connection with exercise.
6 – Talk to the experts
Seek guidance from our experienced personal trainers who can provide tailored advice and exercises. Alternatively, participate in Small Group Training sessions for a supportive fitness journey alongside like-minded individuals.
7 – Virtual classes
If you’d rather avoid a class environment, why not explore virtual options? Everyone on Demand, Everyone Active’s app, offers a range of virtual classes led by renowned trainers, allowing you to engage in fitness from the comfort of your home.
To find out more, click here.
8 – Take your time
Part of a fitness journey is having sustainable goals which, despite popular beliefs, don’t need to be met straight away. So, why not take a few weeks exploring your local leisure centre and the facilities they have to offer – from state-of-the-art gym equipment to swimming pools, there is something for everyone throughout Ealing.
