042 NEW YEAR, NEW INTENTIONS
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© CBZ Photography 2016
Beyond the Gym
Fitness doesn’t have to be structured or gym-based. Walking is one of the best forms of exercise, taking the stairs instead of the lift is always benefi cial and swimming is one of the most effective forms of all-round activity – and gentle on joints. With many of us leading sedentary lifestyles it’s vital to keep supple and moving, especially as we get older or if we’re involved in sport. Stretching exercises are really benefi cial as are classes in yoga and Pilates.
Mind Gains Home & Away
Fitness professional Alex Crockford (pictured above) developed his Crockfi t plans as part of a desire to show people there are many ways in which to pursue a healthy lifestyle. The online platform offers fully-supported training
programmes for men and women whether they choose to exercise at home or in a gym. Crucially, they are designed for everyone from those starting out on a fi tness journey through to the more dedicated who may have become demotivated. Alex, who has almost 50,000 YouTube subscribers and is known for actively engaging with and supporting his followers on Twitter, says: “There are many routes to a healthier lifestyle. For some, that will be about the gym but others will want a different approach, whether that’s group exercise, working out at home or in the park, or taking up a sport. “What I’m most passionate about is inspiring people,
helping them remain positive, encouraging them to treat exercise as a lifestyle rather than something to be endured and, above all, I want them to have fun. Enjoy it and you’ll stick with it. “Those are the reasons I developed the plans. To see someone enjoy the benefi ts and be inspired by their own hard work and the results they achieve is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. “We live in a high-stress world. You don’t have to become a gym fanatic but a few initial changes will lead to more and set you up to enjoy life to the maximum.” • Visit
alexcrockford.com
Wear & Tear
Whenever you start a new exercise routine, try to build up your fi tness gradually as this will help prevent injuries such as joint sprains or muscle strains. • Speak to your GP before you start if you haven’t been very active lately or if you have a medical condition. • Be prepared for emergencies and keep in your gym bag: painkillers (oral and topical); ice/heat packs or sprays; compression bandages; blister plasters and sports supports.
How to choose the right gym – ask yourself?
• Why do you want to sign up – is it for general fi tness, sports-specifi c training or social interaction? • How often are you likely to use it?
• Do you simply want a gym or do you like the added benefi ts of a pool, spa and cafe? • Are group exercise activities important to you for motivation?
• Think about practicalities – pick somewhere close to home or work.
• Decide your budget – memberships range from £25 to more than £100 a month. • Go and check out a few gyms. • Ask what’s on offer and what help and support you’ll get. • Check out cancellation policies and annual tie-in contracts.
Meeting demand
Pay-as-you-go and no-thrills gyms are an increasingly popular choice tying in with busy lifestyles and meaning users are not tied down to 12-month deals/expensive contracts. The benefi t of offering 24/7 opening times has given the industry a boost too – attracting shift workers from doctors and nurses to bus drivers and someone who works behind a bar. Lower prices also come from using cheaper sites, such as former offi ce buildings, basements and old shops, with luxuries such as swimming pools, food and drink, spas and saunas all removed. Instead, customers sign-up online and are treated to a room packed full of exercise machines.
We know being physically active is good for our bodies, but our physical and mental health are intertwined so exercise can be very benefi cial for mental wellbeing too – especially in view of the rising incidents of anxiety and depression. The benefi ts of exercise are numerous from reduced anxiety and stress, happier moods and clearer thinking to a greater sense of calm, increased self-esteem and a reduced risk of depression. • Visit
mind.org.uk;
mentalhealth.org.uk
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