Staying active benefits our all round wellness.
Weight and body shape, can be sensitive topics, at any age or time in our lives. During this wonderful ageing process we are inclined to pick up weight especially around our middle. Declining estrogen can change the way we store fat, along with muscle loss, it can be a challenging combination. In addition some women may suffer joint pain and stiffness. Of course genes and lifestyle play a part. We can’t blame estrogen for everything!
Fortunately I’ve inherited my dad’s genes when it comes to sport and being active. For many including my mum it wasn’t the case nor did she find sport easy. She was always dieting. Gaining weight one moment then losing it the next. Indeed she was and is a healthy eater, but at the time craved all things sweet. Sometimes she’d swim or maybe attend aerobics classes, none were consistent. I feel she never found her niche, it was a constant struggle. Every reason to like the activity you choose. I’ve felt compelled to be a plus one at a yoga class in the past. Never again!
My muscles took time to grow and rather slow I may add, much effort and consistency. I use bottles of water occasionally. I don’t have proper dumbbells. Most of the time I use my body weight, which is tough enough for me. It’s taken around 4 years to reap the rewards and see my body change. It takes a while to see results. If only there was a quicker way.
Be kind to yourself, have patience with yourself.
Tabata workouts are best for me, usually 24 minutes. Intervals of 20 or 30 seconds of work, then 10 seconds rest.
HIIT (high intensity interval training) is great too. After 30 minutes I’m done. Sometimes I’ll just do an intense 15 minutes core, legs or butt depending on how I’m feeling and how much time I have.
Many of you are pilates and yoga lovers including my dad. I’ve tried Hatha and Ashtanga Vinyasa neither are really my vibe. However, on rest days I must admit I stretch and do a little flexibility for about 25 minutes much of the movements are from yoga!
Do what suits you. If you’re new to working out and sport, always start slowly. I vary my activities otherwise boredom sets in.
If I look in the mirror and love what I see, then that’s fine for me, I’m happy.
Love yourself whatever size, or shape you are.
(excuse my selfie, short on photos)
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