I find it both easier and harder to be healthy in summer than in any other season. On the one hand the light mornings make getting up and out of the door to an exercise class feel less of a challenge, there’s an abundance of in-season fruit and veg to get stuck into, and the longer days make it feel as if there’s more time to. Get. Stuff. Done. On the other hand there are barbecues to attend, ice creams to be eaten and chilled white wine to be drunk in suntrap beer gardens…
At the beginning of the year I set myself some healthy goals – as opposed to making resolutions – the point being to add things to my life that were good for my mind and/or body, instead of restricting myself and therefore setting myself up to fail. With the official start of summer just a few weeks away it feels like it’s the right time to set some new goals. Here goes…
Become A HIIT Woman
If you’re thinking, “First of all, what the heck is HIIT?” it stands for High Intensity Interval Training and involves alternating between short bursts of intense physical activity, followed by short periods of lower intensity to allow your body time to recover. Workouts tend to be shorter (around 30 minutes long), making HIIT perfect for busy lives. Not only that but HIIT kicks your body into overdrive, boosting your metabolism and keeping it elevated for up to 48 hours. Since joining Class Pass I’ve been doing HIIT classes on a semi-regular basis but throughout the summer I plan to include two HIIT classes in my workout week. I like the sweaty exercise high I get from a HIIT sesh and that I’m feeling more toned, even after only occasional HIIT classes over the past couple of months. If you like the sound of HIIT but you can’t get to a class you can incorporate HIIT into whatever you do already, for example, if you’re a runner add 60-second sprints to your regular distance and recover with a minute’s walk or jog.
Take Some Time To Dream
2015 has been a busy year so far in terms of work, which is great, I’m much rather be busy than not, but it hasn’t left me with very much time to think about the future and, without that time to look ahead, it’s very easy for things to stay exactly as they are (I’m thinking of the big life stuff, career, home and so on). Which is no bad thing and at some points in our lives is exactly how things should be. However, I feel like the time is right to think about how I’d like my future life to be. Carving out some time to dream, perhaps starting by making a vision board, will give me the opportunity to work out what’s important to me. Once I know that then I can plot the steps I need to take to get to where I want.
Go To Bed Early & Get Up Later
My tendency is towards filling my every waking hour with activity, starting the day with a workout, before heading to work, putting in eight hours and then, working day done, meeting friends for drinks and/or dinner. It’s not surprising that I frequently look and feel tired and am never quite as organised as I could be. This summer, instead of workout/work/go out and repeat – eventually, inevitably, crashing and burning – I’m going to schedule in a couple of early nights a week and a couple of not-so-early mornings, giving me more time to organise, potter and sleep, leading, hopefully, to a healthier, more organised, me.
Slow Down
I’m guilty of doing things far things too quickly. Eating. Reading. Talking. Walking. Yoga-ing. This summer I’m going to sloooow down. Way down. Really savour my food (both preparing and eating it). Linger over beautifully descriptive passages in the books I read. Consider what I’m going to say before I say it and not rush to the end of the sentence every time I open my mouth.Move mindfully through every pose in a yoga class. I’ve been reading up on how to lose weight with yoga and slowing down in all your poses is what all the masters recommends. I will look at the stuff around me when I’m walking, instead of trying to get from A to B as quickly as possible (without making myself late, of course). Noticing, and hopefully appreciating everything so much more.
Be More Rosie H-W
Before you’re like, “Seriously, what is she on about now?” let me explain. Rosie, as in the super-hot multi-hyphenate (actress/model/lingerie mogul), is the cover star of the May issue of Self magazine. In the cover interview she says all sorts of stuff that I kinda know already, but it was good to be reminded of, such as: 1. “You have to take risks in life and scare yourself. You have to push beyond your comfort zone in order to grow.” 2. “Working out isn’t just about staying toned or remaining a certain size. It’s about peace of mind, feeling strong and becoming the best version of yourself.” 3. “Some people measure success by how big your house is. To me, you’re successful if you’re leading a life that’s fulfilling and happy.” So, this summer, thanks to Rosie, I’m going to push myself out of my comfort zone now and again, remind myself that working out is as much for my mind as my body, and check in to see if my life is as fulfilling and happy as it could be. When in doubt, I’ll ask myself, “What would Rosie do?”
How are you doing with the healthy goals you set yourself at the beginning of the year? Do you plan to set some healthy goals for summer? Who’s your Rosie?! Do share below!
I love this! I’ve just had my first baby. Well, not just really – Juliet is almost 3 months old now. And we’ve got a summer holiday booked for mid August so getting my body in to shape is a serious goal for me. I was lucky enough not to gain too much weight whilst pregnant but I still have half a stone to lose before I’m back to my pre-pregnancy weight. And, since I’d gained a few pounds before I got pregnant I’m trying to lose a stone in total. So far, one pound down! So my goal is to exercise everyday. We walk a lot each day and every morning for the last few weeks I’ve done my Davina DVD so I’m on the right track. But it’s tough. And my body is different now!
I’m also overhauling my diet now there’s no longer an excuse to eat a chocolate bar a day! Im currently stalking all of the new clean eating gurus to see whose mantra appeals the most!
I’m really enjoying being in control of my body again. Even if the results are slow.. My goal next year is to join a gym and invest in a personal trainer but I have neither the time or the money until I return to work! I’d also really love to add pilates and yoga to my life but it’s a struggle for time. One day maybe!
Oh, and I meant to say that I struggle to relate to RHW being short and curvy and can’t think of any short curvy body role models. Someone help!
Jennifer, it sounds as if you are doing amazingly well! There are some good online yoga resources, I’m currently having a nightmare commute, but will send you some links later. It’s totally Rosie’s healthy attitude that I plan to emulate, at 5’4″ she’s not exactly a realistic body role model for me either!
Thank you! That would be great Miranda. And, Lucy, you’re very brave running. I went for a run when Juliet turned 6 weeks. 2 very slow miles and I was almost physically sick a few times! I’ve not been since!
My daughter is also almost 3 months and I’m still annoyed with my body. In spite of running 3 times weekly and eating clean for the last six weeks I still have a belly and while my legs are back to normal shape they are cellulite city. Like you, we are going on hols in late July but what I’m going to take from this post is who cares??? I’m going to enjoy my workouts, my food and my first family holiday. My body will catch up when it’s ready as long as I keep doing the right things.
Lucy, that’s exactly what I was hoping for from this post. Hope you have a wonderful holiday!
If you want to try yoga, search YouTube for ‘Yoga with Adrienne’, She does loads of beginners routines that are really nice, she also has a 30 day challenge (which I am one day into!) which looks really cool. You can do it in the comfort of your own home, for free!!
Jennifer and Lucy- it sounds like you are both doing amazingly! I was only just starting to think about exercise when my daughter was 3 months, started to feel a bit more normal exercising at around 6 months and now at nearly 9 months am somewhere close to my pre baby weight (but wondering when this cellulite is going to do one!). I’m certainly less body conscious than before though slightly envious of how motivated you are. Hope you have a great holiday!
Love Rosie’s ethos but think I need to find myself a slightly more realistic role model!
Totally agree Carly. And at 5’4″ myself, it’s Rosie’s positive, inspiring attitude that I’m looking to emulate this summer, especially the pushing myself out of my comfort zone bit!
I *so* need to do the “going to bed early” thing – it’s def the hardest though! I think everyone has their own ‘natural’ internal rhythm, it’s a shame we can’t work the hours that make the most sense for us!
On the fitness thing, I read a really good article by Kelly Brown the other day: http://sophieologie.me/2013/09/26/1200-calories/. Everything in it is just logical but I do think there is a big issue with the way that women are ‘taught’ to be fit – it’s all about looking slim rather than about maximising your body and being healthy – in whatever shape it comes! She makes the point that ‘toning’ is just another word for ‘building muscle’ but women aren’t taught that building muscle is acceptable so we end up trying ridiculous diets and worrying about food when, actually, what we need is a much more body positive outlook. Miranda, from your descriptions I think you get this right but I know I don’t so sharing this in case there are other women on here like me! 🙂
Interesting read Kate. Exercise-wise I did a box fit class on Monday and I loved how it pushed me to my absolute limit, I’m really keen to try an actual boxing class too. I’m a bit of a wimp with weights and often go for the lowest one, but as I’m getting stronger I’m going one up!
I love the attitude towards life RHW has in that interview, particularly the comment around a successful life is one that is happy and fulfiling, its so easy to get caught up comparing yourself against everyone else and feeling as though you fall far short of where you should do.
As for my healthy goals, I was hoping to hit a BMI of less than 30 before my birthday last week because I’m trying to get in a good place for fertility treatment, but I ended up 2lbs short 🙁 But then I have to weigh up that to get to the point where I am now, I’ve lost 3.5st in 5 months, I now go to the gym 3 times a week and reguarly clock up 10000 steps a day on my fitbit. I’ve acheived far more than I thought I would and I’m far healthier than I was 5 months ago. Who knows, I might even lose another 3st before Christmas 🙂
Gracie it sounds as if you’re doing wonderfully well. Good luck with getting to where you need to be for fertility treatment. If you do find you plateau, which I definitely did last year, mixing up what you do exercise-wise is so good, plus it stops the boredom factor!
I love your goal updates! I started off the year with insanity then in April started Kayla Itsines and have got to week eight this week! I have to say I am much more disciplined when it comes to getting my workouts in then ever before but my diet def needs more focus! I am much stronger and have started showing very slight definition but if I could stick to more than four healthy days in a row and avoid the fizz vino and meals out when we manage time off together I would Prob have much more results! However it is a way of life I keep reading and a long process so as long as I stick with it I’ll get there! I have just had a session with a PT to teach me how to lift weights properly as my goal is to be lean and strong not skinny. Over the next few months we are focusing on diff areas so today was shoulders next month is chest then triceps biceps and then back and legs! I have to split it into months due to cost but he is sure I will see results quickly! Fingers crossed! He promises me by the end I will be doing proper push ups rather than knee push ups and that my goal for my upper body! That and a proper pull up lol! I really recommend foam rolling for those wanting to improve cellulite! You can get them online and use them three to four times a week it really helps unstick the fat that clings to your legs/bum. That and upping the water intake to 2-3 litres a day has really helped mine (along with workouts squats and lunges) but there’s still a way to go. Kayla really recommends foam rolling and I have to say I’m converted after how quickly it helps my muscles recover after workouts! It really hurts at the time but not as much as the muscle pain you get otherwise! (sorry for the long post!) x
Foam rolling?
Haha Yep! Look it up on you tube, it’s a cylinder type thing you roll on to ease muscle soreness but it also helps cellulite! Painful as but def worth it! X
I’ve got one of those in the loft! It’s too painful!
Thanks Alex! So interesting to hear about the Kayla Itsines experience. I have the guides but haven’t actually read them yet. Massive fail! I definitely find that my skin all over my body looks smoother and more plumped when I drink more water. It’s so hard though. I try and carry a massive bottle with me at all times, that way I drink more to lessen the weight! I definitely still enjoy a drink a couple of times a week, although I’m trying to limit it to two drinks (and not large glasses of wine!). I don’t think I could ever completely give up pizzas and burgers though!
Yeah, I cant relate to Rosie either. I have a beautiful friend who inspires me, every time I meet with her, I come away with ideas of new projects, healthy eating and ideas I’d never considered. But my main mantra at the moment is ‘does it harm? Does it make me happy?’ And the choices are pretty easy from there.
And Blimey, Jennifer! 3 months old. Thats practically new born! Be kind to your self. Sounds like you’re moving mountains. When my babies were 3 months I was lucky if I knew what day it was! I think you have a very valid reason for not quite managing to fit in Pilates, yoga, a personal trainer and healthy eating! Enjoy it!
Your friend sounds so inspiring Alice – hurrah for IRL inspiration! I love your mantra too, great words to live by!
Hiiii 🙂
Just came accross this article when searching Kayla Istines workouts online.
hmmm long shop but would anyone be keen to do the 12 week challenge with me? I live in east London (shoreditch) and would love to be able to do it with others (even if we only met up 2-3 times a week or something. x