Former dancer and qualified personal trainer Adrienne @ That's My Mum gives us her top tips for ways women can lead an active and healthy lifestyle.
Consistence is key
Make sure that you've scheduled your workouts in a diary or a calendar, you're more likely to stick to your new fitness routine if you've written it down. Aim for two or three workouts per week.
Workout with friends
It's way more fun to train together and we push each other to work a bit harder. Group exercise classes and running clubs are also a great way to challenge yourself, the groups energy will spur you on.
Get the right footwear
The shape of your foot and your running style will determine the type of shoe that you need. Find the perfect pair and you'll be able to run comfortably and hopefully stay injury free. Yet another good reason to go shopping for shoes!
Add quick HIIT exercise intervals
Adding body weight exercises like squat jumps, tricep dips and planks, will transform your basic run into a mega whole body workout. The combination of cardio and strength is really effective.
Mix it up
I love running, especially in the spring and summer, but I'm also really enjoying Reformer Pilates at the moment. It's a great way to stretch as well as working on your core and back muscles. If you've been sitting at a desk all day, reformer is a brilliant way to improve your posture, plus it's really fun.
Nutrition is a mega important part of training
You need to fuel your body well to see results. Personally, I try to have a very balanced approach when it comes to food. I love to cook and so I make most of our food myself using fresh ingredients. I very rarely drink alcohol as it makes me bloated and messes up my system for days.
Pre- / Post-workout food
If I'm doing a long run or a race, my go to breakfast is a banana on toast with honey. After a workout I like to make milkshakes. I've experimented with lots of different combinations and have now perfected the best recovery shake ever! It includes cinnamon, dates and cocoa.
If you're feeling tired?
It's good to get outside and get some fresh air. Twenty minutes of brisk walking around a park will help make you feel refreshed rather than exhausted. We all have super busy lives and sometimes you need to rest, it's okay to miss a workout and give yourself a break.
Best time to train depends on your schedule
And your personality. I love to run in the morning, I start the day feeling energised and focused. I pick my son up from school most days at 3 PM so our evenings are spent at home or at after school clubs. If you want to have fun and socialise whilst you flex, then evening run clubs and classes may be better for you.
Do something that you love.
You shouldn't dread you session or feel like it's another thing on your to-do list. Find something that you really enjoy and you're more likely to stick with it.
