Get Fit Feel Epic- my thoughts

Aloha, hope you're well this cold and randomly snowy Tuesday night. 

One of my fave blogs (I sound like a suck up but it's true) Eating Like a Horse has posted the deets of a competition in collaboration with Money Supermarket to win a bunch of groovy fitness accessories. Let's face it, I need all the help I can get to get my arse in gear, so I decided to get involved. And actually, this ties in well with my last post, where I had a wee muse about how to boost my fitness and workouts.

You may have noticed me constantly whinging about hating the cold weather and the things it makes hard to do. I haven't been for a run in weeks. I won't blah on about it, but I've found it hard to stay motivated and on track. So here is a jolly list of ideas and tips for things that have got me moving in the past, and things that may keep me going in the future.

Racing

Last September I entered my first 10k race, because of encouragement from Boy's mum, and loved it. And I didn't die! I have done two more, plus a 5k (you can read my race recaps on the 'places to go' page).

Biting the bullet and signing up to do a race was the best motivation ever for me. I had about a month to get myself sorted and I went for it in regards to running.

I am now considering signing up for a half marathon. I hope the fear of those long and lonely 13.something miles will get me moving.

Funky new gear

There is nothing like a crisp carrier bag of fresh new clothes and shoes to get you out of the door.

I personally love Nike. The ticks make you run faster, and I always love the look of their clothes. H&M have some cracking, cheap sportswear too.

Workout clothes are also super comfy for lounging about in, especially leggings.

Random spurts of activity

Today in the playground I challenged a bunch of kids to a race and I ended up running around like a fly with a burnt bum for the rest of lunch and the whole of afternoon play. This is but an example of how I want to keep moving and incorporate bursts of activity into my day. Looking like a mad person chasing poor children isn't necessary, but you catch my drift.

Strength

Argh, the devil. Je n'aime pas.

I got these piddly weights to use with the 30 Day Shred, and now, to fit in with my 'random spurts of activity' plan, I am using them to do curls, rows and other exercises I do not know the name of while I am waiting for the microwave to ping or the kettle to boil. Soon it will be toned o'clock, I'm sure...

I know, I need to sort it out and get a kettlebell or something.

Mixing it up

I never thought I would be the person who took a dance class with her free will intact. Let alone someone who attended regularly, enjoyed it and is passably good at it. But that's me, and I love Zumba.

I used to play Ultimate Frisbee at University, and if there is a cardio activity that is more knackering, I haven't tried it. Perhaps I will be brave and join a local grown ups club. It's intimidating to rock up to a practice full of strangers, especially as I haven't thrown a disc for ages, but this summer I hope I take the opportunity.

A good ol' fashioned family frisbee game

I used to do yoga a few years back, and keep saying I want to get going again.

Over the summer I really enjoyed going swimming a few times a week in the local outdoor pool. I love to swim and like how it makes me feel. During winter it's less appealing, but it's great to have the option of going.

The pool did not beat the Canadian rivers and lakes. They were heaven.

At the moment I am well up for getting a Powerhoop and starting classes with that. Or just hooping at home, whatever.

I tried the gym for a while, and it was OK. It is certainly the answer to my winter wussiness. If I was a bit richer I would certainly join. They had a steam room, for frick's sake.

One summer I had a go at surfing. And when I was younger my sole hobby/exercise was riding and looking after my pony. I would love to ride again. I would love love love to try playing polo!

My point is, grab a chance when it comes your way, enjoy something with friends or just grit your teeth and try a new club or activity. If you hate it, no biggie, but if you fall in love, you're made.

Skiing

This is a weird one. When I am skiing I am often thinking 'I fucking hate skiing' or 'this is how I am going to die'. But it is also ridiculously addictive on account of the near-death-induced adrenaline. And it is so tiring and makes you ache and is clearly great exercise.

Haha. I am the super special one in the pink hat.

Snow walking also makes me beat, as does sledging and general frolicking. Never underestimate frolicking.

Walking 

(Oh, I am so wistful for when the world is like the picture below again).

This is my total fave. If all else fails I will at the very least get outside for a 30 minute walk with the dogs. I like walking really fast and getting my heart rate up.Sometimes I feel like I could just walk forever.

Having dogs is a great motivator, and having them knocking about always makes the trip more entertaining.

Walking can also be incorporated into shopping, which suits me fine.

I get the bottom line is moving about, however you do it, is what it's all about. Be it hoovering for an hour, playing Just Dance or chucking a frisbee about, it's all valid. I am just aiming to have fun with it all and not beat myself up if I miss a few days.

Keepin' it casual, y'all ;)

xxx