Frequently asked questionS

(these are a snapshot of the many questions I get asked on a daily basis)

I have tried so many diets and they don’t work for me anymore

All off the things that worked for us previously refuse to co operate as we get older. We are complex women and the stresses we have with family etc need a more gentle approach. Strict diets and extreme exercise don’t work for us anymore, we need a balance of good food, moving(not nessisarily exercise in the formal sense) relaxation and an understanding of our bodies.

I am unfit, overweight and well over 40, what can I do?

Starting is the hardest part, taking small steps and learning about what you enjoy to eat, relax, move are the most important elements. Just trying things out and finding what makes you feel good is THE biggest step you can take.

I don’t like exercise and I don’t want to follow a strict diet, is there any hope for me getting my body the way I want it to be?

As much as this may surprise you, I don’t like any of that either! In my opinion, strict diets don’t work because it’s not something you van keep up long term. Extreme exercise doesn’t work either. I have tried it all on myself and THE most important thing you can do is take it slowly, learn new habits that benefit you and listen to your body and do what makes you feel great health wise. The rest will follow on quickly (and often before you realise what’s happened) Start small and see where it takes you.

How long do I need to work out for?

This depends on your fitness levels, what type of training you’re doing and what intensity you’re training at. Just remember, something is always better than nothing. If you only have 10 minutes, I can show you how to maximise those 10 minutes.

Do I need to exercise every day?

A good workout week doesn’t necessarily mean training every day. Three to four gym or home workouts each week is enough if you work as hard as you can in each session. Try to balance the week with a mix of cardio, HIIT, strength and yoga or Pilates. However, when it comes to being active you should aim to move as much as you can every day – whether that’s with brisk walking, jogging, swimming, gardening or putting your all into the housework!

Is working out in the morning better for you?

You should exercise at a time that suits you and your body. There’s no evidence to suggest that an early morning workout is better for you, but some people are just more efficient at this time. You’ll get results regardless of the time of day, as long as it works for you.

You should exercise at a time that suits you and your body. There’s no evidence to suggest that an early morning workout is better for you, but some people are just more efficient at this time. You’ll get results regardless of the time of day, as long as it works for you.
 

What type of training do I need to do to lose weight?

Generally, cardio training such as swimming or running will burn the most calories per session. Weight training will help you burn more calories over the course of the day – muscle burns more calories at rest than other tissues, including fat, and therefore speeds up your resting metabolism.

  How does exercise help mental health?

Research has shown that exercise can help to reduce stress, improve your self-confidence, alleviate anxiety and improve concentration. Plus, it releases endorphins, which encourage feelings of happiness.

Be careful not to over train, as this can put your body and mind under stress, raising levels of the stress hormone cortisol.