Exercise

10 year old me hated exercise. I tried my best but my overly competitive primary school meant a lot of pressure was put on winning at games, rather than enjoying the movement or taking part. I was confined to being goal keeper at netball because apparently I was taller, but it was probably because they didn’t want me running around the pitch and scoring an own goal!

I attended dance lessons and enjoyed them but once pressure of exams started it was hard to find the time so I stopped.

Fast forward to my eay 20s, I didn’t really think I needed to exercise because at the time I thought exercise was only related to weight loss and being relatively slim I didn’t fit into that category. At the time I was working from home and walking was a great way to get out of the house but to me it didn’t count as exercise because it made me feel good and relaxed afterwards. I guess I associated exercise with embarrassment and dread. So you wouldn’t think that exercise has done wonders to help my anxiety.

I’ve tried multiple gym memberships, weight lifting, running and swimming.I cancelled my gym membership because it was always too busy and the weight section which I enjoyed the most was always packed. However, I did build up a lot of strength which I’m happy about and since cancelling my membership I have more spare cash to spend money on activities I enjoy.

I choose to go to classes because I find them a good way to challenge myself rather than go through the motions on my own. Plus it helps with technique to have guidance from a qualified person.

I go to a jumping fitness class on a Wednesday which is high intensity training on small trampolines. It is great and the best way to release the stresses from work in the middle of the week. If I do not go I feel really sluggish and stiff. Endorphins from exercise are a good mood lifter and each week I find myself feeling fitter and stronger.

Then on a Saturday I go to a Barre/ ballet class. It’s good for stretching, flexibility, balance and muscle toning. Plus there is a nice relaxation section at the end. It gets me up and about and ready for the weekend.

Rather than viewing exercise with dread, I’m grateful for the fact I can move freely and have a good level of fitness. I work for a disability charity which has definitely helped my view on exercise. It’s not about being picked for teams, it’s essential for a strong and healthy life but it has to fit around what you can do. I might not have gotten round to a marathon yet, but I’m great at stomping until my heart is content on a trampoline.

My anxiety about exercise reduced when I put those bad memories behind me. If people have time to stop and laugh at you at the gym, on the pitch or in a class they clearly are not working hard enough!