Ali Ward used to be very fit but suddenly she realised that at 31yrs of age she could no longer rely on her fitness from youth. Maybe you can identify with Ali’s situation: ‘I’d had an active childhood, exercised up until my mid-twenties. So it was with surprise, and a bit of shame, when I realised how unfit I’d become around 2 years ago. I walked up a hill in the Lake District and my heart was pounding for a good 5 or more minutes afterwards. I thought “I’m not even 30 never mind 60!” It took me another year to do something about it.
So it was with excitement, trepidation and some Olympic fever that I joined SE Fitness. I began to forget about what I used to be able to do and focussed on what I was achieving.
I haven’t looked back. Yes it was hard work at first but everyone was in the same boat and the group leaders were patient and encouraging. There’s a real feeling of camaraderie in all the groups.
When it got dark, and poured with rain, (and snow) we kept turning up, others more often than me, but truly I felt better for making the effort and always finished with a smile on my face. I think exercising with others or at least with a structure helps me and a lot of other people.’
So Ali’s advice is: ‘now the sun’s shining why don’t you have a go at moving and doing something? A walk once a week finishing in the coffee shop? Try something you used to love or something new. Lots of places offer free ‘taster’ sessions and with more and more activities offered through Leisure Centres, exercise needn’t be expensive. Sutton Park and the canal paths are free! ‘