Women's Fitness March 2021

January and February can be tricky months to navigate at the best of times – the cold weather coupled with reduced daylight hours can leave even the most optimistic among us feeling a bit low and demotivated. This year, with further lockdowns to contend with, you may well have found it even more challenging. If you’ve been struggling, know that you’re not alone. Remember to take it one day at a time (there’s no need to worry about the coming month or year – focusing on the next few hours is enough), and be gentle with yourself. After all, we’ve been through a lot over the past 12 months! If you’re struggling with motivation at the start of each day, check out our tips on how to create a positive…

Christine Bailey Christine is a performance nutritionist, chef, author and keen runner. She runs online programmes and works with athletes.christinebailey.co.uk Elle Fox Elle is a Naturopath, a College of Naturopathic Medicine graduate and microbiome specialist with 30 years’ experience in complementary medicine.naturopathy-uk.com Stuart Mailer Stuart is a consultant physiotherapist who graduated in Physiotherapy and Sports Therapy. He specialises in knee, foot and ankle injuries.stuartmailerphysio.com Eve Boggenpoel Eve has practised yoga and meditation for 25 years. She trained as a yoga teacher at Triyoga and is a qualified homeopath. She also practises tai chi. Gemma Hurditch Gemma is a Naturopath and lecturer at the College of Naturopathic Medicine. Gemma is also a Medical Herbalist and Nutritional Therapist. Naturopathy-uk.com Josephine Perry Josephine is a sport psychologist. She educates those who want to…

NEW VIRTUAL GOAL This year, rather than worrying about losing weight, I have chosen to change my focus and have entered a series of virtual races – my goal is to run 65 miles a month for all of the year. By the end of the year, I expect to be fitter and healthier and perhaps even a bit slimmer, but mostly I’m doing it for the sense of achievement. Your magazine has inspired me too – keep up the good work! Sarah Dee, via email HEALTHY SNACKS I really enjoyed your recent article Change Your Food Mindset (January issue). It is so crucial to have a healthy relationship with food. I am not the only one who has guilt around the treats I eat, especially over the festive season.…

STRENGTH SOLUTION I received a set of kettlebells for Christmas and was uncertain how to get the most out of any exercises I did with them. Thanks to your helpful workout In the Swing Of It (January issue), I know exactly how! I like the fact that there are tonnes of awesome benefits that come from doing the exercises, such as improving overall strength, core power, balance, flexibility and coordination. All this while burning fat and sculpting healthy and lean muscles too. I was grateful for all the workout images. Now I’m working on all the exercises and I’m not disappointed. I feel confident that the training is targeting my entire body. Thank you! Abigail George, Denbigh Abigail wins a pair of Kaiman Exo goggles by Aqua Sphere which have…

‘Yes. I used to exercise twice a week but since lockdown I run daily.’ Sue Smith ‘Yes, because I want to make sure I’m as healthy as possible. During the pandemic, we need to ensure we have a strong immune system to fend off the virus.’ Andrea Lane ‘I exercise regularly anyway, about four to five times per week, so I’ve just carried on doing that – lifting weights and cycling. It has been easier to find time to work out.’ Daniela Smith…

FEELING GOOD If you’re spending more time working and working out from home, you need comfortable, multi-functional clothing that performs well in online yoga classes and looks stylish during impromptu Zoom meetings. Asquith London’s latest collection of versatile tops, bottoms and jumpsuits is made from super soft bamboo and organic cotton for an amazing fit and feel, so it’s perfect for Pilates, lounging and living in. We love this Smooth You Tee, £55, with a fitted waistband so it never rides up, and these Be Calm Pants, £79, with their relaxed yet flattering shape; asquithlondon.com Why wear bamboo? • It’s three times more absorbent than cotton to keep you dry and comfortable. • Anti-odour properties mean clothes stay fresher for longer and need less washing. • This super-sustainable and silky…