It’s been about six months since I properly took up swimming and you know what? I love it.
It’s taken me a long time to find a routine that I really enjoy and there have been lots of trial and errors along the way. From Zumba and gym to spinning classes and running; I’ve tried it all.
So, I made it my mission to find a routine that really worked for me. I think the trick was finding something that made me feel great in ways that had nothing to do with getting the perfect body or washboard abs. That’s when I discovered swimming and I’ve never looked back.
After a busy day in work I love being able to throw my phone into my locker and switch off for an hour. Aside from the odd cold or busy week, I’ve managed to stick to three sessions a week. And, don’t tell anyone I said this, but if I skip a week, I actually quite miss it…
Aside from the odd cold, holiday or particularly busy week, I’ve been managing to stick to three sessions a week. At first I really struggled with finding the time to squeeze it into my day, but over the past few months I think I’ve really found my groove.
Now that the warm weather has finally made its presence known, it’s becoming even easier to coax myself out of hibernation and squeeze a little bit extra out of my day. So, if you’re ready to jump on the fitness train and try something new, I thought I’d share some of the things that have helped me to stay on track.
Find something you enjoy
Since I started swimming, there’s been a shift in how I think about exercise. It’s less about achieving the perfect body and more about discovering a workout I really enjoy.
I’ve noticed that there are benefits to getting off my bum and heading to the pool that have nothing to do with carving a perfect set of abs or perfectly toned arms. For me, I love that little boost of endorphins I get on the way home, especially when I know I’ve pushed myself that little bit harder or have achieved something new. But, it can be anything from being able to spend some extra time with a friend, relaxing after work or reaching a physical challenge you’ve always wanted to conquer.
Plan it in
We’ve all been there. You’re sitting at your desk trying to think up reasons why it would be much better to go home and relax with a cup of coffee instead of going the gym. I have to admit, it’s tempting at times by planning my sessions in advance has made them much easier to stick to.
I sit down at the beginning of each week, look at what I’ve got going on and see where I can fit a workout in. I’ll also pack my swimming kit the night before, so it’s ready and waiting for me to take to work.
Plus, it’s much less tempting to pass up a session when your gym bag is glaring at you from under your desk…
Invest in some good kit There’s something to be said for good gym gear, especially if you’re planning to go long term.
At first, the idea of stepping into a gym or freezing cold swimming pool felt really intimidating. I found that investing in a good gym kit really helped to conquer that.
I’m not talking about spending crazy amounts of money, some of the Ivy Park forTopshop stuff is really nice and doesn’t fall apart once it’s been through the wash a couple of times. I also really like Under Armour, especially their tops. This is the one I’m currently lusting after.
I’m wearing