Read Kelly's tips from June 2011 here:
To run or not to run?
So when I'm out running I have a few little routes I go on. Each time I know where I'm going to struggle, which parts of the course are tough and I try and ensure I get a little bit further each time.
One route I do is what I call my average workout. It's about 30 mins (under on a good day) but I can't run the whole way YET. It goes off road and I always try and blame the weather for when I'm finding it tough!
So as I said, through the month of June my workouts haven't been the best, but on this particular day I set off on the route and really struggled. My legs felt heavy I couldn't get my breathing right and it started to rain. I kept stopping and starting more than normal and as I caught myself walking, I thought to myself: "Why have you come and done this workout, what was I wanting to get out of it???"
My answer was:
- to get out in the fresh air (which I was).
- to lift my heartrate and get active for 30 mins at a moderate level (I was and working at a high intensity)
- burn off a few calories.
Now I'm refering to the last point because I know a lot of us exercise to maintain or lose bodyweight. Well I just need to remind you or if you didn't already know.
If I walked the course I'd burn the same amount of calories as if I ran it - the difference being it would just take me longer.
The intensity wouldn't be as hard so I'd feel more comfortable and I'd spend longer outside in the fresh air, so it was a winner. Bearing this in mind, I carried on walking a lot more than normal, but in the end I took a longer path so all in all a good 1hr 30 mins was spent keeping active at a light level - result!
So if you are having an off day, bring your intensity down or change what you do, and you'll probably end up having a better session whatever it maybe :)
Earlier tips in June 2011
Got a pesky summer cold?
I haven't been feeling too perky this month and there are a lot of those annoying summer colds around - lots of my colleagues are coughing and sneezing all over me at work!
If you're not feeling 100% though, is it better to rest and not exercise or do we think training will sweat it out and get rid of it?
My advice would be:
- if your symptoms
are from the neck up I think it's fine to train. So if you have a fuzzy head and the sniffles, then some sort of exercise will most likely make you feel better. Ensure you keep hydrated and continue eating properly. If you are a little off colour, this is the perfect time to vary your intensity level, so maybe go to a Yoga class or do a longer light c.v session. Maybe do an endurance toning session so you can still be active and will better for continuing to do something.
- if your symptoms are from the neck and below, including chesty coughs, I would advise rest. It's good for our bodies to have a complete break, especially if our muscles feel achy. Feverish symptoms mean it's time to take it easy. Your body at this time is busy working trying to fight and shift whatever you may have got hold of, so the last thing you need is a crazy workout! Physical activity should be minimal, so you can keep your immune system strong. Again, take on the correct nutrients and drink plenty of fluids.
When you return from the rest you'll be raring to go and will probably carry out a better workout! Hope you are feeling better soon.
Kelly :)
Email Kelly at: kelly.potts@kirklees.gov.uk
