Get up and go
With all this thought of holidays, I’ve inevitably come to the conclusion that I would like to tone up and at least be able to wear some shorts this summer, even if I’m not up to a bikini. Or even a one-piece, but I digress. Cosmetic surgery is not an option for me as I simply think I’m too much of a wimp to handle the inevitable pain that comes after all the anaesthetics and ‘proper’ painkillers wear off.
There’s only one thing for it, people. Diet and exercise. Gulp. Those who’ve met me will know I’m not being harsh if I describe myself as being built for comfort rather than speed. I’m a big girl. And I do like my food. After all, that birthday cake didn’t eat itself. So this is a slightly scary prospect.
A couple of months ago I gave up my gym membership because I was too busy to get there, and the creche times they had no longer worked for me. I miss going now, because I used to love the Pilates and Core classes, and had a fellow mum I’d meet up with and chat while we paced the treadmill together, while our sons played together under the watchful eyes of Fateha and Aisha. But it was no good. Something had to give and that was it.
Further down the line and I’m wondering what to do. Jogging is a non-starter. Not only would it ruin my knees, it makes my sciatica flare up and simply isn’t worth it. Walking would be a start, but not enough. I’ve looked for local Pilates and Core classes I could join in, assuming hubby was able to babysit, but I’m coming up empty-handed.
What do other busy people do about this? Hell, what do other working mums do about this? I’ve always shied away from the whole personal trainer or fitness instructor thing, but is it time to reconsider? After all, they should be prepared to work when I can fit them in, I can choose the kind of activity I like, and they can both keep the process fresh and keep kicking me to make sure I don’t lose motivation.
The idea is not unappealing, but I’m not a starlet, and I’m not vastly rich, and I can’t help but find the very mention of the words ‘personal trainer’ conjures images from the 1980s of Madonna jogging in the park with her bodyguards and personal trainer. In the absence of other ideas, I decided to ask a friend, who actually runs training courses for fitness instructors and personal trainers. Apparently I’m not alone in my attitude.
I was amazed to discover you can hire a PT for just £20 per hour, and that it can be just once a month, if I want, rather than needing to be three times a week every week. Better yet, I might even be able to club together with a friend. So. Who fancies joining me? Time to post another wish…
