Post by Gluco Ambassador, Lucy Boggis.
Throughout the autumn and going into the winter, staying motivated to train can be such a challenge, especially when you’re trying to workout by yourself (although see here for my previous blog on how to make the most of exercising alfresco before the winter sets in). Group exercise is one of my secret weapons when it comes to keeping myself motivated and excited to go to each workout. So, I thought I would share with you all some of my favourite group training sessions that I personally use to keep me fit all the way to the summer to hopefully give you a bit of inspiration on what to try for yourselves.
Firstly, CrossFit
My first group exercise/training has to be CrossFit. Now I don’t only do this in the winter, I do it all year round, but for those of you stuck for what group workout to get stuck into, this would be my top go to!! When I started CrossFit, I couldn’t believe the amount of support, laughs and full on killer workouts it had. I fell totally in love with it. There is no judgement at CrossFit. Everyone is in the same boat and no matter if you’ve been doing it for ages or it’s your first session, it will always challenge you. That is why everyone supports each other but it’s also what gets you hooked. A combination of seeing results, meeting new friends and always being challenged, makes you want more. Therefore through the winter days, you will be itching to get to CrossFit and not have time to want to go and sit on the sofa and feel unmotivated.
So what is CrossFit…… get looking online at where your local CrossFit Box is and find out for yourself. You WILL NOT regret it.
Up next, Spinning
I know that spinning has been around for yonks now and is very popular. But the reason it’s popular is because it works. It’s a fab workout that gets you sweating and the upbeat music and awesome instructors don’t give you time to be lazy and faff about in the gym, which is something that may happen if you are there by yourself. You don’t have to think up what training to do or try and motivate yourself, because as soon as you step foot into that spinning studio, you don’t need to think, you just need to listen to the beats, work hard and enjoy the droplets of sweat pouring down your face. Get booked into a class, give it a whirl and the workouts are no longer than an hour, so just think, sweat for an hour and feel motivated and upbeat for the whole day. Brilliant!
Last recommendation has to be Squash
Such an epic game to play. It gets you sweaty, works your entire body, (areas of your body you didn’t even know you have will be hurting) you can be super competitive or just a bit of fun with a friend. And the best thing is, it’s inside, so NO excuses for it being bad weather and not being able to workout.
I actually play squash with my husband. We are both pretty “below average” but because we are both of a similar awful standard, we can have a laugh, be a bit competitive, but also give each other a run for our money. It’s quality time together and as we play on a Friday, we can turn it into a meal out afterwards and start the weekend properly together.
So, all you need to do is find someone who’s willing to dart about the court with you for an hour, sweat, probably throw their racket to the ground at how many times they dive, but yet still miss the ball, and who wants to laugh but still get fit. What have you got to lose? (Other then maybe your pride if you’re as terrible as me and my hubby)
So there you have it, my top three group training sessions to try while the winter draws in and the motivation starts to take a turn for the worst. They are all absolutely fantastic and will get your heart rate up, and your workout mojo back! And for an extra added oomph pre workout or to help refuel after exercise don’t forget to pack your GLUCO. Maybe even take some GLUCO Tabs to share with your new group of friends and workout buddies!