Summer is here (although someone needs to remind the weather!) and many of us are planning a holiday in the coming weeks. This often means our usual exercise routines are put on hold and it can be tempting to just let it all go and overindulge. If you do decide to ditch the healthy habits for a couple of weeks that is absolutely fine, it might be daunting picking it all up again but with a little determination and effort you’ll soon be back on track. A break is as good as a rest and if you need a break from exercise then you should definitely take one. Taking a holiday from exercise allows your body to fully recover, you can concentrate on getting some much needed sleep and avoid injuries caused by over-exercising.

On the other hand, if you’re an active person and love exercising then suddenly stopping exercise can have a negative effect, leaving your body feeling stiff and your mind racing. Thankfully, just because you can't attend your usual exercise class or gym doesn’t mean there aren't plenty of ways you can keep fit and active while still enjoying your holiday.
Here are a few options to help keep you in tip top condition:

• Local walks/hikes- take advantage of your new surroundings and take a walk around the local area. Make it a bit more of a challenge and up the pace a bit or add an extra mile to your walk. There is still time to sponsor Amanda for the Mighty Hike she is doing in September- find out more here.
• Swimming- if there are local beaches or lakes nearby why not take a dip and enjoy some open water swimming? Join the Open Water Swimming Facebook group for tips and advice on staying safe.
• Cycling- If you are staying relatively local you could take your bike with you and explore the local area by two wheels. If you’re going a bit further afield or can’t take your own bike you could hire a bike for a few days. Put off by steep hills? E-bikes are a great option, allowing you to keep active while also giving you a much needed power boost when tackling the inclines!
• Running- all you need are your running shoes! Clear your mind and get the blood pumping with a cardio boost.

However, if you decide to spend your time when you’re on holiday this summer, be sure to relax and savour the break. The past year has taken its toll on all of us and we all deserve some quality self-care-  What are you are planning to do with the rest of your summer? Maybe just taking it easy and enjoying a rest? Let us know and post a pic on our Facebook page.

The Government recently announced that gyms, leisure centres and exercise classes can now begin operating again (subject to local restrictions). This is fantastic news, the lockdown has had huge ramifications across the globe- not least for everyone’s mental health and fitness, so being able to get out to our regular exercise classes and gyms is like a ray of light! It’s well known that physical activity boosts our mental well-being by releasing feel-good chemicals and endorphins.
 
During lockdown many of us tried to make the most of local walks if we were able and online groups were great to keep up with familiar exercise routines but now that restrictions are being relaxed we can start to return to physical classes and gyms. Here at Smart Fitt, Amanda has worked hard to make sure the return to class will be as safe as possible.

​Measures such as strict maximum number of participants in each class and no equipment sharing mean that social distancing can be maintained throughout and that attendees can feel safe. We will continue to monitor new regulations set out by the Government and update you accordingly via our website and social media channels. Please check back regularly to ensure you have up-to-date information.
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Personal Training
Great for a personalised workout, you can choose either 1-1 or 2-1 training sessions with Amanda. If you don’t yet feel ready to face the gym or you lack confidence, a personal 1-1 training session is a brilliant way to get fit, get great nutritional advice and all at a time convenient to you in a spacious, open plan studio gym. 2-1 sessions are ideal for couples and friends who wish to train together in a structured way.
The sessions are all designed to suit your specific goals and needs while making sure to match your fitness level and ability.
Contact Amanda to find out what sessions are available (some daytime places currently available)
 
Virtual Classes
If you are still shielding or not quite ready to start up the classes again then the virtual classes are a great way to keep active and motivated. With full, detailed instructions and clear videos to follow you can ensure you’re getting a good workout without even leaving your home.