February: Sweat, Strength and Laughter

As I approach 50, I’ve realised something important. The journey to a healthier, stronger me isn’t just about hitting the gym hard. It’s about balancing fitness and family. Most importantly, it’s about showing up for myself and no one else every single day. February has been a month of consistency, progress, and fun, with a few lessons in grace along the way.

Rhythm and Resilience

Let’s kick off with the gym. If you keep up with my Instagram posts, you know by now that Rhythm (Spin) has been my happy place. I’ve felt this way since the start of the year. This month, I’ve been loving the energy and release I get from those classes. Ivana Spagna’s Call Me had me singing and moving like a crazy woman at the back of the class! I’ve been committed to pushing myself harder. I turn up the resistance on the bike even on the days when I’m tired.

Resistance Training – Stronger Every Day

This month, I mainly focused on resistance training. Three times a week, I’ve been adding more weight and pushing myself further. Assisted pull-ups, shoulder presses, rows, and leg extensions – my body is stronger, and I can feel it. I’ve had to be mindful of my Achilles tendinitis. Therefore, I’ve been committed to 10 minutes of stretching every day. I also do calf raises daily. This dedication has paid off in preventing further injury. It’s a reminder that strength doesn’t just come from lifting weights. It comes from caring for my body in every way.

Yoga and Mindfulness – Finding Balance

Yoga was another highlight of the month. I spent some quality time with my amazing colleague Catherine for a peaceful yoga session. Moments like these remind me to take care of myself. They also prompt me to support those around me. Weekly lunchtime yoga brings balance to my life, offering a perfect contrast to the intense energy of the gym. The calm, focused practice helps me stay grounded.

Meal Prep and Healthy Routines

Meal prep has been a game-changer this month. Every Saturday, I’ve made a plan, and it’s made my weekly shop so much easier. I know that I’ve got healthy meals ready to go. This has helped me stick to my goals. My family’s support makes it easier too and I’m working on being kinder to myself. It’s a journey and I’m still learning to accept the things I can’t change or do. One example is star jumps, but I just focus on the things I can do.

Fun with Family: The Photo Creator Pop Colour Digital Camera

This month, I found joy in some unexpected moments with my family. Cyrus and his little friend had an absolute blast with the Photo Creator Pop Colour Digital Camera. We loved watching him and his friend capture all sorts of funny and creative moments. It’s such a simple idea based on the old Polaroid camera. It made me realise how important it is to embrace these little moments. Whether it’s taking silly pictures or just sharing laughter. Watching Cyrus add “wanted” labels to H and I was priceless! It’s a reminder that even as we get older, it’s important to stay young at heart and enjoy the fun. He set the camera up without my aid which was great too.

A Day of Fun and Challenges: EXIT Escape Room & MyDehliStreetFood

Of course, February wasn’t all about the gym and fitness. I also had an amazing day filled with adventure and teamwork. The highlight was definitely the horror escape room at EXIT, The Attic in Newcastle. We were handcuffed to a bench. I have to say, the teamwork was invaluable. Clear communication and leadership also played a crucial role. It was an intense experience. It really got me thinking about how we work together as a team. This applies both in fitness and life. Sometimes, it’s not just about the individual efforts but the collaboration and trust we build with others.

After that, we wrapped up the day with a well-deserved feast at MyDehli Street Food. Nothing beats a good meal after an action-packed day. The food was delicious, and it was the perfect way to unwind and bond with work friends.

Hydration with Style: The b.box 1L Insulated Flip Top Bottle

Lastly, I want to talk hydration. The b.box 1L insulated flip top bottle has become my new favourite gym accessory. It keeps my water cold for up to 46 hours and I love the colour. It’s perfect for my long weekend gym sessions. It’s also great for busy days at work. The flip-and-sip lid is so convenient – no fuss. Plus, the leak-proof design means I can throw it in my bag without worrying about spills. It’s compact, easy to carry, and available in the cutest colours. I’m loving how functional it is. It’s even been admired in the gym! H loved the bottle so much, he decided to invest in a ‘Lime Time’ matching water bottle! The stainless steel straws are brilliant too, they wash really easily in the dishwasher. All in all, these are the best water bottles we’ve ever had. You can buy them from Amazon.

Here’s to more wins, more joy, and more strength as I move forward. Drop a comment or tag me in your posts. Let’s keep lifting each other up, on and off the mat.