January: Small Wins, Big Results and a Month of Progress

Challenges, growth and self-reflection

What a month January has been! Full of challenges, growth, and some much-needed self-reflection. Looking back, I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, even when things didn’t go perfectly. It’s a reminder that showing up counts, especially when it feels tough.

Consistency Over Perfection

If there’s one thing I’ve learned this month, it’s that consistency is key. Whether it’s been getting to my workouts, taking care of family, or finding time for myself, I’ve realised something important. Small, consistent steps really do add up. I could have used the snow as an excuse to stay inside this month. Instead, I bundled up and got to the gym. My schedule was packed. There was the occasional chaos, like squeezing Cyrus into his clubs after missing the online booking. But I still made it work. Life isn’t always perfect, but making the effort to show up is what truly matters.

Listening to My Body

My Achilles tendonitis definitely made its presence known this month. I tried a few HIIT classes, but the impact was too much. That’s when I decided to switch things up with Rhythm at David Lloyd Newcastle. I absolutely love it. The music energises me, and the steady pedaling gives me a challenging workout without aggravating my Achilles. It’s quickly become my go-to, giving me the intensity I want while being gentle on my joints. It’s made a huge difference in keeping me motivated.

I also made a few small additions to my routine that have really paid off. Westlab Bath Salts have helped soothe my Achilles after tough workouts. Soaking in a warm bath with the Dead Sea salts has helped ease the tension and inflammation in my tendon. It’s a simple, restorative step. It has made a noticeable difference in my recovery. I’ll definitely be continuing with this throughout February.

Boosting Recovery with Vitamin C

In addition to my workouts, I’ve been focusing on my recovery with supplements. Innopure’s Vitamin C has played a huge role as the product doesn’t contain fillers. The extra support for my immune system and overall wellbeing has been so helpful. It’s not just about working out hard. It’s also about recovering properly. I’m grateful for the boost from the Vitamin C, especially when I don’t have time to squeeze lemons!

Pushing Boundaries

I’ve always believed in pushing my boundaries, no matter my age. This month, I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried three Cyclone Spin classes for the first time. It was tough, but so much fun! Yes, I made a mistake with my FTP settings (lesson learned!), but it was all part of the experience. Trying new things, even at almost 50, is key to staying engaged and motivated. If you’re feeling unsure about trying something new, just know it’s never too late – you might surprise yourself!

Self-Care and Small Wins

It’s easy to forget self-care when life gets busy, but January has taught me how important it is. Between workouts, family, and work, I found time for quiet moments. Sometimes it was a hot bath with my bath salts to ease my Achilles. Other times, it was curling up with the cat for a little peace. Despite the chaos, I managed to show up for my group exercise classes. Those small wins – getting through a tough session or simply making time for myself add up.

Looking Ahead: No Excuses, Just Progress

As January ends, I’m feeling proud of the progress I’ve made. It’s not about perfection or weight loss, but about showing up and sticking with it. I’ve learned that even on the tough days, every little step counts. So, if you’ve been struggling with consistency, just know you’re not alone. It’s normal to have moments where things don’t go as planned. The key is to keep going, one small step at a time.

February is here, and I’m ready to keep moving. Whatever the challenge, I know I can handle it. So, what small win are you celebrating today? Keep showing up for yourself – you’ve got this!

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