As my career took off, my relationship with exercise became fraught.
If your sole focus is on how exercise makes you look – rather than how it makes you feel – then it can be toxic. In my twenties, I used to think I had to be at the brink of passing out or losing a litre of sweat at the gym to feel like I’d a decent workout, and I had an unhealthy habit of checking the scales straight afterwards. And in my head, I felt so judged.
In my thirties, though, I’ve been on a journey to rediscover the joys of getting active.
I was so delighted to get involved with my local This Girl Can class in Newcastle – a new group exercise class from Sport England’s legendary campaign and EMD UK (the national governing body for group exercise). I was really nervous going in – like so many women, imposter syndrome reared its ugly head. Clearly I’m not the only one. Sport England’s research shows that, of women who don’t currently take part in group exercise, over a third (35 per cent) say not feeling fit enough prevents them from joining in. And a third (33 per cent) are held back by body image insecurities. I can relate to both of these barriers.
I get bored quite quickly which is why I love a varied class – and we know now how important it is to find an activity you love doing.
But I had nothing to fear. It’s a no judgment class where making mistakes is celebrated – the fact you are being active is something to be proud of. The classes are designed to be fun, where getting it wrong is totally alright!
I love group classes; it takes me back to being part of a team and the feeling that we’re all doing it together – camaraderie without competition.
I get just as much out of a workout that’s in a relaxed environment, and I enjoy being around like minded women. It sounds clichéd but you genuinely do find yourself saying at the end of it, “Wow – this girl can!” It’s a really good stepping-stone into building your confidence to exercise in front of other people.
Who cares if we’re not the fastest, or if our legs rub together on the treadmill.
Now, I walk into the gym, and instead of worrying that everyone’s going to be staring at me, I put my headphones in and let the self-doubt and judgment slip away. Life is about joy – and getting active should be part of a joyful and healthy life where you’re not worrying about what others are thinking. Go and live your best life, because life’s too short.
For more information visit – www.thisgirlcanclasses.co.uk
