I read that somewhere very recently and am blowed if I can remember where and by whom.
On Wednesday 6th April I tested positive for COVID. On 13th April I had a negative lateral flow and on 14th was out of isolation so could walk to have my lashes done. A 5 minute walk that took me 10 and gosh how I struggled to get up the stairs of the salon.
Whether it was COVID or not was a massive wake up call. I cannot continue being this fat and unfit.
Something popped up. Not sure if it’s a scam or not but signed up anyway. Couch to Fit a free for life programme sponsored by Sport England and The National Lottery. Three sessions a week for different abilities.
There’s been something popping up on my FB for ages. I’ll come back to it later.
On Friday decided to go for a tiny walk down the cemetery hill across the new cycle path and back home up Gas Lane. It was all of 0.97km. It took 20:49minutes and pace was a shocking 21:29 min/km. I won’t lie it was hard.
Saturday is market day in Mold. Headed into town via Tesco car park, up the ramp by the Police station, which nearly killed me, and around the market. Ended up buying a massive lump of meat which the butcher cut in 2. I carried the lighter 2.5kg piece home. Another reminder the excess weight is doing me no good. So all in all 1.97km in 52:42 minutes at a pace of 26:43 min/km.
Also yesterday had the lightbulb moment. I pay for gym membership at a reduced rate of £18 due to a referral NERS (National Exercise Referral Scheme) I haven’t done anything in the gym since 31st October. Totally shocking especially as when we were in partial lockdown I was going 2-3 times a week. So referring to the picture above. Why would I want to go to another gym? Pay more. Lose my NERS place and forfeit the best PT in Mold.
Everyone knows Jim Freel is the best PT in Mold. He caters for all ages and abilities but has incredible results with middle aged ladies. He makes sense. He motivates. He provides practical and specific advice. He gets results. He pushes hard but understands limitations. He also happens to be my son.
So to hell with new gyms and programmes. I booked (via official channels) a 1 to 1 with him for today.
This morning we headed into town again. Much quieter than yesterday but I know I shouldn’t but did find it amusing to see folks queuing for Tesco and other shops that don’t open on Easter Sunday. The police station ramp was not painful at all and as we approached home I knew I’d got far more in me so continued to do my Dr Thom mile. 2.83km in 46:35minutes at a pace of 16:28 min/km. Felt good but I was definitely blowing by the time I got home.
I entered the virtual Vitality 10K which needs to be done by 8th May. I intend to do it on 1st May which will give me a week’s wiggle room. Redone the plan and it’s very doable if I’m consistent and if I’m not I winged Southport Mad Dog 10K with no training whatsoever. It nearly killed me but I did it.
What do I want to get out of this afternoon’s session? What am I willing to commit to? What is non negotiable?
I’m enjoying walking at the moment so aim to continue EVERY day. I know I can. I did it to get a medal last year. I struggle with dark nights but no excuses this time of the year. Much better for me to do it early morning but can do it after tea. Can do it in the rain but if I’m being a real wuss there’s the gym option.
Strength – I need to strengthen my core and would appreciate an exercise plan that addresses this. I need to ensure I have good form and can build from there. I’d love to incorporate my old session 2 & 3 weight training at least twice a week (don’t want to over commit.
Realistically, and this will be really hard for me, no wine on school nights. I know this will be my game changer and the ultimate goal is Alcohol Free.
Food – I’m not dieting and I’m not calorie counting. I may record via my fitness pal or in a book but my plan is to eat mindfully. Only eat when I’m physically hungry and stop when I’m no longer hungry (not full and definitely not stuffed). Nothing will be off limits but I do intend to make wise food choices and avoid white carbs.
Water – I pretty much drink 2l of fizzy water a day.
Caffeine – I only drink 2 mugs of coffee a day and both before 10am.
Sleep – cutting the alcohol should sort this but I’m under no illusions the first couple of nights will be hell.
Watch this space…
Life of Lynne 