HEALTH
THE FIT FILES
We round up the latest exercise trends and tips
MAKE a move
WHAT IS IT, EXACTLY?
Barre class
No longer restricted to pricey boutique studios, these ballet-inspired classes have become more widely available at gyms. They’re also often fused with extra fitness elements to give you the best workout possible. Classes vary, but most combine ballet, yoga and Pilates moves, and use equipment such as weights, stretch bands and balance balls, as well as a fixed barre. WHY DO IT? Classes are designed to strengthen, lengthen and tone, while promoting balance and flexibility. Some offer more gentle toning, while others aim to burn fat. HOW CAN I TRY IT? fitnessfirst.co.uk (SoulBody Barre), nuffieldhealth.com (BarreConcept), virginactive.co.uk (Barre powered by bootybarre)
for good measure
WORDS AVIVA ATTIAS PHOTOS GETTY IMAGES
Tracking the effects of your workout means you’re more likely to achieve your health goals, such as reducing cholesterol or blood pressure, found Nuffield Health. The biggest winner? Waist size. Nuffield members who had three health checks a year saw a 79 per cent greater loss round their middle than those who had two. Waist size is easy to check – all you need is a tape measure (visit bhf.org.uk/bmi for tips). Or ask your GP for available tests.
By following government advice on exercise (at least 2·5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise per week), you might be helping to reduce the damaging effects of alcohol, a largescale study on UK adults has found. Comforting news – especially after any festive indulgences. Visit drinkaware.co.uk for the latest alcohol guidelines.
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YOU CAN
do it!
If anyone knows how to drum up the motivation to exercise, it’s a double Olympic silver medallist. We asked track cyclist Becky James for her top training tips:
flexi-plan
Q&A WHAT SHOULD I EAT BEFORE A WORKOUT FOR A HEALTHY DOSE OF ENERGY? ‘For a cardio class such as Zumba, have a cereal bar to fuel those moves. One with nuts will provide protein and stave off hunger, too. For short high-intensity classes, opt for a protein-rich snack, such as Greek yogurt. For a run, try a muesli and raisin mix, as your body will need some carbs. For yoga, it’s important to drink lots of water. Have your snack about an hour before.’ ALEXIS POOLE, NUTRITIONIST AT SPOON GURU, A DIET-SHOPPING APP
Schedule your routine, and stay flexible so you can stick to it. If the weather’s really bad, for instance, I take my session inside.
Don’t PUT IT OFF
Whatever time you plan to exercise, keep to it. The longer you delay, the less likely you are to go.
TELL A FRIEND Simply sharing your goals with your partner or housemate means they can encourage you when your enthusiasm flags.
Know your reason Whether it’s to train for a challenge, or just to feel better, keep coming back to why you’re exercising. I tell myself I’ll get the best out of my effort if it’s consistent. 93