Do You Need Motivation?

‘Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement’ – Helen Keller

During this lockdown period its essential to look after our minds as well as our bodies. Aside from the obvious health benefits which are widely known, we don’t really concentrate on the psychological benefits of exercise. The added confidence and inner strength gained from being fitter and stronger has a great psychological impact. This should give us greater motivation to exercise even more. In addition, exercise can also:

Improve sleep patterns
Reduce stress levels
Increases energy levels
Release natural ‘feel good’ endorphins.

Who does not feel stronger and more confident than when they have achieved a goal in the gym or in a class? Why not work towards a new goal to give you daily motivation to continue to work out, run, cycle or lift weights!

Pilates Challenge- The One Hundred

The purpose of this exercise is to increase core strength and stamina.

Challenge 1
Inhale and connect core muscles. Float one knee at a time directly above the hip, shin parallel to ceiling. There should be a 90ᵒ angle at the knee. Hold for up to 10 breaths.

Challenge 2
Float both legs one at a time up to the same position, then peel head and shoulders from the mat. Hold for up to 10 breaths.

Challenge 3

Extend legs as in picture and hold for up to 10 breaths.

Careful! Maintain neutral position of spine and don’t let the lower back creep away from the mat as you get tired. Keep chin to chest distance the size of a fist or tennis ball.
Tip! Each time you practise, slowly increase the number of breaths you can hold the position.

Good Luck.