Roses and Velvet

This is a simple mental trick that might make resistance workouts – weights or bodyweight – a little easier. Counting down the reps means by the time it’s really hurting we’re at the 3,2,1 stage, which feels closer to the end than 8,9,10 or whatever target we’re going for. It won’t work for everyone, but it’s worth a try.

Nothing builds motivation as efficiently as seeing signs of improvement, so make sure we keep some kind of record of our activity.

Exercising outdoors is a great way to ensure twe get our hit of vitamin D (if it’s sunny) as well as a good workout, and it doesn’t have to be all cardio. As well as the exercise machines that litter many parks, we can nearly always finds a bar or ledge for pull-ups, or a bench or wall to do dips on. Rarer treats can even include chains to use as ersatz TRX ropes.

Nothing builds motivation as efficiently as seeing signs of improvement, so make sure that we keep some kind of record of our activity. It can be as simple as noting our record five-rep max or fastest 5K time, using either one of the many excellent fitness apps available or old-fashioned pen and paper.

Remember to isolate and train your calves!