A long time ago in a galaxy far away, I sent off an email to
members of GCS with health and fitness suggestions to benefit those in the
community. Following this, I was put in touch with a brilliant health and
fitness team, who also had the same vision as I: to make exercise more accessible
in the workplace and to get everyone moving. After agreeing the #gcsactive, and
buying at Fitbit, it was time to practice what I, so often, preach. Since
starting that hashtag, wearing my Fitbit and moving more, I can most certainly
say that my life has improved for the better. During the process, I have come across a brilliant group of
people whom I would have never encountered had I not become part of the health and
fitness team. The team are always supportive and lend some motivation when mine
wanes when I am sat on the sofa watching Great British Bake off.
As
of three weeks ago, I have also started a weights programme. I have astounded,
and slightly startled, myself with how much I can now lift. All of which have
improved my form for the better.
Since starting the hashtag, and engaging in activity
throughout the day, I have lost nearly a stone in weight. Clothes now fit
better, and I feel more comfortable and confident in my own skin. I didn’t
think I was ever a ‘born runner’, but through grit and determination, I am now
running faster and longer, and with every running achievement, I feel great.
I have found a love of the quietness of running, as it gives
me peace and quiet and some great head space. However, playing team sports is
very a different ball game- pun intended. So after not playing hockey for a few
seasons, I decided to dust off my AstroTurf’s, pick up my stick and wash out my
ancient mouth guard- don’t worry I used mouthwash and toothpaste. Since
restarting hockey, I’ve made great new friends, with whom I tend to socialise
with on most weekends. We also have ‘Fitbit banter’, as many of my team mates
also wear them; we check them at the end of the game and see who has moved the
most- and the least!
Overall, for myself I have: rekindled my love of sports,
made some great friends and I look and feel a million times better. For others
that are considering getting on board with joining our team, and moving more, I
would say, do it. Share your experiences with us on our social media pages and
join the hustle. Do it for three months
consistently and see what changes it has on your life, as I’m sure your
experiences may well be very different to mine, but only you will find out what
those will be.
Thanks to Becky (Bex) Fortnam for sharing your journey