Whether it’s a catch up run with friends, a local park run, the London Marathon, or the Marathon des Sables, we’re all running our own races, for our own reasons, in our own way. But on Sunday 22nd May, I took part in a truly “great race”, where people from all walks of life were running together, sharing the streets of Manchester in the glorious sunshine!

The Great Manchester Run (that has now became a symbol of solidarity after the bombing at Manchester arena last year) is a race full of sunshine and celebration that showcases the spirt of Manchester in all its glory. The streets are lined with spectators, singers, volunteers, steel bands, whilst runners turn out in their thousands, including celebrated survivors of the atrocity and the running elite (hello Mo Farah and Lily Patridge).

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I was privileged to be running with team Garmin, the company who arguably lead the way in GPS navigation, innovation and wearable technology for runners. Our team was made up of established speed demons, yoga teachers, social media influences and even through our experience varied (lets be honest, I was never going to run a 10k in 36 minutes) what we all shared was our love of running!

The Garmin team truly encapsulated the philosophy that running is for everyone (yes even you). Whatever your age, whatever your experience and whatever your pace, there’s nothing stopping you lacing up your trainers and hitting the streets.

The Great Machester Run was my first race since the London Marathon and unbelievably it was just as hot too (typical). The fact that we set off in the first wave of 10km runners (which was about 1:30pm) meant it was a whopping 23 degrees in the sun at the start line.

With very little shade on the course, we all knew that a sensible pace was going to be vital. It’s so easy to get carried away with the atmosphere of the race and set off as if you’re running the 100 metre sprint, only to realise 2km in that you have very little left in the tank (I am not Mo Farah, I am not Mo Farah…). So, as with all my runs, I relied on my watch to help me maintain an even, steady pace throughout.

I’ve always used Garmin running watches (previously the Foreruner 230 and for this race the Forerunner 235 ). Throughout the race, it helped me to monitor when I needed to slow down or speed up (simple enough). It also helped me keep track of distance, so I knew exactly how many KM’s I’d covered and how many I had left to run. At the end of the run it gave me an accurate time, telling me exactly how long it had taken me to complete the race. It even has a feature (which I love) that monitors your heart rate – hello my new best friend!

Geek Alert – Additional features include 11 hours on a charge(in Training Mode – using GPS AND the heart-rate monitor) and up to nine days when it’s being used as a watch with activity tracking, notifications and the heart rate monitor. It’s also important to note that the Forerunner 235 picks up a GPS signal faster than any device I’ve ever tested. Which makes it the perfect device when thousands of other runners are trying to connect their devices to Russian satellites (yes seriously).

So how am I feeling after Sunday….excited, inspired, in awe, determined. Basically the same feelings I get after any big event but the Great Manchester run was a special one! The atmosphere, the crowd, the passion but most importantly the people! Get out there and start running – I promise you, you won’t regret it!

On Sunday the 22nd April (along with over 41,000 wonderful human beings) I ran the Virgin London Marathon 2018. Like many others gathering at the start line, it was my inaugural voyage into the world of running (26. 2 miles) and even though I’d trained like a beast for the past six months, I was consumed with nerves, self doubt at ruminating thoughts  of “can I actually do this?”.

It didn’t help that it was the hottest London Marathon on record. My training runs had been throughout the Winter, so I was more accustomed to ice, snow and torrential down pours than sunshine and as a result I was beginning to doubt all the strategies I’d put into place.

The advice at the expo was to run at a slower pace, not to strive for PBs, listen to our bodies, run in the shade (where possible) and stay hydrated (all of which was invaluable in hindsight) but as I headed to the start line at Greenwich Park last week (after 200 trips to the toilet) the fear was real!

But little did I know that this little run through the streets of London was going to be one of the most magical experiences of my life and would spark a passion for running that I didn’t even know existed! It is everything people say it is (and more) and if I encourage you to so one thing on Monday 30th April, it would be to enter the ballot for London 2019.

Many of you have been asking about my journey as a newbie to marathon running, so if you’d  like to learn more about my journey to London 2018 then read on…

Last year (after being inspired by the bbd documentary “mind over marathon” ) I decided that 2018 would be my year to run a marathon. Mainly because this was the year I was turning 40  (I know – I can’t believe it either) and I decided that such a momentous occasion needed to be marked with something extraordinary. I knew I wanted a challenge that would push me beyond my physical limits and I needed conformation that turning 40   is just a number (sob…please insert a crying emoji here) and anything is possible if you want it badly enough, so a marathon seemed like the perfect fit.

I’ve always been “fit”. I trained as a contemporary dancer and have practised yoga and pilates for over 20 years. I have good cardiovascular fitness, can knock out a hit class with relative ease and pride myself on my competitive nature and fighting spirit. With this in mind, I nievely assumed that my back catalogue of fitness prowess would equate to having pretty good running fitness too …right? er…wrong! Especially when entering the world of endurance running – it’s a whole different ball game. Even though my baseline fitness certainly helped, running I’ve learned (and am still learning) is not quite the same thing.

Before I started training (seriously training) my running history was pretty much non existent. Yes I’d run the odd 5k and even participated in my local Tough Mudder, but running any kind of distance was completely ailien to me. I soon realised that to turn my marathon dream into a 26.2 mile reality, I was going to have to go back to the drawing board and start from ground zero.

I started running once a week, slowly building up my distance but never actually running more than once. In October, I threw myself in the deep end with a local (very hilly) half marathon and quite frankly it was hell. My once a week training session had not prepared me for the distance, I didn’t have enough miles in the tank, had no clue about pacing (or nutrition) and I hated pretty much all of it (especially the last three miles). I hit the wall (if that is even possible in a half marathon) and the last mile felt like 20! A series rethink in my strategy was needed…

After brushing myself (and my ego) down and jumping back on the a marathon band-wagon. I  decided that if I’m actually going to complete the London Marathon, I’d need a training plan. Preferably one that was written by someone who actually knows what they’re doing! As clearly making it up as I went along wasn’t quite cutting it.

I decided to go onto the London Marathon website (after all this was the event I was training for) and even though there were loads of options, I downloaded their improvers plan. Because even though the half marathon had pretty much been a disaster, I felt I was a little bit beyond the walk for a minute, run for a minute stage and it was here I met my running mentor (he doesn’t know it BTW ) Martin Yelling.

Finding a running plan (and Martin) was revolutionary. I finally had a week by week/step by step/ run by run schedule that I could follow, that had been designed by someoe who knew his potatoes! He also uploaded lots of Facebook lives that were full of helpful hints, tips and reassurance!

I started to get experience with Intervals, speed work, hills, track sessions, strength and conditioning, flexibility/mobilty, pilates all of these things continued to enhance my running but in all honestly this is still a bit of a minefield and I’m always asking those with more experience for advice and tips on how to improve bot my training and running performance.

By the time I ran my second half marathon in February I managed to knock 15 minutes off my PB and include a sprint finish! After that my confidence grew and more importantly it taught me to trust in a process because it works. So by the time 22nd April rolled around – I was more than ready to take on the challenge!

Running (and training for) the London Marathon has taught me more lessons than I could have possibly imagined…

1. Anything is possible.  If you want something  badly enough, you can turn a dream into a reality.
2. It taught me that I’m a capable, strong and consistent runner! Yes me, the person who five months ago could barely run 5km without moaning “when will this be over”
3. If you’re training for a specific race, follow a plan, it will give your training runs a focus and avoid the “doing too much too soon” issues that can arise.
4. Join a running club. Its a great place to meet other runners, get advice, share tips and strategies, learn about pace/distance. It also makes Winter training runs much more enjoyable and keeps me accountable. After all if I’ve made an arrangement to meet someone, I’m much more likely to turn up.
5. Vary your runs (this is where training plans and running clubs come in handy).
6. Listen to those more experienced than yourself (which is most people in my case). Social media channels have been a great platform for me to gain tips, advice, anecdotes to learn from. There is a wealth of information, so make sure you follow people who have a proven track record and offer advice (Martin Yelling, Ben Parks, Susie chan…)
7. Trust in the taper. The plan I was following had me running my last long run (20 miles) three weeks before the actual event itself. After this my runs became shorter, less distance and pace driven and more easy paced short runs to keep the legs lose and limber. Even though everything I read assured me I wouldn’t  loose my fitness, I spent the whole day before the marathon convinced I wouldn’t be able to run the distance (I could).
8. Enjoy every mile.
9. Never compare yourself to others (only compete with yourself).
10. Human beings are amazing. The London Marathon bathes humanity in a glow of golden light. From the runners to the volunteers to the spectators, to the elite athletes – it showcases the wonder of people and what we can achieve when we encourage,support and celebrate collectively.

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What’s next? Well first I’m going to run the final 3.7 #milesformatt and after that I’ve going to start a training plan to achieve a sub 1:55 half marathon before putting my hat in the ring for London 2019!

Let me set the scene…

It’s a cold, grey November morning in London; the rain is a consistent blanket of drizzle and the weather is hovering just above zero degrees. While most people are huddled under umbrellas (or tucked up indoors waiting for the sun to make an appearance) I’m lacing up my trainers, putting on my waterproof running jacket and setting off on my 3rd training run of the week. Such is the life for me (and everyone else) who is currently training for the London Marathon 2018.

When I had my place confirmed I was ecstatic, literally, I couldn’t believe it! But as I mark off the days on my calendar and April creeps closer and closer, ecstasy is slowly turning to fear!

Buy this entire outfit for £74.97 (including the trainers)!

To say my training has been a learning curve up to this point is an understatement. I recently ran my first half marathon (the last mile wasn’t fun) and I’m currently working with a running coach to improve my technique. So far, I’ve had to change my running style, up my cadence (to 180 to those who are interested), run more frequently and basically go further and faster than ever before (not much then). In fact, I think it’s fair to say, I am so far out of my comfort zone, I can barely make it out on the horizon. However, it appears there may be a silver lining…

All this extra training (especially as it’s winter) has required a complete kit overhaul (yes!!). As we all know, good kit is essential for marathon training but often it can end up costing the earth! Those of you who have been reading my blog for a while, know that I have huge issues spending hundreds of pounds on new active wear, especially when it’s so close to Christmas) but with some savvy online shopping you really don’t have to.

MandM Direct is my favourite “go to”site when I’m looking to update my fit kit. I can always find my favourite brands: (Puma, Adidas and New Balance to name a few) and they’re always at a fraction of the price on the high street. In fact,  If I told you my entire outfit pictured in this blog post came in at under £75 (yes even the trainers), I know you’d find it hard to believe!

Buy this entire outfit for £74.97 (including the trainers)!

Let’s take a closer look at my favourite November picks…

First up running tights. These have become a necessity since I’ve started running at night and I have finally found my dream pair! Who knew Puma had WarmCELL Running Tights, that are thermal insulated! They have an MP3 player pouch, reflective print branding and and elasticated drawcord waist band, literally everything your going to need in a pair of winter running leggings and they only cost £16.99! Yes you heard me, an absolute bargain right?

Buy this entire outfit for £74.97 (including the trainers)!

Whilst browsing the site, I also found a puma long sleeved top to match (for £12.99) and  I’ve lived in it ever since it landed on my doorstep (I’m actually wearing it right now as I write this blog)! The sleeves are extra long (so I can use them as hand warmers instead of gloves whilst out running) and it has a beautiful velvet trim running down both arms and let’s be honest, everyone needs a little touch of velvet at Christmas.

New Balance Womens Cruz Fresh Foam Trainers Grey £44.99

Add to this, a pair of New Balance, Cruz Fresh Foam trainers (which come in three different, but equally gorgeous colours) and my outfit was complete. Okay, so they’re not technically long distance running trainers but I’ll wear them for lots of my other workouts, so they’re allowed! And as Christmas is the season for giving (clearly to myself)…well, it would have been rude not to!

Browse the full range of active wear from MandM Direct here! But be warned, you’ll not only end up buying new fit kit, but will probably do most of your Christmas shopping while you’re there too! My husband has already requested pair of their adidas trainers!!

BALANCE FESTIVAL 2017

It’s no secret that the fitness and wellness industry is thriving: anyone who’s anyone is a personal trainer, wellness coach, nutritionist, influencer, Instagramer, the list goes on… and as a result, we have an ever-growing market that’s literally bursting at the seams. Yes, we are all seeking a little bit more wellbeing (in one way or another) but the rapid growth of the industry means we can all get a little overwhelmed, maybe even confused by the choices that are out there. It’s time we sorted out our nut butter from our cactus water (yes cactus water) but where do we start…?

If only there was place that celebrated everything (or nearly everything) the industry has to offer, where we could meet and get to know over 200 incredible food, fitness and wellness brands, bursting with insight and innovation. A place that would allow us to taste new products, try out London’s hottest fitness classes, talk to experts, watch cooking demonstrations; where we could taste, experience and explore all things fitness and wellness and maybe even find some hidden gems that would make our own wellness journey a little more enjoyable and well, balanced. Well ladies and gentlemen, it’s time you met Balance Festival 2017.

Sadly, if you’re reading this, you’re a weekend too late. But the good news is it’ll definitely be returning (if I’ve got anything to do with it) and I’m here to share my particular highlights just for you; although it will only be the tip of the iceberg.

 The Balance Festival promised an exploration of cutting-edge fitness classes, mouth-wateringly nutritious meals, inspiring experts as well as the opportunity to discover exciting new brands, and let’s just say it didn’t disappoint.

Like anything, it’s always sensible to start at the beginning and my beginning is always the food. We all know that nutrition is arguably the most important component of the fitness journey, after all, the phrase “you can’t out train a bad diet” must have come from somewhere. The wealth of food options, each loaded with wholesome and nutritious ingredients, was incredible at  Balance Festival!

One of my favourites was The Vurger Company. Their burgers (or Vurgers) are 100% plant-based, created with only vegetables, seeds, nuts and legumes, indulgence has never felt so good!

I also got introduced to an amazing company called Escape and Bake. They specialise in delicious, indulgent healthy treats, which are refined sugar-free, gluten-free and dairy-free. Their bakes are made from completely whole and natural ingredients and if you looking at a healthy way to curb your sugar cravings – my goodness you have found it! Even though I could have eaten everything on their stall 10 times over (and I wasn’t alone because the ended each day completely sold outs) my particular favourite was the nutella doughnut (yes you heard me correctly and yes it was every bit as good as it sounds).

Next we move on to my other obsession, fitness wear. We were inundated with choice and if you want the complete list of what was available in the Athleisure Village, just click here. Nearly all of the brands at The Balance Festival are available online and are certainly worth a look (but be warned, have your credit card ready)! My particular favourite was Active in Style (also available online). They have sourced the world’s most sought after and recognised designer gym wear and deliver it to you with style and grace for that serious edge of function and performance to your active wardrobe. As a result, to say I bought far too many pairs of leggings, is an understatement. The only negative thing I have to say is that Active in Style had sold out of their new Avenue C leggings in my size – boo!! They are part of their iconic Morning Skyline collection and a beautiful (yet simple) combination of black and gold. So, as I’m writing this blog post, I’m waiting for them to become available online in an extra small…well I suppose patience is a virtue…

Last but not least – the fitness element. There were also a whole host of London’s best fitness offerings, including: Another Space, Equinox, Barry’s Boot Camp, Boom Cycle, Tri Yoga (the list goes on) but the undisputed highlight for me was The Urban Tri event. We started at the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, starting with a 25min HIIT session (my wave was lead by Equinox, which was followed by a 6km run through the streets (and picturesque canals) of East London. We finished the event with a 30 minute restorative yoga session at the Old Truman Brewery, which was taught by the wonderful Boys of Yoga (look at their instagram if you want to cheer up your day).

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These classes ran alongside meditation pop ups, mindfulness sessions, inspirational talks on self – empowerment and body image. There truly was something for everyone, I’m already chomping at the bit for next years event! There has been no better way to welcome the Summer Festival season, so if you’re seeking a little bit more wellbeing, but on your own terms, then Balance Festival is for you. Role on 2018!

You may have already noticed that Spring has finally sprung: yes that is sunshine you can see outside your window! And if, like me, you’re feeling inspired to Spring clean your kitchen cupboards, you may want to spend a little bit of time updating your workout wardrobe while you’re at it!

Over the past few weeks, I’ve been hunting down some of the best Spring/Summer “fit kit” that the market has to offer and being a “sharing is caring” kind of person, I’ve decided to share my findings with you. I’ve uncovered some truly hidden gems, which have allowed me to say goodbye to my boring black running leggings and hello to colourful shorts and crops that have me leaping into Spring in style. What’s even more exciting is the kit I’ve found costs a lot (and I mean A LOT) less then you might expect.. want to know more? Read on.

Those of you who read my blog regularly will already be aware of MandM Direct, a hidden (or not so hidden) internet shopping site where you can purchase some of the most renowned workout brands at prices that are not going to cost you the earth. In fact, you can often get your hands on items that are up to 75 % cheaper than you might find on the high street. That’s a whole lot of saving!

Below is my latest purchase and would you believe, this colourful New Balance combo (that’s the shorts AND the bra top)  cost the grand total of…wait for it £21.98! Yes you heard me correctly! The New Balance Womens Accelerate Printed 2.5″ Running Shorts came in at £9.99, the New Balance Womens Accelerate Printed Running Crop Top £11.99 and I was so excited when my new kit arrived, I immediately ordered New Balance Womens Woven NB Heat Thermal Running Jacket and New Balance Womens WX822 V2 Training Shoes to match.

At this point I feel It’s important to mention, that as I’m currently training for a half marathon, I needed to make sure that my new kit not only looked good but could also live up to my expectations in terms of performance. So I decided to put it through it’s paces and hit the beach. Could it withstand a 10k run and a HITT workout and how would it fair when faced with the following questions…?

1. Is it well fitted and comfortable?
2. Does it provide the adequate support?
3. Does it allow freedom of movement?
4. Is it breathable and move sweat away from the body (yes I sweat a lot) ?
5. Do I feel good in it?

It’s fair to say it passed with flying colours!

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Although I’m still running off the tonne of chocolate I consumed over Easter and as a result my ab definition has taken a hammering, it’s safe to say that my wallet certainly hasn’t.  I’m now leaping into Spring with an extra spring in my step and an extra few pennies in my pocket and with prices this low, I’m already eyeing up my next purchase at MandM Direct.

Having trained as a dancer, I’ve always loved ballet! It’s an intrinsic part of my fitness programme (yes even now) and I can’t shout loud enough about it’s benefits (more on that later). So when Puma’s newest collection launched earlier this month, it’s safe to say I was just a little bit excited. If you’ve read one of my earlier posts, you’ll already  know that the Swan Pack Collection has been inspired by the phenomenal New York City Ballet, so if you picture tutus and trainers, combined with pink trimmed, feather-laden prints, mesh tops and hot pink crops, you won’t go far wrong.

To put the new collection through its paces, I ventured (with my favourite ladies from the #TeamFaster PUMA Squad) to Phiit London to take part in a barre inspired workout, with the lovely Louisa Drake. If you haven’t taken part in a barre class yet, then I can’t recommended them highly enough. These days, you can find them in most gyms, although it’s worth pointing out that the classes can carry a multitude of titles (barre core; barre-fit; ballet fit; ballaties…to name a few) but if you’re lucky enough to stumble across a good one, the premiss should be the same.

“Barre” classes generally combine strength training and cardio, so that you’re burning fat and building muscle at the same time. The “barre” technique focuses on strengthening the muscles, and as muscle tissue burns 15 times as many calories as fat, the stronger you get, the more calories you’ll burn. Which also means that you’ll be burning calories long after the class has ended (win/win).

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Our class at Phitt, started with a warm up, followed by a sequence of upper-body exercises, which included using free weights, a series of push ups, plank variations and moves that targeted the biceps, triceps, chest, and back muscles. Next, we alternated between the the ballet barre and mat focussing on core conditioning where we used our own body weight for resistance, focussing on the, legs, thighs and seat muscles (that’s your bum). My core (when I remembered) was engaged the entire class, not just during the targeted core exercises at the end. For the cool down, we were led through a series of stretches to increase our flexibility and allow our muscles to recover (and they definitely needed time to recover).

I think it’s fair to say with the major benefits of this style of workout including, improved posture, muscle definition, weightloss, increased flexibility and reduced stress, it’s definitely worth trying to fit a class like this in alongside you weight, resistance, cardio training. Of course there are lots of variations on the theme on offer, but if you’re in a class and it has a barre in it (not the kind that sells vodka shots) then you’re probably in the right place.

Anyone who knows me (or follows my Instagram) will happily confirm that I live in my active wear. I wear it on the school run, the coffee run, to work…oh yes and to the gym, in fact it currently makes up 90% of my wardrobe (and sadly I’m not exaggerating). As a result,  It’s become increasingly important (especially to my wallet) that I “shop smart” when adding to my ever-growing collection. Although this is a skill that I’m still developing, it basically means choosing pieces that can take me straight from the studio to the street (or vice-versa) and still look good.

To help blur the lines between the two, I try to keep up with seasonal trends (when and where they suit me). A favourite studio-to -street hack (and one that I see almost all of the fitness bloggers I follow on Instagram do) is to throw a leather jacket over a pair of workout leggings, It instantly transforms any gym outfit and goes a long way in the style stakes; after all If it’s good enough for Jordon Dunn…My current favourite is my Firetrap Womens Suedette Biker Jacket in Jet Black (£49.99) from MandMDirect,  which I throw on over my gym leggings with a chunky, big knit scarf.

Womens Suedette Biker Jacket in Jet Black

Womens Suedette Biker Jacket in Jet Black

I’m slowly discovering that by making just a few subtle changes, I can instantly transform my active wear into my everyday wardrobe. I have lots of monochrome pieces which I can mix and match and layering is a must. I try to accessorise appropriately and always carry an oversized multi-purpose gym bag.

Of course, the fact that active wear is everywhere at the moment helps (a lot) but I have a few “go to” websites where I’m always guaranteed to find some pieces to add to my wardrobe. MandMDirect is currently at the top of my list, their  Jacqueline De Yong Womens Fairless Jersey Ankle Pants effortlessly  take me straight from yoga to lunch and when I pair them with the Firetrap Womens Woven T-Shirt Dress in black or Rose (because I have both) I’m instantly transformed and ready to get on with my day.

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I always stick to neutral colours and I try to mix and match with complimenting colour schemes, most of my wardrobe consists of  black, nudes and grey tones, although I also have more white trainers that I know what to do with. PUMA’s new basket heart are (in my opinion) by far the best on the market at the moment , not only do they  have ribbon laces but they are quite frankly are the prettiest trainers I own.

Making my kit work for every occasion (well nearly every occasion) is first and foremost convenient, but secondly it’s what I feel most comfortable in. When I head out to a lunch (or to the occasional breakfast meeting) It’s the perfect on-the-go wear that looks good and feels good too. With so many options available to us, it’s not that hard to be stylish yet functional whilst promoting a fit and healthy lifestyle (which is what I am all about), even when I’m sipping a glass of savingon blanc at the bar!

Stockists: MandMDirect/Puma Women

Hello! My name is Sarah and I’m an active wear addict…there I’ve said it!

Anyone who knows me will confirm that I literally live in my “fit kit”, even when i’m NOT heading to the gym you’ll normally find me in a pair of trainers and running leggings and as a result,  I often find I spend a small fortune to feed my active wear addiction! It certainly doesn’t help that (these days) we’re inundated with choice more than ever, nearly every high street retailer has an offering; Next, Primark, H&M, Topshop, the list goes on… which means I could literally spend my monthly salary ten times over and I know (because my Instagram feed confirms it) that I’m not alone.

So, I’ve  decided to investigate if it’s actually possible to purchase fitness wear that looks good, performs well AND has the added bonus of being sold at discounted prices. After all, if we can save a few pennies along the way that’s even better right?

Up until now, I’ve always overlooked discount retailers for my active wear, mainly because I’ve assumed if it’s cheaper it just won’t look as good, feel as good or perform as well under pressure. But, I was about to be proved wrong!

I decided to visit online retailer, MandM Direct, because it prides itself on offering fitness gear (amongst other things) with savings of up to 75% off, so it seemed like the perfect place to start! My eyes were immediately drawn to this New Balance combo (see above) which came to a grand total of….wait for it…£27.98 (yes you heard me correctly). Not only is New Balance a brand that I wear often, but the monochrome vibe is “right up my street” – yes I love black and I’m not afraid to say it! The New Balance Womens Accelerate Running Crop Top was a mere £9.99 and the Accelerate Running Tight Leggings just £17.99! (Although, it might be important to add, that if you’re not a complete “colour-phobe” like me, there are lots of vibrant colour options available).

When it arrived (very quickly) MandM Direct didn’t disappoint. The feel and quality of the kit was on point, it felt good, looked good and as it’s scientifically proven if we look good we exercise more and perform better, quite frankly it was a case of so far-so good! I also felt decidedly smug that the price tag was beyond reasonable (and actually I found myself logging back on to see what else I could get my hands on)!

At this point, I feel it’s also important to note, that just because something looks good and is available at a huge discount, doesn’t always mean it’s built to withstand a high intensity workout. So my next step was to take my new kit through it’s paces to see if it could withstand the variety of my workout week. I lift weights, attend weekly HITT classes, yoga sessions, pilates, the list is endless – so it’s fair to say I needed to put this outfit to the test…

At the end of the week, I was pleased to conclude (as was my bank balance) that I don’t always need to spend a fortune on my active wear to look gym fit. Actually, with a bit of careful shopping I can get look, feel and quality all in one hit, with the added bonus of knowing that I can kick of the New Year in style AND in credit. I’m already a regular visitor to MandM Direct and I know we’ll be seeing a lot of each other in the future (I’ve already got my eye on a new pair of trainers). And of course the money I save can be put towards my hot yoga classes (they’re expensive you know), so isn’t it about time you  joined the discount revolution, after all, we all love a bargain or two don’t we!

As someone who has danced most of her life and is now a self -confessed fitness addict, imagine my delight when I got a sneaky peak at Puma women’s new swan pack collection. Available from the 1st February and inspired by the New York City Ballet, this new collection is a collaboration of my dreams! Tutus, trainers combined with pink trimmed, feather laden prints, mesh tops and hot pink crops – its a collection that has me reaching for my pointe shoes. Get me to the barre…!

SEPTEMBER GIVEAWAY (caution, freebies approaching…)

Having just spent my entire Summer holiday in hospital (battling a serious kidney infection) September has been the ‘month of the slump’. My fitness levels have taken a serious nose dive and quite frankly, it’s time to take some action. I’ve decided to supercharge my training by taking it outdoors  (with the help of the UK’s undisputed leader in outdoor fitness) British Military Fitness and guess what, I’m taking you with me…

British Military Fitness classes take place in over 140 parks throughout the UK. Every class is different, caters for all fitness levels, and their military-trained instructors guarantee results. They promise that participants will be challenged, motivated, and above all, have serious fun. Each session lasts for one hour and includes a 5-10 minute warm up, 45-50 minutes of cardio and strength training, and a 5 minute cool down with stretches. The sessions are broken down into ability levels (blue, red and green) of around 15 people per instructor – so anyone is welcome,  from fitness rookies to exercise veterans!

If this sounds like the sort of boost your training needs and you’re not already a member of BMF, then you can give it a go for FREE (yes you heard me). I have an all access pass for each and every one of you which will entitle you to an unlimited amount of British Military Fitness classes for fourteen consecutive days (two whole weeks) at a venue of the your choice. All you have to do is comment on my BMF Instagram post, then I will send you a code via DM which you can use at the British Military Fitness website. Not only will you be able to sign up for a free “two week” pass, there will also be a free BMF goody bag for one of you too!

BMF was originally started to encourage more people to get out of the gyms and get active in the great outdoors. Why? Because outdoor exercise is proven to be better for you than working out in the gym. British Military Fitness classes take place in the great outdoors in parks throughout the UK. Every BMF class is different, caters for all fitness levels, and our military-trained instructors guarantee results. Participants will be challenged, motivated, and above all, have serious fun. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to supercharge your training with British Military Fitness!