Having been an avid ‘Gym Bunny’ myself for a number of years, I know just how addictive and all consuming exercise (and in particular vigorous exercise) can become when you are trying to achieve the healthiest and best version of you.  You believe your life and dreams depend on it.  It can become all consuming, on top of all the other things you are trying to be 100% at.

I spent thousands of hours on treadmills and in fitness classes trying to shed pounds and achieve my goals.  It was hard work and simply exhausting to keep the regime up and maintain what I thought was the perfect weight and body size to deliver my dreams. I would feel terrible if I skipped a day/class and didn’t hit my self imposed weekly goals.

Ultimately I was ‘skinny fat’, with a low BMI and a very over worked and therefore over stressed body that just wanted some love, care and attention.  It took me a long time to work out how to work out so that I was creating the optimum physical and mental environment for me to reach my goals.

With that, my body shape has changed and I am no longer a ‘skinny’ size 10 (I’m over 6ft, so at size 10, believe me – skinny!).  I am however happy and fulfilled when I have exercised and I look forward to it.  Make that your goal, not your weight or body size!

Now, there completely is a place for high intensity cardio, but it is not the most fertility friendly activity. So my advice is to try and find a balance that works.  If you love running or have to attend a HIIT class at the gym, then absolutely do that.

However, also try and make some time in your week to do something a little ‘softer’ – perhaps swimming, yoga or some brisk walking outdoors (you get the bonus of a vitamin D top up, fresh air AND the delight of looking at nature while you exercise). Working out with some light weights is also a great way to increase lean muscle mass, burn fat and make you look and feel great.  Big fan of #teamthickthighs over here!

My 7 day and 90 day programmes include some great inspiration and workout ideas for you to follow, as well as the free content on my insta and FB accounts.  So head over and take a look!