Released:
09:55 December 27, 2021
Lots of people across the city will try to get in shape after the turkey and festive goodies in the New Year.
The Norwich fitness trainers have shared their top tips on how to lead an active and healthy lifestyle in 2022.
ATP Health and Fitness The fitness trainer Matt Philpot from Norwich has been running his own group fitness company for over 10 years.
Mr. Philpot advised people to come up with a plan that would suit their lifestyle and set small goals, such as reducing the size of their pants.
Matt Philpot from ATP Health and Fitness Norwich
– Credit: Archant
The teacher, who teaches primarily in the Hellesdon, Horsford, Sprowston, and Drayton areas, said it was important to cut down on processed foods and anything high in sugar.
“Not only do these make you feel lethargic, but they also lead to weight gain and the less energy you have, the less likely you are to be motivated to exercise,” he said.
Both Mr. Philpot and Action Fitness Norwich’s owner and personal trainer Craig Jackson advised exercising with a friend, relative, or in a group to encourage one another.
Craig Jackson, coach, personal trainer and owner of Action Fitness Norwich
– Photo credit: Craig Jackson
Mr. Jackson added, “Find something that you enjoy, be it walking, biking, swimming, the gym, exercise classes, or an outdoor boot camp.
“If you don’t enjoy it, you won’t stick with it.”
Adam Sheppard, fitness manager at Nuffield Health in Norwich, said those looking to make permanent change should focus on a long-term approach.
He explained, “It’s tempting to say, ‘Oh, I exercise five times a week, take 10,000 steps a day, and meditate for 30 minutes a day,’ and then find that family, work, and life stand in the way.
“So if you go to the gym once a week, take the dog for an extra walk, and can’t have lunch at your desk, start with that – the rest will come later, if you can.”
Adam Sheppard, fitness manager at Nuffield Health in Norwich
– Photo credit: Yexley Imagery
Mr Sheppard said it wasn’t uncommon for people to make drastic changes in the New Year before getting back into bad habits by February.
Small changes are easier to maintain, he said.
The fitness guru said the best way to make a lasting change in physical and mental health is to lift weights weekly.
Although joining a gym can be intimidating, personal trainers can arrange an introduction and individual or group sessions.
