72 March 2014 www.womanthismonth.com As every new year rolls around, vast swathes of women, panicking about excess pounds and one too many chocolate puddings, latch onto the latest fad diet and exercise regimes in a bid to achieve a more desirable physique. Unfortunately, most of these attempts end in failure. This isn’t necessarily because these fads aren’t grounded in science; it is more because dramatic changes to your existing routine will be largely unsustainable. Face the facts; a lean, muscular body doesn’t just appear overnight. The only way you’re going to get there is by making small, but permanent and significant adjustments to the way you eat and the exercise regime you practise. These adjustments need to fit the demands of your lifestyle, such as your job, age and whether or not you have children. In addition to speaking to sports scientist and women’s fitness expert John Dent for some pointers, we track down three fitness superwomen. Take a look at their three very different approaches to wellbeing. One of them might make a superwoman out of you too! The expert’s viewpoint According to John Dent, whose background is in working with female sports stars that are keen to get back to fitness after surgery, the best way to start is slowly. “The greatest misconception,” he says, “is that pain equals gain. Usually, pain actually equals drain and can be really demotivating. Less is more when it comes to making positive, long-lasting change.” If you haven’t exercised for a while, you need to begin by seeking professional advice. It is hugely important that the abdominal muscles supporting the lumbar spine, pelvis and tummy undergo proper conditioning prior to trying running or more energetic pursuits. A simple programme to restore the coordination and strength of the deep tummy muscles should form the foundation of any new health and fitness adventure. “I am a great believer in rewards. Rewards help crystallise and embed new health behaviours. It can take more than 100 days for a new behaviour to be installed. So be kind to yourself and make the most of sharing your experience with a network of friends who are supportive,” he adds. Let’s meet our superwomen! LIFESTYLE | wellbeing Whose Team Are You On? by NATASHA BIRD
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy Mjk0MTkxMQ==