Archive for the ‘Outdoor Fitness’ category

Regent’s Canal Fitness: London’s Hidden Outdoor Gym

November 21st, 2009

The towpaths that run along London’s canals and waterways are  unusual fitness venues for outdoor exercise, but one of my favourite choices.  I think the area is an overlooked opportunity for people wanting to get outside to improve their fitness, seeking a change from the enclosed atmosphere of a mainstream gym.

Running alongside Regent's Canal

Running alongside Regent's Canal

The stretch of the Regent’s Canal between Little Venice and King’s Cross is where I take my clients. We start with a walk or a run, then work on whole body conditioning using simple tools that I always carry in my rucksack: » Read more: Regent’s Canal Fitness: London’s Hidden Outdoor Gym

Fitness Over 50

November 6th, 2009
Fitness Over 50 Through Exercise Outdoors

Fitness Over 50 Through Exercise Outdoors

I have to admit, I was worried. Last week, a client of mine expressed interest in trying out British Military Fitness’ fitness assessment (an adapted version of the British Army’s standardized fitness test, grading candidates on speed and endurance in a number of challenging categories). » Read more: Fitness Over 50

Gym in a Rucksack

October 9th, 2009

In December 2007, I was training clients at a Central London gym. As the staff gathered for a bit of Christmas cheer, munching on our turkey-flavoured rice cakes, we were informed that the building had been sold and the gym would be closing down.

Gym in a Rucksack - a commuter carrying a gym on her back, Primrose Hill

Gym in a Rucksack - a commuter carrying a green gym

I realised that as my clients would scatter and disperse to a variety of other gyms, I was going to lose a lot of business.

Over Christmas, I had some hard thinking to do. The answer came in a present from my girlfriend: the Gymboss, a clever split-interval timer » Read more: Gym in a Rucksack

Outdoor Fitness Training in the Rain

September 27th, 2009
Outdoor Map of Primrose Hill, covered in raindrops

Outdoor Map of Primrose Hill, covered in raindrops

A threatening cloud hung in the sky, as I started my client’s fitness training session in Regent’s Park, last week.   Although my client is keen on exercising outdoors and not averse to a spot of rain, we relocated under a tree as the first drops began to fall.  I adapted the session, concentrating on upper-body work to keep her off the wet ground.  The rain fell harder.  » Read more: Outdoor Fitness Training in the Rain