8 Ways to increase your fitness this National Fitness Day

National Fitness Day has arrived and it’s a great excuse for many of us to get moving.

For this blog we asked our TEAm to share with us how they like to get fit… enjoy.

Fitness is something you can progressively build on and you can have fun along the way. Take a look at our 8 ways to increase your fitness and let us know what you think:

1. Start walking more

Our first Wellness with eteaket event back in May ’18 was with Johnathan Cooke of JCFitness who runs Edinburgh’s Health and Fitness Project. He told us that small changes in habits can lead to big results. An easy one is walking. If you live a walk-able distance from your work, enjoy a walk before and after work. It’s a great chance to catch up on podcasts or notice new things around your neighbourhood plus you will notice a increase in your fitness levels. If you are brave you could even tackle some hills like our TEAm member Kalli.

2. Pop along to a group fitness class

I used to shudder at the words ‘group fitness class’ but after awhile you realise no one is watching you. They are focusing on not falling face first on their mat (been their, done that). Group fitness classes are highly motivating and often you will find yourself being pushed harder than you could push yourself. Variety is the spice of life and with group fitness classes there is no shortage of different classes. I would recommend spin, yoga, pump or a Zumba class. Tribe Yoga, who are based in Edinburgh, host a variety of group fitness classes. Don’t forget to take your Sea Buckthorn cold brew along with you and stay hydrated.

3. HIIT exercise (High Intensity Interval Training)

Have you heard of HIIT training? There are a variety of different ways to do HIIT. One example of HIIT is simply running at different speeds. If you have access to a treadmill a good way to start is by jogging on the treadmill for three minutes and then running (safely but with some speed) for two minutes. Repeat and do it for as long as you are comfortable. If you don’t have a treadmill lying around, you can do this outside. Simply jog or walk to a  lamp post and sprint to the other, repeat until it is time for an Isle of Harris G&Tea!

Read about the benefits of HIIT here

Read about different forms of HIIT here

4. Low intensity exercise

Although HIIT is a highly effective way of working out and improving your fitness, not all of us can do it. We may have bad knees, backs or shoulder issues. There is no excuse though because there are plenty of low intensity exercises you can do. Try swimming, low-intensity yoga, a mindful walk or even a stretching session. Stretching can help your muscles recover but always check with a health care professional before starting.

5. Exercise with Netflix

That’s correct, it is possible. Run on the treadmill or bike at the gym while watching your favourite show. If you like to work out at home, complete your floor exercises with Netflix playing next to you (hello, is this heaven?). Your favourite TV show can help you take your mind off the fact that you are in any pain and could mean you workout for longer than you normally would (#winning).

6. Join a sports team

Join your local rugby team, football team, netball team, running group or dance group. Whatever tickles your fancy, there is a team or group for you. Team sports are tremendous fun, a great way to make new friends and get fit! Be the best team player and take some Cranberry and Apple Riot cold brew tea for the team to enjoy at half time!

7. YouTube saves the day

You tube has endless amounts of work-outs on it from the Call Me Maybe Squat Challenge (link below) to 30 days of Yoga. The best thing? It’s free! And you can do it from the comfort of your own home (yippeee!). Just make sure to swing by a group fitness class every now and again to make sure your form is correct which will help to prevent injury.

8. Life is about more than your fitness

Being fit is great, but being healthy is amazing. Health encompasses a whole range of things including eating well, moving your body regularly, working up a sweat and having good mental health. Exercise is great for your mental health as it releases endorphins and when accompanied with eating well it can lead to weight loss and increased levels of fitness. The most important thing, though, is happiness and balance so if you can not stomach a workout, don’t stress; plan to go on a simple walk or enjoy a nourishing cup of tea with your favourite book.  Even if what you are doing feels minimal,  you are lapping everyone who is on the couch!

Show us what you are up to…

Let us know if you did anything to celebrate National Fitness Day. Tweet us or send us a DM @eteaket. We love hearing from you.

Would you like to be part of our tea tribe? Sign up here to receive all sorts of benefits.

If you are looking at starting a new fitness regimen make sure to check with your doctor first and a health and fitness professional.

As promised the Call Me Maybe squat challenge

Sophie xx