Fighting Fit
With gyms closed, Manchester women have found their own ways of keeping fit.
Coronavirus restrictions have seen many of us turn to home fitness programmes to stave off the extra pounds. Others have rediscovered the joys of the great outdoors.
After her gym closed, 72-year-old Brenda Mallon joined friends at a Didsbury running group for the first time.
“I’ve never run in my life, except to catch the bus, so I thought I’d give it a try,” says the retired psychotherapist.
Setting off on a Couch to 5K programme in July, Brenda is now running for 35 minutes, three times a week.
“I didn’t expect at 72 to take up running or to stick with it, but the support and encouragement of the group have been pivotal in keeping me going.”
For clinical psychologist, Wendy MacDonald, exercise has played an important role during the last nine months. But like many of us, fired up with lockdown fitness fervour, a too-rigorous combination of running and Joe Wicks workouts left Wendy nursing injuries.
“Thankfully, by the time the lockdown was eased, I was able to go back to my running group and I am now running three to four times a week,” she says.
“I notice the beneficial impact it has on my mood and sleep and am grateful to my running pals for keeping me entertained.”
For those who have space, working out at home has proved a convenient (and cheaper!) alternative to the gym. Jan Iceton has converted her dining room into a workout studio, complete with rowing machine, spin bike and free weights. The home gym is vital as Jan, who is Chair of Smart Works Greater Manchester, prepares for a big fundraiser in aid of the female employment charity. Cycle for Smart Works will see teams of five cycle 500 miles in the week leading up to International Women’s Day on 8 March.
Despite the home set-up, Jan looks forward to returning to the gym when she feels safe to do so.
Read the full article on Open Up South Manchester