Staying active brings so many benefits including improving both your mental and physical health, but we can appreciate that it can be challenging to stay active during the winter months, especially with the cold weather and the shorter amount of daylight hours.
We catch up with founder of B-Fit Health & Fitness Club and fitness expert, Brett Sheppard to find out the latest about the new gym, tips for staying motivated throughout the colder months and how you can start your fitness journey…
How long has B-Fit Health & Fitness Club been running for?
It will be 7 years in April, we were actually the first personal training and small group coaching studio to have opened in Pembrokeshire at the time, since then 10 more have opened.
We’ve heard the announcement that B-Fit Health & Fitness Club have moved and expanded to Haven’s Head Retail Park, how exciting! Have you got a date set for the official opening and what will your opening times be?
The new gym is scheduled to officially open on Saturday 1st April 2023. We are open 24/7, our customers all have an app on their phone where you can just click a button which opens the door, this is also ideal for anyone visiting the area who want to access the gym whenever they want.
Are there any new facilities and features that you’ll be offering?
We offer 24/7 access to the gym facilities, providing members with the flexibility to work out on their own schedule. Additionally, the gym offers small group coaching classes and personal training sessions to help members reach their fitness goals. The gym will also feature recovery rooms with hot and cold therapy options, as well as cycling sessions.
With a wide range of offerings, our new gym has something for everyone, whether you're looking to improve your overall fitness, recover from an injury, or train for a specific event, the gym's team of experienced trainers and coaches can help you achieve your goals!
Are you offering any promotions at the moment?
Until we officially open, we are offering free taster sessions for those who may be interested. Head over to our website to book your free session.
During the winter months, it can be it difficult to stay motivated, do you have any tips for staying active?
- Prioritise your sleep! Make sure to get enough sleep each night and try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Get outside for some fresh air and natural light, even if it's just for a few minutes as the exposure to natural light can help boost both your energy and mood.
- Incorporate some high-intensity interval training (HIIT) into your workout routine. This type of training can help boost your energy levels and improve your overall fitness.
- Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet. Proper nutrition and hydration can help keep your energy levels up.
- Find an activity that you enjoy! Whether it's dancing, skiing, or rock climbing, whatever you choose, make it a regular part of your routine.
- Try to get some sunlight exposure in the morning (weather permitting of course!), it can help regulate your circadian rhythm (a natural, internal process that regulates the sleep–wake cycle) and give you a boost in the morning.
- Break a sweat at least once a day, even if it's just for a short period of time, this will help to increase your body temperature and make you feel more awake and energized.
- Have a hot bath before bed, it can help regulate your body temperature and help you get into deep sleep faster.
- Take breaks during the day to move around and stretch. Practicing deep breathing can also help with energy and focus.
- Lastly, be kind to yourself, if you miss a workout or don't feel like working out, don't beat yourself up! Remember that progress is not always linear, and consistency is key.
As a Health & Fitness Club who welcomes all, the first step is most often the hardest, what advice do you have for beginners to help them start their fitness journey?
- Start small and set realistic goals. It's important to set goals that are achievable and not too overwhelming for a beginner.
- Find an activity that you enjoy and have fun! Whether it's swimming, cycling, yoga or weightlifting, you’ll be more motivated to do an activity you actually enjoy and will find it easier to make it a regular part of your routine.
- Get professional guidance and support. A personal trainer or coach can help you create a personalized workout plan, correct your form, and provide you with motivation and encouragement.
- Take it step by step and don't compare yourself to others. Remember that everyone starts at a different level and it's important to focus on your own progress.
- Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts over time. This will help you avoid injury and burnout and will also help you see progress in your fitness level.
- Listen to your body. If you're feeling tired or in pain, take a break and rest. It's important to respect your body's limits and not push too hard.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help. Whether it's from a coach, a trainer, or a fellow gym member, don't be afraid to ask for help or advice.
- Try to make fitness a part of your daily routine. This will help it become a habit and make it easier to stick to.
- Start tracking your progress. Keeping track of your progress will help you see how far you've come and will keep you motivated.
- Lastly, remember that fitness is a journey, not a destination. It's important to enjoy the process and not focus too much on the end goal.