Becoming an Olympian requires years of dedication and commitment. Alongside a tough training routine, there are many components that contribute to becoming an Olympic athlete. As many of us continue to work from home, there are small things you can do to ensure that you get the most out of your day, and who better to hear it from than an Olympic athlete? We spoke with Louisa Gurski, a Gympass personal trainer and an Olympic Kayaker that competed in London 2012 and the Rio 2016 Olympic games to find out five easy changes you can make to ensure you make everyday count.
1. Aim to workout in the morning.
Set a good mood for the day, you always feel good after exercise! Once done, your metabolism is boosted and you have set a good tone for the day. To avoid that sofa slump at the end of the day, plus people are too tired or busy with family to do a workout.
2. Make the most of the delicious British fruit and vegetables at the moment.
There is nothing better than eating fresh fruit and vegetables in season. To support local business during these tricky times, look to buy at your local farmers market. Fresh strawberries, cherries and raspberries… what could be better?! Wizz them up, freeze them, make an afternoon of it and go blackberry picking!
3. Take a break from your computer / screen every hour.
Research shows we are productive for 52 minutes, then have a 17 minute break. Make the most of those breaks! Change your activity, go for a power walk around the block, make a cup of tea or put the washing on / in. Giving those eyes a break and relieve any tension in your neck, shoulders and back.
4. Leave your house and get some fresh air.
Following Government guidelines and social distancing, a change of scenery, fresh air and sunshine (fingers crossed for a lovely British Summer!) Is always good to blow away any cobwebs. Even if it is raining, don’t let that stop you… just get that umbrella out!
5. Be organised and plan ahead.
Easier said than done, but planning is key to keeping on tops of things. Outlook calendar can be used for not only meetings, but reminders. Enable your partner access and you have a strong team in balancing family life, work and / or childcare. Set reminders, To Do’s and notes for the next morning so you don’t forget and you can switch off from work and have your downtime with friends and family.
