Tag Archives: fitness

A tennis Masterclass with Judy Murray

21 Jun

It’s lovely when I get the opportunity to do something for me and last week I got just that!

Now I’m no super star tennis player, in fact, in till recently I couldn’t even hit the ball. But I do like tennis and have always wished I could actually play.

So when your invited to a 2 hour master class with Judy Murray coach and mother to Andy Murray, you jump at such an opportunity.

I was frilled to be invited by Highland Spring one of the sponsors of the Aegon Championships which ran from the 11-17 June to come along and do just that.

So, on the 14th of June myself and sister (now fellow blogger) put on our trainers (something I rarely do) and headed up to Queens London. It was the 4th day of the Aegon Championships and the place was lively with excited tennis spectators.

We met with the lovely Eve (PR for Highland Spring) and headed of to the practice courts for some action.

Judy and her team were lovely. They took time to give each one of us (their was 8 of us in total) some one on one tips to help us improve our game and can you believe it, Judy had me hitting the ball in under 5 minutes.

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The Masterclass was a real enjoyable way to build up a sweat and get some exercise. I learnt all the basics and actually by the end I couldn’t wait to get home and buy myself a racket.

Following this intense Masterclass we all got into something more comfortable and headed of to the VIP Crown Club for some champers and strawberries. Wow this was a VIP experience, one I don’t get on a daily basis (wishing).

It was lovely to relax and chat with Judy who told us a little about what its like to be mother of the super star tennis player “Andy Murray”

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A fabulous day was had and I’d like to thank Judy Murray and her team, plus the guys at Highland Spring for inviting me.

If your attending Britsmum Live I’ve heard that Judy Murray is now attending. Shes lovely so make sure you all say hello.

Update – Davina for Next

13 Feb


Last week was a busy one, so I apologise for my late update! On the plus side, I’ve likely done more exercise than I actually think I did, what with all the rushing around! So, I’ve continued with the Davina ultimate workout and fell both on and off the diet wagon more times than I care to mention. I’m yet to take up any form of running but continue to engage in some power walking (unless with the toddler, this is like walking at a snail’s pace)! I’ve walked around our local woods so many times in the past 4 weeks, I could tell you where the squirrel’s hide their nuts!

Sadly, I didn’t do much dancing last week, unless you include my antics at the Lollibop mini disco at the ‘Ministry of Sound’ London, or that of me shaking my butt to a bit of Kiss 100 every morning as I go about doing the horrible task of get the kids out of bed and ready for school (it all counts doesn’t it)!

Most importantly, I’m feeling somewhat better within myself. I’m eating at reasonable hours, despite the odd slip, as well as making simple lifestyle changes that are now fitting into with my daily routine without much difficulty, I mean, it’s not so much of a struggle, I’m naturally making healthier choices without feeling like its a chore! I’ve also found that I am actually much more motivated now then I was a week ago, maybe it just took a while to kick in.
Last week I faced the fear of having to brave my swimsuit in order to take the toddler swimming. I continued to declare I just didn’t have time, but if the truth be told, deep down, It’s the fact that I’m still not comfortable in the way my body looks since baby number 3. Swimming is something that will help me get back in my size 8’s, so to avoid it seems a little crazy (plus Harley is two now and has never been, I can’t be holding him back due to my own body hang ups)!

Now as we start a new week, I’ll also be preparing to write my last update, Yep, it’s all going to be finished, leaving myself and my fellow 9 ‘Davina for Next’ virtual workout buddies, to our own devices. Last week I was a bit worried that I’ll just let it slip when it’s over, one week will turn into two weeks and before you know it I’m back to my old ways! I thought that without the need to send a weekly report I may just sit eating lashings of dessert as I watch Eastenders, going back for seconds and maybe thirds! I actually think I was just having a low week and wasn’t thinking about it properly. You see, I will continue on my journey to get back in my size 8’s and make lifestyle changes that will stick with me, because I want it so much, I want to do this for myself! I really won’t need to share and I’m sure as hell, you’ll all have had enough of my battle to combat the flab anyway! 🙂

So with only one more post to write, I thought that this would be a great time to share some of the lessons I’ve learnt from having started this journey to get fit with Davina and Next!

◆ We, all fall of the diet wagon from time to time, beating ourselves up in the process only makes us depressive, looking for comfort in something sweet. So, instead of embarking on a chocolate eating frenzy, I tell myself off and jump back on the diet wagon.

A diet rich in soy and whey protein, found in ...

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◆ We often become more motivated when we have failed at something! If I notice I’m actually gaining a few pounds as opposed to shifting them, I’m disappointed, though it makes me all the more determined to kick my own arse the following week!
◆ Stop being so restrictive! Yes, this one makes me feel like a hypocrite as its one I know to be true, though I do struggle with. You see, I know by putting yourself on a really tight diet you will drop it quicker, but like they say… It’s just as easy and speedy to stick it back on! Not only this, I find myself, moody, irritable, and not all that nice to be around. I’m therefore trying to be less extreme and more realistic yet happy.

◆ If like me, you have a serious disliking to the weighing scales then just don’t go near them. I really dislike weighing myself, it can determine my whole mood for the day and I don’t want to be worrying myself stupid every time I gain a pound or two! I instead go by my dress size and the way my clothes fit. You know when you’re losing weight or toning up in many ways, scales only make you obsessive, I know as it ruined a good few years of my life.

English: Libya. Weighing_scale. 2008.

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◆ An important one, that I myself discovered last week, (the hard way) is don’t push yourself to far when your body is telling you you’re getting sick! I think a certain amount of light exercise when uncomfortable (example the time of the month) is a great way to feeling more you again plus it also helps create natural pain relief, however, when you feel like you’re coming down with a horrible flu then rest! I didn’t, I ignored it, and ended up in bed recovering from a horrid flu that then converted itself into the worse ever stomach flu. I know, that for the 3 days I battled on ignoring the messages given off  by my body and that’s why it caught up with me and likely put me out of action longer than It probably would have done if I sweated it out in bed from the start.image from google docs

◆ Eating little and often makes calories easier to burn off, while only eating till your full will likely be the real key to success. My mother always told me as a whining child claiming I was starving not long after lunch, to drink some water! It’s so true, we often mistake thirst for hunger!
◆ When that dreaded time of the month hits and you feel yourself reaching for that family bar of Cadbury dairy milk, grab a handful of Cherry plum tomatoes that have been stored in the fridge, instead. Ok, I’m not going to lie… of course this isn’t the same (give me the family bar over a tom any day of the week) however, they are nice and actually really juicy and sweet! For me it helps put the sweet craving at bay which is just brilliant as monthly’s are usually the time when my willpower runs of without me.

English: A Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate bar, f...

Image via Wikipedia


◆ You really can exercise while sitting on your back-side! Once you have it nailed, you find your engaging in such a task without realising it. When sitting watching my favourite programme… let’s say… “BBC3 Being human, which was on last night & I love it, I’ll do some pelvic floor exercises (so, important and  just doesn’t apply to those new mothers) then I’ll do some leg lifts or when actually really in the mood and trying, I’ll sit on the exercise bike for half an hour or so. I’ve discovered that it’s these little extra things that end up amounting to big differences and once done once or twice they come naturally without becoming a dreaded chore! If I forget one night, it doesn’t matter, I’ll still gain from them,  tomorrow!
◆ Walk as opposed to driving or using any other forms of transportation (buses, taxis etc…) OK, if we are talking long haul distances then go on… I’m with you if you wanna start the car up, but those journeys within walking distance will leave you feeling better (probably not at the time) and will also help you reach any goals quicker. This is especially the case if you are shopping. I’f my bags are heavy but I can mange regardless of a little struggle, I then refuse to call a taxi. Instead I focus on landmarks to help me get back without putting the bags to the ground and wiping the sweat from my forehead just 2 minutes up the hill (yes, I
have to walk the shopping up the hill)! Once I’ve reached the landmark, example traffic lights, I may be half way there, so I then focus on something else, It really seems to work well and is not only a great way to shift calories and tone the tops of your arms, but a good way to penny pinch too!

I was  going to share some pictures of myself in my Davina for next clothing and give an update on whether my chosen pieces have withstood the test of time, especially that of the washing machine. However, given that this is now my final week and in a few short days I’ll give you my final update, I’ve decided to save them till then, when I’ll also share some recipes, ideas, my highs and lows, progress and final thoughts! After all… I want to finish on a bang!

So to discover my final last words and see some photos I was thinking about burning… then get yourselves over here on Wednesday the 15th February

Making Progress with Davina

3 Feb

Getting fit with Davina and Next has been a blast and sadly we are now coming up to our last few weeks of the challenge. 😦 

 This week has been intense as I’ve struggled to get back onto the “Diet Wagon” though with the receiving of a gift from the those lovely people at Next and Davina herself, I have managed to keep going on the exercise front. Yes, I was sent the all new “Davina, Ultimate Target” DVD and have done the workout at least 4 times this week. It would also seem that I have inspired my 9 year old daughter because every time I turn around their she is working out beside me, bless her.

The DVD consists of a “Fabulous Fat Burner” Cardio workout with funky Latino moves, “Brillent Boot Camp” A squats and toning fest, “Target Abs” fifteen minutes of tummy toning and lastly “Target Workouts” 3 short but effective routines targeting specific problem areas such a them horrid bingo wings, summer shoulders and bikini bum.

I am loving the DVD and the fact it aims to sort this specific problem areas is nothing short of a god send!

 There is some more good news this week! I’ve not had one Redbull… NOT ONE! So, I’m feeling pretty pleased with myself on that front.

 I do at times worry, that without this challenge, I will flake and fall back into my old dirty ways (well, I say dirty, what I mean is lazy)! Yes, I’m enjoying it and I think this should be enough to get me going, though I’m just so used to worrying I guess that explains the reason I’m doing so now. I do however have my picture of my old sized 8 super bod and that of Davina’s super abs which I’m sure will be all the kick in the backside I need. 

 I’ve continued with my crunches and struggled on with my push ups. I’m enjoying long walks in the park with the toddler and having fun dancing with the 9-year-old daughter! 

 I’ve done loads of skipping with Little man and if anything this is turning into a family fitness plan.

 Next week I intend on doing my new Davina DVD workout DVD every night before bed… I may even brave it and share a clip of me doing it… (of course with Alice by my side)! Otherwise I’ll just carry on with what I’m doing (apart from eating like a piggy)!

 I’m also planing on trying some Zumba, as I’ve been inspired by the lovely Clairejustinoxox who has been way braver than myself in sharing a video of herself working out (umm, yes, maybe next week). I’m also considering doing a little running as opposed to power walking, though I’m a little worried about “Killing myself” in the process.

Above: Some of my many Workout DVD’s

 I do hope you are all enjoying my journey to get fit and would love to hear your own stories or any super tips you may have (all are very welcome)!

Checkout some some the fabulous “Davina for Next” workout wear by clicking HERE

Davina for Next – Week 3

27 Jan

Its week three of my journey to keep fit as one of ten parent bloggers sharing our experiences as part of the Next blogging network and in celebration of the launch of the Davina for Next’ new fitness collection.

I had planned to write this update on Wednesday, but life being life didn’t permit it. Still, better late than never.

So… have I been good?

Well, sort of!

This week was tough and although I did pretty good on the workout front, the diet didn’t go so well! I guess 1 out of 2 isn’t two bad. My excuse is, it’s nearing that dreaded time of the month and my body just arched for some bad but incredible good tasting chocolate and the odd cream cake. Yes, I felt a little guilty having polished one of, hence the reason, I properly had another. 😦

Nonetheless, I continued with my crunches, squats and push ups and worked out to a few dance videos over the week.

My aim for this week would have to be getting back on track with the healthy eating plan, as well as working out to my dance DVDs on a daily basis.

Sadly I still haven’t managed to make it to the swimming pool or have a night out dancing, though these are still on my “todo” list!

As for my beautiful red slab shoes from the Davina for Next collection of innovative footwear, I’ve worn them almost daily and they are still in perfect condition (not a single mark on them) they are just so comfortable and the high number of complements I’ve been given in regard to these shoes, is overwhelming. I know a few of the other girls on the plan love them and a few of my readers have even order themselves a pair (ladies you really wont be disappointed, these shoes are great).

To finish up, I’ll leave you with this exclusive video form the lovely Davina McCall herself.  I was sent it last week from the lovely PR who works for Next and I must say I found it to be very inspirational and motivating.

Enjoy…

Davina for Next – Week 2

19 Jan

As I write this, I am dying to run downstairs and munch one of the soft, sugary ring donuts the other half brought home for the children! The fact that I am still here, not there, shows how my flaking willpower has started its journey in repairing itself!

Yes, it’s now my second week on the road to fitness with the help of Next, Davina MCcall and 9 other bloggers (who have all been very supportive, via twitter and commenting here on the blog).

So… How was week one?

On the food front, I’m hanging in there, its hard, I cannot deny! Yet, I am proud of myself and how I’m sticking to a healthier eating plan (I’ve only had chocolate once this week, and that my friends, is a miracle)! I’m now eating healthier options which this week has consisted of mainly foods high in portion reducing my carb in-take a little. I’ve also eaten at more sensible hours and I have tried to ensure that nothing crosses these lips in the late hours.

What about RedBull Lights, I hear you asking? Well, I haven’t stopped drinking these completely, id be a liar if I said I have, though what I can report is, I’m now drinking a huge amount less of the horrid addictive stuff than I was before I started my health kick… No more than one can per-day and yesterday I had not a drop (massive improvement from the five cans I’m used too)! This one isn’t easy, the stuff is addictive like coffee… but worse if I’m honest!

Exercise

For the first 4 days it was going so well! I did most of what I planed to do, with the exception of dog walking (my mother embarks on such a task at the strangest of hours, with three kids to parent, my mum has done her duties alone). I’ve also not been swimming or clubbing on a Friday night, more to the petty! I did buy a gym ball (the peanut kind) and I admit I went crazy and brought not one but 5 fitness DVDs and have tried a few. Everything on the plan was going really well, then four days in I was struck down with a horrid flu bug and exercise was the last thing on my mind, so I’ve basically spent three days struggling to climb out of bed! Nonetheless, I’m starting to feel like myself again and I plan to make up for lost time and up my todo list this week.

There was however, a nice surprise on Saturday afternoon that helped brighten up a rather gloomy day! My new Next FIT shoes, available via the ‘Davina for Next’ innovative footwear range, arrived at my door.

These are my beautifully shiny red pantent corsage slab shoes, equipped with the new ‘Next FIT’ technology!

Lovely, don’t you think?

Not only do these shoes look lovely but they are really comfortable too! I have to say, when I first saw them, I really never expected them to be so comfortable to wear! There was no new shoe blisters or no aching feet, and since they have arrived, I’ve worn them on most days and even in the house like slippers. Choosing a pair of shoes from the Davina range was the hardest task for me, I choose my fitness outfit within a few minutes but I seriously studied the pages of the Next Website that host these innovative shoes, and it took me the best part of an hour to decide. They do the slab shoes in one or two designs and in a range of colours, I’m seriously considering getting myself a black pair too. At £31, I feel they are very good value, if anything a bit of a bargain!

So… enough about shoes (this crazy loving shoe mum, could talk shoes all day)! Let me finish by jotting down and sharing my goals for the week ahead.

Goals for Week 2

All of the goals recorded in week one can stay with the exception of dog walking, this just isn’t gonna work! I’m upping the pace a little to make up for the past three days sickness and have decided to do this by upping the number of sit-ups and push-ups by adding 20 more on each, and I will also do a few more squats (Yer… I love squats really)!

I’ve now got a gym ball which I’m loving! I will incorporate this more into my daily exercise routine (yes, instead of just siting on it)!

I’m also hoping to have a Friday night on the dance floor this week or next, so all you fellow bloggers, come fitness freaks (aka fellow 9 Davina for Next bloggers) you fancy getting your groove on? I say let’s go swing our pants and have some serious fun getting fit!

So… that’s it

Till next week… its good-bye 🙂

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Davina for Next, working out in style

31 Dec

If any of you read my last post regarding New years resolutions you will know I’ve decided to keep them to myself! However, I did mention the fact that I would be participating in a number of keep fit programmes (whether I last the course is yet to be seen).

So, when I joined up to the Next bloggers network and discovered that Davina McCall had teamed up with Next to launch a new fitness range of clothing and footwear I was eager to learn all about it and hopefully get a sneaky peek of the range which is due to launch in spring 2012.

When I was pregnant with Harley now 2, It was the Davina Pre and post pregnancy DVD that I followed. I was actually as huge as a house with Harley, it didn’t help that he was such a big baby but I found the DVD really easy to follow although I did get lazy and slacked a bit during my third trimester.

Considering it’s now 2 years since he was born and I’m still struggling to zip up my jeans, I’ve decided something has to be done!

If I have to work out to get the body I desire, I at least wanna look hot in the process (and no, I don’t mean all flashed and sweaty, I mean smoking hot). Yet, when I think about fitness wear I have this horrid vision of tight unflattering Lycra and cycling shorts that show of some of my most undesirable areas, one’s I’d rather keep hidden.

Well, it would seem that both Davina and Next have made it their mission to create a range that resembles nothing of that above. The ‘Devina for Next’ range that will be launching in the Next Directory, online at next.co.uk and at selected stores, provides us with not only the ultimate workout range but also a great selection of post workout clothing along with a range of innovative everyday footwear featuring dual density technology to reduce stress on joints.

Here’s what Davina McCall had to say about the range

“My approach was to concentrate on what I would wear. I’ve thought very carefully about the details that matter to me, like a place for an MP3 player, or reflective strips on the bottoms – essential when you’re jogging in the early morning or at dusk. And I’ve ensured the workout tops are extremely solid and secure so your boobs won’t be bobbing around while you’re working out!”

I’m no flat chested Moma so this was like music to my ears, bobbing bobs isn’t the look I’m aiming for!

The range does sound delightful, the idea of having a place to pop my MP3 is fantastic, like many I’m motivated when listening to some of my favourite upbeat dance tracks and really couldn’t see myself jogging without earphones hanging from my ears.

There really is something for everyone, whether you prefer to go for a run, engage in some aerobics or maybe Pilates is more you’re thing? With modern shapes stunning colours and comfortable fabrics the Davina for Next range ensures that you can do it in both comfort and style.

Here’s a few key pieces that I myself fancy putting to the test.

As for footwear, most know I’m a bit of a shoe junkie so was pleased to discover that there were some lovely stylish everyday shoes on the menu. The fact that these are not only advertised to provide comfort but performance and muscle activation makes them so much more appealing (and there was me assuming such technology was restricted to trainers only)!

Cute round toe ballerina pumps in red and neon pink patent are just a few of the fabulous designs on offer. These sleek shoes designed to reduce stress on load bearing joints have been designed with NEXT’s dual density mid-sole technology which gives me an even bigger reasons to indulge my love for shoes.

I have to admit, the pretty ballerina pumps are my favourite.

For those of you looking for something that bit different, why not check out Davina’s ultra-feminine trainers, embellished with bands of shimmering bright candy colours that promise to exert 25% less pressure on the ball of the foot, or some floral print canvas pumps designed to decrease heel impact.

I’m pretty excited for the launch, whether I’ll look as great as the lady behind them, will depend on this mummy’s motivation.

Bring it on Davina 🙂

Scooting is much more fun with Scooterearz

22 Sep

I love writing a blog, not only is it a way to help me relax, reach out, raise awareness, share and vent, it also brings me some awesome opportunities, testing some of the latest products to hit the market.

 Scooterearz, is one of them awesome products,

and here’s why!


If your child has a scooter, then you will relate when I say, “Kids like to take them everywhere” (Well, mine do). This is fine, I’m a mum who’s cool with that, after all it’s a great way for your children to stay fit and active.

However, when them summer days are turning cold, things are not so simple. Little man loves using his scooter, yet in the winter I’ve discovered that I’m the one dragging the scooter up the road because his decided his hands are much to cold to have out of his pockets. Yes, there are gloves, but this makes it harder to get a firm comfortable grip on the handle bars, therefore giving less control over the scooter. (which isn’t great with Little man’s motor skills) Little man also has sensory sensitivities (especially tactile) so he can’t seem to tolerate gloves for to long, preferring the fingerless type which isn’t ideal when out on your scooter.

That’s why I was interested in finding out more about this new product, ‘Scooterearz’.

 Here’s what the founders say…

Founded: October 2010

About: A brand new product designed to keep those little fingers warm in those cooler months.

Description: Scooterearz is a universal weatherproof hand warmer to be used specifically on children’s push along scooters. They stay attached to the scooter handlebars (although can be transferred easily ) and keep children’s hands snuggly warm.

Our Scooterearz came is a nice clear sturdy bag that can be used to keep and store your hand warmers in! We were sent the Dark blue Scooterearz with the red outer thread. There are a number of other colours you can choose from therefore offering something suitable for both girls & boys.

  Little man was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to review the new Maxi micro scooter a few months back, so the scooterearz makes the perfect accessory while keeping the little guys fingers all lovely a cosy. 

 It was pretty hard to fully appreciate the product for its true potential given the weather was still pretty nice when they arrived! Then suddenly yesterday I noticed how cool the evenings had become! At around 8pm I decided to take Little man out on his scooter to burn of some energy to enable him to settle and therefore sleep once home (Yes, little man has problems with his sleeping so getting him to burn of some excess energy is a good idea). 

 At home on my Mac, already sat a review on the Scooterearz, yet I felt it deserved so much better, a real good  testing in the appropriate conditions and weather!

 Little man instantly took to the hand warmer, despite the fact it is waterproof  (the waterproof material normally drives him up and around the bend) but Scooterearz has a cosy fluffy lining, removing that tactile experience for the little man. 

 Little man reported how his hands were nice and warm, the material was nice and cosy and he was still able to have a firm grip, maintaining full control of his scooter. 

 My daughter also had a go on her scooter (not a micro scooter, one she’s actually had a few years and due an upgrade) despite his fact the scooterearz still fitted to the handlebars of her scooter without any issues at all.

 What I do love about the product is the fact that once the Scooterearz are attached to the handlebars (one on each side) they can remain there, but can be easily removed if & when desired. 

We even tried it one the handlebars of little man’s bike which provided the same comfort.

 We really like Scooterearz and feel it’s an awesome new product at a really reasonable price of just £12.99 RRP.

The full product launch is set for autumn, though you can already buy Scooterearz from a selected number of online stores or direct form scooterearz themselves, Right NOW. 

Visit the site for a full list of retailers now stocking Scooterearz or buy direct. CLICK HERE

What’s everyone else think about Scooterearz?

Check out a few of my “follow mummy bloggers” to see what they have to say about Scooterearz

Busy mum of 3

The lovely Mummy bird (including a giveaway of a scooterearz to one of her lucky readers. Closes 3rd Oct)

Loved by Lexi

and one of my favourite review sites: Bubbaloves

As part of the big launch Scooterearz are offering some amazing offers to schools

Scooterearz Schools Promotion!
Your school can earn 20% of all sales of Scooterarz in our Schools Promotion – If your school or nursery would like to take part contact us 

info@scooterearz.com

Visit the Scooterearz facebook page where all the different colours and designs will be displayed. They are also in the process of launching their new and improved website any day now and will celebrate this by offering introductory offers and other exciting opportunities. Click HERE.

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