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Weights
This page started off life as a page which would hold links to the workouts I do and a guide as to which program I have
been following. As time progressed, I have started to use the Data Monster blog to do this, so the emphasis has shifted away from rigid programs and more towards 'how to build your own program'.
I have a list of Exercises which I dip into. These are for home based workouts. You need a bench or a swiss ball, a set of dumbbells, a
medicine ball and some dynabands.
I use the principle of splitting the body into chest, shoulders, triceps and abs one day and biceps, back,
legs and abs the next. The first split are mostly pushing actions, and the the second are mostly pulling actions.
I guess I follow a progressive resistance program, in that I try to increase either weight or number of reps at each session.
I have tried plenty of programs, but as life has a tendency to get in the way and then I get confused and worried about
what happens to the missed workouts (do you do them again, or lose them? When is too long a break between sessions to
justify starting from scratch and other such musings???), so now I do each workout and record it in the blog.
I read way too many magazines and keep the workouts from them. I dip into these for inspiration now and again,
to keep things interesting.
Running
I was never a runner at school. I remember coming last at the 400m when I was around 13 and it put me off for years.
Built as I am, I am not a natural athlete, but enjoyed exercise of the gym variety on and off for most of my twenties.
I found the cross trainer and circuits classes a good way of keeping in shape. I also dabbled in orienteering in my
mid-twenties, but this was under duress rather than a desire for the running aspect. I plodded around and had it not
been for my map reading abilities I would have hated it. Again, something which put me off running!
Then in 2004 I decided to run the 5k Race for Life. I started running in March and although I am still officially
run/walk, I seem to quite like it! The solitude of running along the pavements and the satisfaction of a job well done
when you get back in the front door are SO much better than being stuck in a hot sweaty noisy gym, even when it's raining
outside.
I find the Runners World website a great source of inspiration - especially as they recognise that there ARE people out there who run/walk and that
not everyone wants to finish a sub-45 minute 10K.
I also love the Girls Run Too website and they have a great run/walk program for beginners.
Tests
Push Up Test
Sit Up Test
Rockport Fitness Walking Test (VO2max)
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