Should you eat before a workout?
Should you eat before a workout? What kinds of things should you eat post-workout? Read on to find…
What is hydration?
Hydration defined Hydration is the process of introducing additional fluids to the body, enhancing its state of hydration.…
Keeping active as it gets colder
It gets harder to stay naturally active as it gets colder. As the temperature starts dropping, your habits…
How to eat healthily on the go
If you have a busy lifestyle which includes a lot of travelling or time away from home, it…
How to generate motivation for fitness
It can be difficult at times to generate motivation for fitness. We humans are complex. We know something…
5 quick home-cooked dinners
Are you looking for some quick, home-cooked dinners that support your goals and work great as meal prep?…
Should you eat before a workout?
Should you eat before a workout? What kinds of things should you eat post-workout? Read on to find out more! Eating before or after a workout It is best to eat both before and after exercise. Obviously eating too closely isn’t ideal as you might end up feeling sick but providing your body with…
What is hydration?
Hydration defined Hydration is the process of introducing additional fluids to the body, enhancing its state of hydration. As the human body comprises about 70% water, it’s essential for various bodily functions and maintaining a good quality of life. The role of electrolytes Electrolytes are gel or liquid solutions that conduct electricity when dissolved…
Franchisee Case Study – Guy Warner (Bishop’s Cleeve)
With a long-standing career in the retail industry, franchisee Guy Warner opened his first Anytime Fitness gym in 2023 as he grasped the chance to diversify his business portfolio. Having operated successful convenience stores and petrol stations across the Cotswolds for the past 20 years, Guy identified a significant opportunity to open a gym in…
Keeping active as it gets colder
It gets harder to stay naturally active as it gets colder. As the temperature starts dropping, your habits may start changing. Activities you take part in may end, friends may want to do different things and the lure of a cosy blanket can be hard to resist. In the depths of winter when you’re longing…
How to eat healthily on the go
If you have a busy lifestyle which includes a lot of travelling or time away from home, it can be challenging to eat healthily on the go. The temptation of quick and easy on-the-go food options doesn’t have to mean your nutrition and goals will be compromised. More than ever, there’s a huge range of…
Leading fitness franchise opens trio of new locations
Fitness franchise opens new sites in Birkenhead, Upminster and Leigh-on-Sea as new franchisee enquiries rise by 60% Leading gym provider Anytime Fitness has enjoyed a flurry of new openings in recent weeks, with three new locations opening their doors in Birkenhead, Leigh-on-Sea and Upminster. The openings showcase the leisure industry’s potential to breathe new life…
How to beat post-work tiredness
Want to beat post-work tiredness? Struggling to power through your to-do list after a long day? You’re not alone. In fact, 34% of people are too tired to complete their daily tasks. But fear not, because we’ve got some guidance to help you beat post-work tiredness and skyrocket your productivity. So, let’s explore how to…
How to boost your confidence
Everyone wants to feel confident in the gym, and for some the opposite may never have crossed their mind. However, feeling less than confident in the gym is a totally normal experience. Nearly half (43%) of people admit they have felt intimidated in a gym environment and a further 49% have been nervous and/or anxious…
What to expect from your free Anytime Fitness gym pass
Choosing the right gym can be a big decision, which is why we offer free one-day gym passes at Anytime Fitness. Having a free workout on us gives you the chance to speak to one of our friendly team, safely try out the equipment and decide if it’s the right environment and location for you.…
How to start eating healthier today
We know that embarking on a journey to eating healthier can seem like a daunting task, especially when faced with a mountain of confusing advice and kale smoothie recipes that look more like a chemistry experiment. But fret not, because we’re here to tell you that eating healthier doesn’t have to be rocket science. In…
How to plan a gym routine you will stick to
As with most things in life, the hardest thing is getting started. Whether that’s a new activity or lifestyle change, a gym routine is no different and it can often take time to settle in and find something that works for you. Our survey found that 30% of people want to get into or back…
10 simple things you can do to boost your energy
It’s inevitable that you will need to find ways to boost your energy from time to time. Our recent survey found that ‘I’m too tired’ is the number one reason that we put off tasks on our to-do lists, followed by ‘I don’t have time’ and ‘I don’t have the energy after a day at work’.…
10 tips to improve sleep
Are you looking for low-effort ways to improve sleep? Getting enough sleep is a particularly important part of recovering from the gym, or anything really as sleep is directly linked to your immune system and your body’s ability to repair and fight infection. It also plays a vital role in maintaining good mental health. To…
How to recover from DOMS
Are you suffering and want to know how to recover from DOMS? It’s extremely normal to suffer from delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) after trying new exercises or increasing the intensity and weights in your workout. DOMS will occur one to two days after your workout and can last up to 5 days in extreme…
Should you be training to failure?
When you exercise, should you be training to failure? In the quest for optimal fitness gains, you’ve likely heard around the gym that it’s necessary to push your body to its absolute limits and train to complete failure. But is this approach actually the key to unlocking remarkable results, and why do people swear by…
How long to rest between sets
Do you know how long to rest between sets? We’ve all been there, waiting for a piece of equipment or the weights to free up and the person occupying it is talking, texting or playing a game on their phone. It may be irritating, but there is often a good reason why someone is taking…
Beginner exercises for weight loss
Are you looking for simple, beginner exercises for weight loss? When just starting out at the gym or even trying to get into shape at home, finding straightforward and reliable workout information can be challenging, and with the overwhelming options and opinions, it’s difficult to know where to start. When it comes to weight loss,…
What is exercise ‘snacking’ and why does it work?
Even as little as 20 seconds brisk exercise such as taking the stairs instead of the lift, could be enough to improve fitness. In a recent study in the New York Times* scientists into interval style training found that as little as 20 seconds of brisk stair climbing, done several times a day, could be beneficial. Researchers called these ‘insta-workouts’ and without leaving their office or changing into active wear, significant health gains can be seen from these simple exercises.
How to find your health and wellbeing goals
Do you know how to find your goals? Behind almost every decision to join a gym or start a healthy routine is the motivation to achieve something. Goals come in many shapes and forms and can range from self-improvement, wanting to be the best version of yourself for an event or challenge or even just…
How to improve body image
Do you want to know how to improve your body image? You aren’t the only one. Nearly half of Brits (43%) feel the need to ‘’get fit” before joining a gym because they fear standing out. The truth is, the gym is a community of individuals striving to improve themselves—physically, mentally, and socially. There’s no…
Best breakfasts for exercise
The phrase ‘food is fuel’ is something that will be familiar to most of us and a lot of truth comes with it. In this blog, we’ll look at some breakfast ideas that can help support your health and wellbeing goals. For some of you, you may be used to working out on an empty…
What to wear to the gym
Do you know what to wear to the gym? For practical purposes or aesthetics, picking the right thing to wear to the gym can help lift your confidence. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a practical guide on what to wear to the gym, ensuring you look and feel your best while crushing…
Is it okay to go to the gym every day?
Is it okay to go to the gym every day? You may wonder this for several reasons. Seeing someone else doing the same may raise the question or you might find having the same routine every day keeps you from taking accidental breaks. First things first, going to the gym every day can be beneficial,…
How to plan a gym routine
Knowing how to plan a gym routine is essential for sticking to the gym and achieving your goals. Whether you’re a gym newbie or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, having a well-structured gym routine will help you stay motivated, track your progress, and make the most of your time at the gym. So, let’s dive into…
Should you work out on an empty stomach?
One of the most asked questions around exercise is whether we should work out on an empty stomach and if so, is it more beneficial for us? Before we dive into the detail, the easiest way to answer this question is to say that it must work for you and your routine. For many of…
The gym saved my mental health
As a busy secondary school teacher, exercise now forms an incredibly important part of Claudia’s lifestyle. With her working lifestyle preceded by a high-pressure degree, unfortunately, she hasn’t always been able to maintain a healthy lifestyle and has battled some mental challenges throughout her life. “I have battled against my mind for as long as…
What are wellbeing appointments?
Every member gets a series of wellbeing appointments when they join. These appointments are time set aside for you to go through your goals, create plans, work on other areas of health with a member of the gym’s team. There are three main appointments to schedule, but support and assistance does not stop when you’ve…
How I found the confidence to lift weights
After a friend introduced Clare to the gym she joined to better her form and try lifting heavier weights. Despite her nerves and experience with other gyms, she gave it a go and discovered a place she was comfortable in could build her confidence up in. “Since going to other gyms, I’ve been really scared…
How to be a good listener
Everyone needs someone to just listen every now and again. At the heart of good communication lies the skill of active listening. Being a good listener can help you understand and connect with people better, gain insights into their thoughts and feelings, and build trust and empathy. The first thing to do is establish if…
KAREN ROBINSON: HOW LEARNING TO LOVE EXERCISE AND MYSELF HELPED ME THROUGH THE MENOPAUSE
Having gone through life-changing menopause several years ago, Karen Robinson struggled with the changes to her body. With the multiple symptoms triggering both weight gain and severe anxiety, she knew she needed to make a change for her mental wellbeing. Establishing a new exercise seemed a natural place to start and after initially joining another…
How to be there for someone
One of the most important reasons we’ve partnered with Samaritans for Walk & Talk Week is to give people the opportunity to get moving and get talking about how they’re feeling. Whether that’s going for a coffee, a walk outdoors or maybe even a quick workout together, it’s essentially all about reaching out and being…
What to eat to lose weight
“What should I eat to lose weight?” is a question commonly put to Google, nutritionists and fitness experts. To start, there’s no one size fits all approach, and you should speak to your doctor before changing your diet. We also can’t cover every detail of healthy eating in just one article, but we can offer…
Tania Ross: The gym community became my support system
Tania joined Anytime Fitness while on her journey to recover from prolonged back pain. Trying something new can be nerve-racking but she found it was worth it! “I’m a nurse by background. However, I, unfortunately, sustained a serious back injury when I was only 25. It was caused by heavy lifting while working on…
Jamie Fry: how I started working out for me
Jamie didn’t always have a regular gym schedule, despite being active as a child, like many of us as football after school fazes out, he became less active and less sociable. Finding his place in the gym has led to a huge improvement in his self confidence and mental wellbeing. “I was 21 years old,…
How exercise helps mental wellbeing
We all know that exercise is good for our physical health, but did you know that it is also beneficial for our mental wellbeing? In this article, we will explore the connection between exercise and mental health and how you can incorporate exercise into your daily routine to improve your overall wellbeing. It makes…
JESS WILLERS: THE GYM HAS WORKED WONDERS FOR MY STRESS AND ANXIETY
As a mother with a busy lifestyle, Jess Willers has often struggled to put her health and wellbeing first. While she’s successfully lost weight on several occasions through diet alone, these positive physical changes unfortunately haven’t gone hand-in-hand with her mental wellbeing. “My weight has dramatically changed on multiple occasions over the years,” said Jess. “Losing…
What is Walk & Talk Week?
Walk & Talk Week brings together two things that are incredibly important; mental and physical wellbeing. The week is a partnership between us and Samaritans and encourages people to make time for themselves, get moving and get talking about how they’re feeling. With the weather improving and more daylight for us to enjoy, it gives…
How often should you work out?
How often should you work out? Adults should be doing some kind of physical activity every day, but that doesn’t mean you have to visit the gym or do the same workout 7 days a week. Overall, whatever exercise you’re doing should be spread over the whole week. This means you might go to the…
Should I lift heavy or light?
Should you use light or heavy weights in the gym? We’re going to look at this from a strength-building perspective, as it’s a common goal and extremely useful in daily life. This is often a heavily contested question, with personal preferences and exercise styles providing support for both sides. Thankfully, there has been plenty of…
Best workout for beginners
Now you’ve taken the leap to join or rejoin a gym, the next step is to get going with your new exercise routine. Everyone’s journey is different so it’s important to consider both your goals and your reasons for joining the gym as these will play a key part in what you want to do…
What are compound lifts?
“Compound lifts” is a term commonly used in the fitness space. There’s often an assumption that people will already know exactly what this means and why they should be paying attention to these lifts. We’re going to cover all of this so you leave this post confident in your understanding of what compound lifts are,…
How Anytime Fitness transformed my life
After being told he’d never walk again, joining the gym has helped transform Ainsley’s life as he grows in confidence, gets married abroad and starts his own property development business. Anytime Fitness gym member Ainsley Campbell’s incredible life transformation is the perfect example of not letting your situation limit what you can achieve. At just…
Should I use free weights?
You’re probably wondering whether or not you should use free weights in your workout routine. Well, the short answer is yes, but, let’s dive a little deeper into the reasons why free weights are such a beneficial addition to any fitness program. First off, free weights are incredibly versatile. They can be used to target…
Is it better to go to the gym in the morning or at night?
One of the most asked questions regarding exercise is whether it’s better to go to the gym in the morning or at night. It could be that you’re naturally an early riser and want to start the day as you mean to go on, you may want to visit the gym at a quieter…
How I beat gym anxiety
Gymtimidation can take many forms and one of the most common feelings is discomfort in the gym space which makes it hard to keep a regular training schedule. This is exactly how Hayley, now a loyal member of Anytime Fitness Beverley, felt before she tried Anytime Fitness. She had been a member of other gyms…
Correct mindset for working out
How do we find motivation, and keep it going? As humans we always strive for more, to have our dream body and be healthy. There are many ways to work out nowadays as well as maintain a healthy body weight but unfortunately, most of these programs do not address one of the most important factors…
Benefit of working out with others
Working out at the gym can be a great way to improve your physical health and reach your fitness goals. However, it can be easy to become bored and lose motivation when working out alone. That’s where the benefits of exercising in the gym with other people come into play. Whether you work out with…
How I stopped feeling judged in the gym
Having felt judged by others previously, Stuart Lord was feeling unfit, overweight, and struggling mentally. He didn’t want to socialise, feeling people would look at him and in his own words, ‘think he’s a mess’. Weighing 108kg at the time, Stuart would get out of breath after going up a flight of stairs and in…
Fitting in at the gym
The feeling of ‘not fitting’ is an awful, unsettling emotion in any environment. But when the fear of ‘not fitting in’ prohibits you from bettering yourself, this negative self-impression must be swiftly addressed. The reasons you may feel you stand out in the gym are as varied as the individuals themselves. From feeling like you…
Training plan: barbell workout
This single-equipment workout will help you build strength and muscle definition without having to move around the gym. You will need to adjust the weight for each exercise. Training plan Remember to warm up and cool down before and after each session. For each exercise, perform 5 sets of 5 reps, resting for 90…
How I found my place at the gym
Milly Pang is a dedicated member of Anytime Fitness Southport. However, like many of us, Milly has previously struggled to find the right balance in lifestyle and form a healthy relationship with exercise due to the difficulty of finding the right gym. This was not Milly’s experience when attending her previous gym. Lacking that supportive…
Circuit training plan: Women’s free weights
We’ve long since dispelled the myth that lifting weights makes you bulky, but what can you try if you’re just starting to incorporate strength training? Using weights is a great way for women to gain strength, reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes and enhance their mood and minimise stress. Strength training not only…
How I found the courage to join the gym
Gymtimidation can take many forms and one of the most common anxieties about joining a gym is feeling that they won’t fit in. This is exactly how Louise, now a member at Anytime Fitness Milton Keynes, felt before she took the plunge of joining one of our gyms. Having been a member of a previous…
Training plan: 8 week walk to run
This walk-to-run beginners training plan will gradually introduce you to running. The below workouts must be performed on three, non-consecutive days each week. On the days you are not running you can walk, strength train or do any other moderate or low-intensity activities. Ideally, you should also have two non-consecutive rest days per week. If…
What is Gymtimidation?
If you have ever felt anxiety or trepidation about going to the gym, you have experienced a type of ‘gymtimidation’. One may feel intimidated by a gym for many different and personal reasons. You may feel you don’t have enough knowledge of the equipment, perhaps it’s your first time and you’re unsure how you’ll fit…
How to manage work/life balance
When we think of work/life balance it’s usually life that gets the “hit”. Unfortunately, many professionals still struggle to get past their assumptions (and their deeply ingrained habits) around work hours, despite the overwhelming data that suggests that working long hours can be harmful to both employees and companies. In some other cases, people find…
Men’s Mental Health: Why is awareness & discussion important?
Men’s mental health has been rightfully highlighted across healthcare platforms and the media in the last few years. One such example is Movember, a month when issues faced by men in society are highlighted and opportunities for open discussions are created. Men’s mental health is a huge concern considering that in 2021, males accounted for…
What is functional training?
What is functional training? You’ve likely heard about it if you’ve flicked through any pre-made training programmes, talked to a trainer or explored your local AF gym. But what exactly is functional training? In short, it’s a workout designed to help you function on a day-to-day basis. Because the workouts are designed to strengthen you…
Is it worth buying vitamins?
Do you take any vitamins? Whether you require vitamin supplementation or not is largely dependent on your diet and lifestyle. The more dietary requirements you have, the more likely that supplementation will be required. Because the list of possible supplements and their reasoning can be quite extensive, Fresh Fitness Food has listed the most common…
Why you should be walking
Walking is a sometimes overlooked method of exercise, however, walking briskly is one of the easiest ways to get active and improve your health. Introducing walking into your routine or just remembering it’s an option when you’re looking for something to do is a fantastic way to work on your fitness, and have fun at…
Fight your sedentary lifestyle with exercise
We all know that sitting too long isn’t good for our health, but that doesn’t always mean it’s easy to avoid. Working hours, commuting, and the need to chill out after a long day all mean we do probably end up sitting longer than we should or even would like to. Aches and pains are…
How much protein do you need to build muscle?
Knowing how much protein to consume can be difficult. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is 0.8g per kg of body weight, but this is a guideline for the intake sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all healthy people, meaning it is a very general guideline. It has been suggested that this amount is…
Building healthy habits
Building a new habit takes 21 days. Have you heard that before? While that might not be a hard and fast rule, it’s a good guide when trying to pick up new habits or improve your wellbeing. Small, consistent changes over time can significantly improve your health. But you have to get these changes right.…
CBD for fitness and recovery
CBD for active individuals CBD is being used more and more by active individuals. From regular walkers to daily joggers and even professional athletes. In recent years it has had a huge surge in popularity among people from all walks of life. Especially from those looking to reap the health and wellness benefits such as…
The importance of protein as we get older
If you thought protein was just for bodybuilders then think again! The real benefits of a higher protein diet have nothing to do with sculpting the perfect physique, it’s the long-term health benefits that should be our focus. Think of a high protein diet and the mind tends to jump to muscle-bound, bicep-kissing men, flexing…
Collagen and white tissue
What is collagen? Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and, for many reasons, it’s essential for good health and wellbeing. As well as being the primary structural protein in our conjunctive tissues, it also plays key roles in joint mobility, bone stability, skin smoothness and even the health of hair and…
Partner workouts, Anytime, anywhere
Those who work out together, stay together. Fuel your competitive or collaborative spirit with one of our workout options below! Grab a friend, family member or partner and stay healthy together. We have several options to suit any location or time requirements so there are no excuses. You really can work out Anytime, anywhere. Remember…
Best vegan protein sources
Happy Veganuary! Are you taking part this year? Protein is often top of mind for those with a committed fitness routine. So if you’re trying to cut down on animal products you may wonder what you should be eating instead. The good news is that protein deficiency is very rare and eating a well planned…
Can fitness be a hobby?
Can fitness be a hobby, or do you have to commit to it like you would a job to see results? You often hear the phrase “fitness is a lifestyle” and while this is true, there are many things that make up a lifestyle and not all of them are good! Hobbies, friends, habits, goals,…
Men and family: how to get your work-life balance right
November is Men’s Mental Health Month. This awareness campaign is for everyone who identifies as a man, regardless of their current mental state. It might surprise you to know that around one in eight men in England has a common mental health problem such as depression or anxiety, although they are less likely to talk…
non-traditional dumbbell exercises for strong arms
Dumbbells are one of the most versatile, transportable and easily accessible items in any gym or home user’s collection of kit. Although they range in price and size, a dumbbell is optimally utilised when you vary how you use them. The traditional curling and pressing motions are good. However, they usually become boring and people…
Top tips for post-marathon recovery
Marathons are tough on the body, there’s no way around this fact. Your whole body from your muscles and tendons to less thought of hormones and almost every physiological system is pushed to the max during a marathon race. Muscle fatigue, cellular damage and weakened immunity are all common post-marathon consequences but you don’t have…
Reimagining work and office life
Has your return to the office been what you imagined? Now we’ve had plenty of time to settle back into the office routine, some of us may be reflecting on the changes and what we expected the transition to be like. The pandemic accelerated the existing trends of remote working. Unfortunately, not all employees can…
What is Sleep Hygiene?
‘Sleep hygiene’ is the term used to describe your sleeping habits, and the routine you do before going to bed. Generally, good sleep hygiene is associated with better sleep and a more relaxed nighttime experience. Getting the right number of hours or actually falling asleep in a reasonable amount of time can be a challenge…
Exercising Safely During Pregnancy
Exercising safely during pregnancy is likely to be a consideration or concern for many people when they learn they are expecting. Can you continue to exercise? What changes should you make? It’s important to look after yourself when you’re pregnant, and staying active can support you and your baby’s health. But it can be confusing…
recovering from overtraining
If you read out last blog post about some of the warning signs of overtraining, you’re probably wondering how you can help yourself heal from these effects. Recovering from overtraining doesn’t have to be complex and it’s useful to know how to do so, even if you haven’t experienced the effects of overtraining yet. Keep…
Signs of overtraining
What are some of the signs of overtraining and why might you want to look out for them? If you have been successfully exercising for a long time you likely have a good routine, get enough rest and fuel yourself appropriately in order to compensate for the output. But, if you want to increase the…
Hormonal cycles and training
What do you know about hormonal cycles and training? You might think about the time of day you train or figure out what days of the week work best for you by listening to your body, but may not have considered the effects of a monthly hormonal cycle as well. For people with a menstrual…
How To Avoid Snacking at Home
Are you struggling to avoid snacking at home? With more time spent between the same four walls and fewer distractions, this can be a major obstacle for a number of people. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, make healthier choices or just want to have a more structured diet, it can be tough to know…
What’s the best time to visit the gym?
What’s the best time to visit the gym? You might be right in there with an answer, “6am to get my day started,” “11pm when no one else is there,” in which case, great! You might not need to keep reading. But if you haven’t found your perfect hour or worry that mixing and matching…
Healthy Eating and Meal Prepping
Healthy eating doesn’t need to be complicated but cooking up a fresh batch of food every day can be really time-consuming. That’s why so many people like meal prepping in one way or another. After all, who doesn’t love leftovers? Whether you’re taking your food to work or just want to save precious time in…
Training during Ramadan
Ramadan is a month where Muslims worldwide seek to better themselves spiritually, emotionally and mentally. It is observed according to a lunar calendar and consequently, it does not occur at the same time each year adding a layer of complexity to those who wish to start or continue to better themselves physically during this holy…
Gyms reopening: Get ready to return
The time has come and the countdown to gyms reopening has begun! If like us, you have missed the atmosphere, routine and inspiration that a gym offers you do not have long to wait now. Although it’s exciting, we want to make sure you don’t rush into this and hurt yourself and have everything you need prepared…
How to exercise intuitively
We’ve all heard of intuitive eating, but what about exercising with the same mindset? Read on to find out more about intuitive exercising, how you can apply it and use it to maintain a balance between your goals and wellbeing. Exercising intuitively Training intuitively means that you exercise based on how you feel. It…
Exploring the benefits of CBD
CBD is becoming hugely popular, and a lot of people are trying it out for a multitude of reasons. They want to see what CBD can do for them. What does CBD feel like, what is the best way to use CBD oil, or what are CBD oil effects? These products can affect everyone differently…
End of Dry January: what now?
2021 hasn’t quite got off to the start many of us would have hoped for and after the year that was 2020, some of us are struggling to find ways to improve and maintain our general health and wellbeing. Enter Dry January, the 31 day challenge with long term benefits. Dry January Previous years’ participants have found that taking…
Home workout hacks
Do you need some home workout hacks and swaps? Many of us are trying to exercise from home, maybe getting into zoom or on demand classes for the first time and you might not be feeling like you have the right tools to do so. While it’s not quite the same as being at the…
Importance of hydration
You have probably already heard that the human body is about 60% water, but did you know the brain is a staggering 80% water? We’re made up of a lot of liquid, and the body loses 2-3 litres of this in an average day, which then has to be replaced for your body to function…
Finding balance over winter
Finding balance over Christmas can be a challenge. The Christmas period is fun but can be highly stressful. With last-minute shopping, increased traffic and rushing to finish work – the negatives vs multiple late nights with alcohol and the office becoming a mecca for chocolate and mince pies, there’s a lot to consider. Balance can…
Does vitamin D increase muscle strength?
First identified as a vitamin early in the 20th century and now consumed as an essential dietary supplement; the properties of vitamin D have multiple benefits for good health. So, can vitamin D increase muscle strength? Are you getting enough of this essential nutrient? Known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’, one of the main…
Hidden benefits of weight loss
Losing body fat via regular exercise and improved eating can deliver some obvious, visible changes quite quickly; looking slimmer, increase in muscle and a boost in confidence as you’re hitting your goals. However, weight loss benefits go much further than outward appearances. Here are some of the amazing hidden changes that happen inside your body as you lose weight, all…
Let’s talk about cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty substance that’s made in the liver. Although a little is essential for normal bodily function, too much increases your risk of heart attacks, strokes and vascular dementia. Some common causes of high cholesterol are: A diet high in saturated fat Being physically inactive Smoking The only way to know…
Blood pressure: Know your numbers
Know your numbers is Blood Pressure UK’s flagship campaign promoting blood pressure testing and awareness. This week encourages adults to know their blood pressure numbers and take the necessary action to reach and maintain healthy levels. High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks, strokes and other illnesses, which is why this campaign is so…
Mental health and exercise
India Flowers is the General Manager of Anytime Fitness Sutton-in-Ashfield. She’s always been active whether it be dancing at a young age, playing football in the park or just being on her bike. Today, she shares some of her thoughts and experiences on the impact exercise can have on your mental wellbeing. First, a…
How to mentally prepare for high level sport
Fondly known as Ricky, Carlos Brathwaite is an international cricketer and an entrepreneur with a sharp perspective, a remarkable skill-set, & most importantly, a special connection with the people. Carlos has been playing cricket for several international, franchise, and domestic teams and today he shares his thoughts on mental fitness and how this relates to…
Getting over the fear of working out in front of people again
Gyms are opening up again, which is great news for those who are feeling cooped up or don’t have lots of equipment at home. Many people enjoy going to the gym precisely because working out with other people gives them a boost of motivation, but that’s not the case for others. Psychologist Rachel Goldman emphasises…
Getting back into routine
Are you ready to get back into your gym routine? Had a break from home workouts? That’s totally normal and breaks should always be taken in any workout routine as they are vital to give your body time to recover, rejuvenate and for you to evaluate your goals and aspirations. However, a few of us…
Chocolate and Training
It’s World Chocolate Day on the 7th July so we’re taking a closer look at one of our favourite treats. How do chocolate and training impact each other? How can this sweet snack be included in your diet as part of a healthy and balanced lifestyle? The British Heart Foundation found that the average British…
Effective exercises for fat loss if you haven’t been active for a while
So maybe you’ve been less active than normal, maybe you’ve transitioned to a sedentary lifestyle or perhaps you’ve never really had an exercise routine before and you want to pick up some new habits. Fat loss should be just one goal you have as moving your body more frequently can have a large number of…
What is LISS?
What is LISS? Low Intensity Steady State (LISS) is an acronym for a method of training/exercise. As the name suggests, your objective would be to keep your heart rate at a comfortable/maintainable level and to work for a longer period of time. What are the benefits of LISS? Lower intensity exercise allows…
How to get fit with bodyweight training
Bodyweight training. What is it? Bodyweight training really is exactly what it says on the tin; using your body weight as resistance when training. A simple concept that, when performed well, can be highly effective, time-efficient, space-saving and cost-free. It’s perfect for all levels of fitness and especially useful if you are pressed for time.…
Top five benefits from walking
Top five benefits from walking Walking is a great way to exercise by yourself or with your family, so we’ve put together a few of the top benefits of walking for you here. Why not use these as conversation starters on your next adventure out? Walking is a great way of reducing your…
The health benefits of walking your dog
The UK is a nation of pet lovers, with data showing that 40% of the UK population own a pet! Dogs seem to be the preferred pet of choice for Brits, with 25% of pet owners owning at least one. That is unsurprising, as these pets offer loyal companionship like no other. If that isn’t…
Avoiding obsession with fitness trackers
Fitness trackers and wearable technology are at the forefront of global fitness. We have become obsessive with data, gamification and tracking our fitness. It has been revolutionary in the way people exercise and has been a game-changer for some, helping with motivation and goal-reaching. But like all good things, there is also a bad side!…
Getting enough movement during your working day
Sitting for long periods of time is a major contributing factor to muscular-skeletal injury (mainly back pain) and the slowing down of your metabolic rate. Often people who sit for long periods don’t realise until they have related symptoms or have already gained excessive weight. Short term signs could be tight muscles (poor flexibility and…
Breaking the habit of avoiding exercise
We’ve all had an upheaval of our usual routine, and maybe you want to get back into your healthy exercise habits or feel the desire to pick up some new ones. Procrastination or lack of a plan can make this challenging, but we’ve got some tips to help you stop avoiding exercise and build a…
Boosting your immune system
Keeping active for the sake of boosting our immune system and mood has never been more important. Many of us are spending much more time being sedentary which can have negative impacts on our health, but there are some things you can do to help your body and mind during this time. You can read…
Mental wellness and coronavirus
Over the past few months, the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has caused a huge amount of uncertainty and turbulence in many people’s lives. You might have the best handwashing techniques in the world, but the constant breaking news and social media notifications about the pandemic can feel overwhelming and start to take its toll on your…
Eating Disorders Awareness Week
Beat is a UK’s first charity dedicated to being a champion and guide for those affected by an eating disorder, and aim to end the pain and suffering they cause. Beat run Eating Disorders Awareness Week every year and have a wealth of resources available for individuals, workplaces, schools and charities. “Eating disorders can have…
Medicine ball couple’s workout for Valentine’s Day
With Valentine’s Day this week, couples across the world will be fine dining with their partners on the most romantic day of the year. However, if you prefer lunges to lunch or deadlifts to dinner then you’ll be looking for a different type of date. If you’re planning to spend your 14th February date night…
Decoded: Fitness for Cricket
Fondly known as Ricky, Carlos Brathwaite is an international cricketer and an entrepreneur with a sharp perspective, a remarkable skill-set, & most importantly, a special connection with the people. Playing cricket for several international, franchise, and domestic teams, Carlos made everyone ‘Remember the Name’ during the final match of 2016 ICC World Cup Twenty20, sealing…
Top 5 tips for getting started in the gym
Getting started Joining the gym can be a significant lifestyle change and often, not an easy one. Recent research* has found that one in four women feel intimidated by the gym and shy away from exercise due to the fear of being judged. With over 165 clubs in the UK, we’re keen to support…
Progress is a lifestyle, not just a workout
How active are you on a daily basis? It’s a common question and the government regularly like to question our habits and inactivity, but for the people that aren’t in the majority and go to the gym, how productive is your time at the gym? You might be surprised by the stats…
Benefits of corporate gym membership
Did you know that 4 in 10 adults are not getting the full benefits of a healthy lifestyle? Sedentary working lifestyles cause a range of both physical and mental ailments, yet workers spend on average a third of their day sitting at their desk.* While the figures above are a concern, there are…
Finding the balance & listening to your body
Finding the balance A common misconception in society is that being healthy is only attained by intense physical exercise & dieting, using strict disciplines & calculated methods for short term benefits. While these do play their part to a degree, there’s more to it than unsustainable meal plans, heart-pounding workouts & bland juice drinks. If…
Benefits of working out with a friend
It is National Best Friend’s Day! This is a day when we celebrate the special bond between you and your best friend – the person who listens to you without judging, supports you, who makes you laugh until your stomach hurts and with who you share everything. And on this day, we’re looking at why…
Getting back into your fitness routine after fasting
We know that people may fast for religious holidays or as part of a specific diet routine. We hope that everything went well for those who have recently completed Ramadan and understand that most people are keen to get back into their usual routine, both inside and out of the gym. Fasting should not stop you…
British Tomato Week
Fun Fact: Did you know that if all British tomatoes were lined up end to end, they would wrap around the equator 8 times! The Great British tomato is being celebrated across the UK as part of British Tomato Week, so we wanted to give you the lowdown on this popular fruit/vegetable (the debate continues…
April is National Stress Awareness Month
There are times when we feel under enormous pressure. Having deadlines, going through hard time at work, or when our friends or relative becomes ill. At times like this, we can start to feel overwhelmed or unable to cope. We feel stressed which can lead to mental health problems or make existing problems worse. National…
Mindful Mondays
There are many misconceptions about mindfulness. To some, it evokes a zen like image where they imagine a calm, collected person with a perfectly clear mind and to others it’s about being positive all the time. But these ideals are unrealistic and unattainable, but also potentially unhealthy in the long run – because life is…
5 Reasons You Should Try Yoga
Ever wondered what yoga is all about? Whether you’re a complete beginner or simply want to find out more, here are 5 reasons why you should try yoga:
Carrot smoothie recipe
For International Carrot day, Thursday 4th April, we are celebrating one of our great British vegetables which is so versatile – we’ve pulled together some interesting carrot facts and a healthy smoothie recipe. We love carrots because they can be enjoyed raw as a snack, in smoothies, stir fry, roasted, sauteed, steamed, in soups and…
Keeping a food diary
The thought of writing down what you eat might scare you! However, if you have no idea of what you’re eating, it’s hard for you or your personal trainer to plan how to improve and you won’t be aware of how good/bad it is. So it helps both parties and becomes a very useful exercise if taken correctly. Read on to find out how you can take control of your eating habits with a simple food diary…
The yoga directory – find the right style of yoga for you
Yoga is one of the fastest growing physical practices in the western world. As more and more research reveals its unparalleled benefits to our mental and physical health and well-being its well worth giving this ancient practice a try and experiencing the benefits for yourself. The tricky part then is choosing which style of yoga to try. With more gyms offering yoga classes and yoga studios popping up like Starbucks, it can be challenging to find the right class to suit your needs with so much choice. Here is our A-Z or yoga styles…
B is for Bipolar
This month we wanted to share a story from one of our inspirational Award winning members, Danielle from Anytime Fitness Ilkeston. Danielle’s Mum was diagnosed with Bipolar disorder but always refused to get any treatment. Sadly her mum committed suicide, which had a huge impact on Danielle. Losing a parent is hard at any time in life, but losing one to suicide is particularly difficult to come to terms with. Danielle did a lot of research into the condition to help her understand better what her mother had been going through. Read on to hear more about her story…
The History of the Treadmill
Today, the treadmill is the most popular piece of fitness equipment, found in homes and health clubs around the world. But where did this great cardiovascular machine come from? Read on to find out more…
Core Strength Workout
Everyone knows the benefits of having strong core muscles but what exercises are best for building and maintaining your core strength? We took a tour of the Workouts app* and gave their six week core strength training plan a go.
Is the Keto diet for you?
Richard Williams, owner of our Anytime Fitness Woking club has been following a Ketogenic diet this year and we asked him to share how he’s getting on and why the Keto diet could help many people improve their gut health.
Claire Murray at Anytime Fitness Clarkston shares her weight loss story
We asked our Club Manager Claire Murray how she lost weight, toned up and changed her life through exercise and lifestyle changes. Claire lost an incredible 14 stone. Here’s her story..
5 reasons to try Veganuary
Veganism is one of the key trends in the nutrition industry for 2019, but why is it getting so much popularity? There are many reasons to try going vegan for a month, or maybe even longer. And if you can’t see cutting out all animal products as feasible for you, why not start by just cutting down to start with. The benefits are not just for your own health but the future of the planet too!
Here are just five reasons we think you should try going vegan
Are you making the most out of your Dumbbell training?
Dumbbells are one of the most versatile, transportable and easily accessible items in any gym or home-users collection of kit. Although they range in price and size, a dumbbell is optimally utilised when you vary how you use them. The traditional curling and pressing motions are good. However, they usually become boring and people run out of ideas/ways to use them which makes them feel that they need to purchase larger weights or different equipment. This is quite often not the case. Just a little inspiration can open you exercise scope up to hundreds of alternatives that create a greater challenge. Leading to sculpting results and a well-defined body.
Rohan Kallicharan lost seven stone and turned his life around
Rohan Kallicharan has lived with mental health for many years. He has struggled with manic depressive episodes and tried to take his life on a number of occasions. Thankfully one day he decided to make positive changes, in desperation to change the spiralling decline in his personal life and to help him become healthier. He lost over seven stone after he joined Anytime Fitness Edgbaston and discovered a passion for running; he ran his first marathon and never looked back; his new found love of fitness has also helped him live with mental health issues drug free.
The importance of support and buddy network to your workouts
Do you have someone that you regularly work out with or meet for a run? Are you accountable to anyone other than yourself? It’s proven to be much easier to stick to your goals and targets if you share them, have a training buddy and make yourself responsible to someone else. If you can find a friend who has similar goals, someone who can encourage you or just join you for the journey, you should see improvements in your achievements.
Goal setting and habit making
It’s that time of year when we think about fresh starts and making lists of the goals and resolutions we want to achieve by the end of 2019. Do you find you struggle meet your goals? Or do you set goals that are just that bit too hard to achieve? Succeeding at smashing those New Year’s Resolutions is only possible if you set realistic targets, work at changing small habits that will be easy to follow and make those goals accountable.
Are you getting a good night’s sleep?
Getting enough sleep can be just as important as scheduling in your weekly workouts. We don’t think about making time for sleep or booking it in our diaries, sometimes taking it for granted. But insufficient or poor sleep can have a very detrimental effect on your health. There is a direct link between sleep and mental health so it’s important to understand how your sleep patterns are affecting your day-to-day life. Read on to find out more…
Which Fitness Tracker is right for you?
Fitness trackers can be a great idea. My favourite saying is “if you don’t measure, you can’t improve”. Monitoring your progress gives you a starting point so you can easily see how far you’ve come. But there are so many options out there now it’s easy to feel bewildered. Have you avoided data in the past because you’re unsure of the outcome or perhaps overwhelmed by the technology? We’re here to help give you confidence in what’s available and to show you the fantastic benefits of using trackers.
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