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Posted by: ML Hammer95 12th January 2015, 12:35 PM

As it's the start of a New Year, I thought I'd create a thread where all you gym and fitness freaks can discuss how you keep in shape and give each other diet and workout advice!

As an avid gym-goer myself (4-5 times a week plus an active job) I'm intrigued to see how many other users care about their bodies

Has anybody joined the gym at the start of 2015 or do you prefer sports or running to keep yourselves in shape!?

Posted by: Rooney 12th January 2015, 07:45 PM

I tend to go every, other day. But I admit it's a struggle to even do that. I'm trying to bulk up/beef out, but it's such a long process and the gains are constant small gains because of my size. Wouldn't mind plunging for a Personal Trainer when I have more time and a better routine tbh. Even if it's only for a short amount of time.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 12th January 2015, 08:20 PM

Half the battle sometimes is finding the motivation to actually go to the gym I agree

What sort of excerises are you mainly doing to beef up? I've always found it better to have a gym partner when lifting heavy weights - for support and to "spot" you as well!

Diet is vital for bulking too!

Posted by: Rooney 12th January 2015, 08:22 PM

I don't normally do lots of lifting, mainly cos I'm not naturally strong! Mainly squats, press ups, tris, crunches. Then I use weights for shoulders, biceps, calfs.

Posted by: Silas 12th January 2015, 08:34 PM

I'm looking forward to getting back into the Gym in the near future. Going to be a long road back to where I was before the most recent injury never mind back to the level of fitness I was at when I slaughtered my back in the pool.

Posted by: Oricon 12th January 2015, 10:56 PM

So happy there's a topic on this as I go to the gym 4-6 times a week (in a bulking phase for 2 years). I've seen my strength increasing every month (woops) but when I had a personal trainer, he told me I was an extremely hard gainer. I've seen gains thankfully but not as fast as I hoped for.

Sometimes it's a pain to go especially working full time in an active job but I simply adore the place too much to skip a day (sometimes I do but that's more down to the fact I cannot get up from my bed oops).

Posted by: ML Hammer95 13th January 2015, 01:57 PM

I'm quite lucky that I have a very lean build, as it shows any gains quickly! Since I started going to the gym regularly (last May) I've stayed roughly the same weight, but gained strength and muscle and burned fat

I find it very hard to put on weight though as I have a ridicously high metabolism! I could really do with putting on at least half a stone tbh.

Started really pushing the free weights for chest, shoulders and arms and stepping up the weight on squats, lunges etc. I do love core and running too and always spend one session a week on those.

Posted by: richie 13th January 2015, 04:15 PM

Fat git here! Trying to run 5k on my treadmill every day this year or die trying.

Posted by: *Tim 13th January 2015, 06:04 PM

I actually took a gym membership a week or so ago.
Went 1 time as I overestimated myself (I didn't exercise for 4 months) and overtrained myself

Posted by: Oricon 13th January 2015, 07:20 PM

The problem is that I initially went to the gym to lose weight as my waist was 34. That went down to 28 in the summer (eeek) so I'm hoping to get it back to 30 but I've a small frame. Any change isn't as noticeable to me in the beginning phase as I had to lose weight first and the fat was covering all the gains I was getting (or so I think).

I've cut down on cardio due to being on a bulking phase. Don't want to risk losing any gains I gather

Posted by: johnniewalk 14th January 2015, 06:10 AM

Hi, From Past Week i am going for gym because i was very thin for that purpose i joined, You know doing workouts in gym provide a strength and some feel that your body something gain...

Posted by: ML Hammer95 14th January 2015, 10:58 PM

Good to see so many New Years Resolutions being kept to

Are any of you changing your diet to help your fitness goals?? I think probably 75% of your success is down to what you eat.

The amount of people who think they can eat "whatever they want" because they've been to the gym is ridiculous!!

Posted by: *Tim 15th January 2015, 11:24 AM

I'm one of those

Although I've tried to step my game up and ditch the sweets/crisps and eat healthier but it is hard

Posted by: Mack 15th January 2015, 07:30 PM

Myself I prefer dog walking and walking.

Or sometimes I use my girlfriend's gym and do a full workout.

Posted by: Totto 15th January 2015, 08:44 PM

I ditch crips for now, it really helped.

Posted by: *Tim 15th January 2015, 09:50 PM

My main problem is that I eat because I am bored as hell and I can afford it because I can;t seem to gain weight (I mean I lost 2 kilograms during my first few months being a student)

I'm just going to have to binch eat healthy stuff instead of fat food and hit the gym at least thrice a week. That's my goal!

Posted by: Silas 15th January 2015, 10:02 PM

People who think they can lose weight by just going to the gym or just srsly restricting the diet make me laugh. Everyone with an ounce of common sense knows that the only way to loose weight and keep it off is to do regular exercise and cast a more careful eye over your diet. Crash diets aren't sustainable over long periods, so the weight returns, and there's shit all point in doing 10hrs a week of cardio if you're eating 2kgs of chocolate every night.

Posted by: ░░░░ 16th January 2015, 06:12 PM

i have today invested in some dumbbells. i am quite fortunate that i am naturally quite broad and doing bar work has kept me relatively muscular. those that know, should dumbbells be enough for toning? i see there are all sorts of exercises that you can use them for all over the body.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 16th January 2015, 10:16 PM

You can bulk with dumbbells as well if used correctly. Its all about using a higher weight for lower repetitions I think.

http://www.menshealth.co.uk/_mobile/building-muscle/fast/The-dumb-bell-bedroom-bulk-up

This is quite a decent work out for building mass. Hope it helps

Posted by: Oricon 17th January 2015, 12:28 AM

Jake if you wish to bulk then go and use a method known as low reps, and high set of weights. Having a range of 4-6 reps before rest with around 3-4 sets is ideal to bulk up. However if you wish to tone up and get a more defined body then opt for lower weights but do more reps, having a range of 15-20 and stick to 3-4 sets.

Dumbbell is magnificent in terms of bulking as it's free weights, which for me is much better than using a machine or any sort of thing which supports you. Due to the dumbbell being free weights and focusing on one side of the body (that's assuming you're lifting with a set of them and not using one with both arms), you can ensure you're balancing the training on the left as well as on the right to prevent muscular imbalance (which is frequent for those regular gym goers who rely too much on the machines). On top of this, you engage your core whilst doing stuff such as shoulder presses making it good for not only the target muscle group you're training on, but also the abs get some benefit too!

If you wish to know further, let me know and I can recommend some really good workouts using a dumbbell!

Posted by: ░░░░ 17th January 2015, 06:02 AM

oh lord have mercy, you are speaking to me in a language i can't comprehend there yu ;( what i think i need is something like a mix of 2/3 toning and 1/3 bulking if it is possible to do such a regime?

Posted by: ML Hammer95 17th January 2015, 10:54 PM

Could do two sets on a medium weight, and then one set on a heavy weight

Posted by: Oricon 20th January 2015, 06:34 PM

Apologies for the late reply, been really busy lately with work!

Yes it is indeed! What you do is say, work out how much free time you have thus calculating how many days per week you can work out. You would then spend the one day bulking (use heavy weights and less reps) and the other days on high reps but low weights. Although if I were you and can bulk easily, I would first do the bulking phase for a couple of months (or how big you want to get), before then switching to toning thus defining your muscles by doing cardio as well!

Posted by: ML Hammer95 22nd January 2015, 09:04 PM

My gym has got a lot quieter this week... have people given up on their New Year's Resolutions!?

Posted by: Oricon 23rd January 2015, 01:33 AM

I most definitely haven't! It's still on with me (although cheated a bit by eating excessive chocolate for one day only )

Posted by: Mack 26th January 2015, 04:36 PM

I've slowly gone back to the chocolate.

Although still doing the walking each day.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 30th January 2015, 05:45 PM

Everyone has their vice The common consensus is to have a cheat day once a week to get any temptation our of your system!

Anybody doing a "dry January"?? Since its over on Sunday, be interesting to see if anybody's kept to it!

Posted by: ML Hammer95 17th February 2015, 10:23 PM

Anybody still going to the gym or doing their best to keep fit then??

Posted by: Rooney 17th February 2015, 10:35 PM

I'm still gymming.. but I think my fitness/health is not where it needs to be. Only problem is that I'm trying to put weight on (and it's working) so doing extra cardio to get fit burns all the extra.. so catch-22 situation really for the time being.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 21st February 2015, 05:23 PM

Have you tried interval training? In theory a minutes sprint at high intensity and a minutes jog. Has the same lasting effect on your body as lifting heavy weights, plus you don't burn tons of calories.

Posted by: Suedehead2 21st February 2015, 06:34 PM

There's a very simple way of pitting on weight - get older. It worked for me

Posted by: The Polaris 23rd February 2015, 04:43 PM

lol

Good to see some people trying to be fit

Myself, I compete in Athletics as a sprinter and also coach a group too as UK athletics Sprint Coach

I do about 12 sessions a week work full time and also in a band lol i spend my life drinking coffee :-P

I dont think i could survive without the stress relief of training hard tbh

Posted by: ML Hammer95 23rd February 2015, 04:52 PM

Sounds amazing mate, what's your best time!?

I agree that training does release positive endorphins which relieve stress. Genuinely feel better about yourself after a good workout.

Posted by: The Polaris 24th February 2015, 12:38 PM

10.8 for the 100 and 48.3 for th 400 (i still do 400) Not raced indoor though this year as being doing way too much band stuff so neglected the speed/sharpening work a little lately

I do get a kick from being in pain after a session though lol

Posted by: Gage 24th February 2015, 12:53 PM

Gonna start doing a bit more exercise and eating a bit better from March, found out I'm going on holiday in September and want to trim down a bit (as I definitely won't be getting any action looking like I am at the moment! )

Posted by: The Polaris 24th February 2015, 01:43 PM

haha lads holiday then?

Start a 6month training log

Posted by: ML Hammer95 24th February 2015, 02:11 PM

Diets like 70% of it, cut your fat and carb intake and you'll be good!

Posted by: Beaverhousen 24th February 2015, 06:22 PM

Remember, no such thing as 'toning' - you can bulk and gain muscle or cut and lose fat and show muscle already gained.

Furthermore, one CANNOT lose weight/ fat AND bulk at the same time. Whoever says that is LYING unless they are a. on steroids or b. a complete beginner.

Posted by: *Tim 24th February 2015, 07:27 PM

I'm planning on starting again next week, cause y'know, alcohol and student activities got in the way

Posted by: Mack 8th March 2015, 07:11 PM

Slowly going back to my vices of chocolate and biscuits.

Posted by: The Polaris 9th March 2015, 12:13 PM

Mack Vices are absolutley fine as long as you train hard enough! lol

I train (athletics) 6 days a week and frankly I eat awful lol but my body is on point! :-) lol

You just gotta work harder to have the food you enjoy too

Posted by: Silas 9th March 2015, 12:46 PM

I've started, very slowly, to get back into working out. Thinking seriously about picking my pool membership back up again and working out a regular timetable that I will stick to religiously. I am built to be a swimmer rather than a runner, in spite of the rest of my family being runners, and it's the only form of exercise I truly enjoy.

Posted by: Mack 9th March 2015, 07:01 PM

However I still do the walking each day though.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 10th March 2015, 10:28 PM

Think the recent upturn in the weather where I live has motivated people to get back in shape for the Summer! Gym was packed today, with the sunny weather a contributing factor.

Thousands of years ago, people in the Northern hempishere used to deliberately "fatten" over winter to cope with the cold and shed the weight over spring/summer. Obviously, there's not that need today but I think it still happens unconsciously

Posted by: Mack 15th March 2015, 04:33 PM

How has it been for you all this week?

Posted by: ML Hammer95 27th March 2015, 06:02 PM

Started a new programme of deadlifts today... back is absolutely knackered! Best all-over work out though.

Anyone else trying something different or new?

Posted by: Nick F1 27th March 2015, 08:17 PM

I have started to build muscles now ( about month ago to be precious ) , only doing for now bench, dips, squats and deadlifts..
Don't know how is smart mixing that with my CrossFit training but I love to be active every day..

Was doing yesterday for back and legs Squats (weight 50kg), Deadlifts (52kg) and Bulgarian squat (20kg) and my gluteus and quadriceps are in slight pain.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 29th March 2015, 10:12 AM

You would be building some serious muscle doing those first four excerises you mentioned! How many days a week do you do them?

Also, what's a Bulgarian squat!?

Posted by: ML Hammer95 29th March 2015, 10:16 AM

Considering this is a music forum, does anybody have any songs that help motivate them at the gym?

Three songs I love to play at the gym, especially for weights, are;

Chase & Status ft. Tinie Tempah - Hitz
Plan B - iLL Manors
Star.One ft. Doctor - Never Give Up

Posted by: Mack 29th March 2015, 01:46 PM

For me to motivate me in the gym would be:

Kasabian- Club Foot
Chipmunk ft Chris Brown- Champion
Survivor- Eye of The Tiger

Posted by: Oricon 1st April 2015, 09:35 PM

My motivation in terms of music wise, is generally anything upbeat with a kick in it. That varies for me from the likes of K-Pop all the way to the likes of dance music (e.g. Martin Garrix style). As common sense, ballads as much as I enjoy them, is something I avoid when working out as it just puts me off my routine!

Also @ML Hammer, the Bulgarian squat is essentially a one legged squat where you perform it against a bench. You place one leg ontop of the bench behind you and use that other leg as a balance and then squat the usual.

My current weight for 1RM using 90-95% of max strength for the following compound exercises is 80kg for squat, deadlift 105kg and bench press 55kg. The goal for me before the end of summer is roughly get squat 1 rep max weight of 100kg, deadlifts to around 130kg and bench press probably up until 65kg. I really am underperforming on bench presses and I do not know why ugh.

Posted by: Nick F1 2nd April 2015, 06:37 AM

3 days in a week

Monday Crossfit training
Tuesday Chest / Triceps
Wednesday Crossfit training
Thursday Back / Legs / Biceps
Friday Crossfit training
Saturday Chest / Triceps
Sunday Running or biking

Today i'll do over 100km of biking so I won't do any kind of building but i'll do it on Sunday or Satuday...



it's a serious killer for legs + glutenos!

I am definitely seeing improvements in only month and half of building.

@ Yu wow over 100kg for deadlift, that's insane. I believe that my limit is around 70kg lol. Same fr Squats, not sure where is my limit but doing 50kg is hard too.

I must say that my bench has improved the most, was doing on Crossfit 27kg as most, but now I do 41kg growing

oh and yeah Martin Garixx Animals and DVBBS Tsunami are my faves for my home gym playlist!

Posted by: Oricon 2nd April 2015, 10:30 PM

I love deadlifts now despite hating them initially, don't know why! The same applies with squats as well!

Being Asian means gains are harder to spot, so annoying

Posted by: Nick F1 3rd April 2015, 07:58 AM

I love both deadlifts and squats, always hated doing bench before (mainly coz there is always the most people for that exercise), but now since I made my home gym, I love it

Oh yeah Asians are mostly skinny so gaining is harder. There's nothing than just push

Posted by: Joe. 3rd April 2015, 09:21 AM

Started benching 92 kg again today. Yaaaas

Posted by: ML Hammer95 3rd April 2015, 08:44 PM

I've started the Men's Health Beach Body workout - done week 1 and 2 and its a lot of heavy lifting! Low reps and heavy weights.

Finding wide-hold pull ups the hardest right now.

Posted by: Mack 23rd April 2015, 06:12 PM

How has been it for you all this week?

Still doing the walking every day I am.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 23rd April 2015, 07:04 PM

Seeing any results yet!?

Halfway through my summer workout plan and can feel myself getting stronger. People have started to comment about my shape now, which is always welcome Ironically, I think my stomach is the most improved area recently, thanks to 100 squats on a gym ball each session

Really need to eat more still though. I've consciously tried to eat more, but it feels very pedantic counting calories. My job doesn't help either, as I often go 6 hours without any food, staying on my feet most of that time. Tend to lose a pound or two after a shift which is annoying.

Posted by: Mack 25th April 2015, 05:49 PM

Yes, definitely have seen results. People commentating about my shape now.

Posted by: *Tim 23rd May 2015, 03:55 PM

Okay I've picked up my gym habits again
This week was just a startup for me tho, gotta take it easy, it's been too damn long

Posted by: Riser 23rd May 2015, 11:39 PM

Went on my first bike ride of the year today. I'm going to try to commit to this once every weekend through the summer and maybe into fall. The weather was perfect so it felt pretty amazing

Posted by: Cody Slayberry 24th May 2015, 06:18 AM

P90X is going to kill me one of these days my arms hurt right now

Also, who can go wrong with the epitome of workout songs: "Work Bitch". By the legendary miss Britney Spears.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 27th May 2015, 07:48 PM

Has anybody here done circuit training before? I was convinced into it by a few girls at work and found it mental! Hard work but the benefits will be great I imagine.

Posted by: Rooney 27th May 2015, 08:17 PM

It's weird, cos people tell me you can't get 'bigger' doing circuits, yet others say it's possible.

It's just like cardio before a weights session - people tell me to do it before a weights session, but other people say no you should do it after. Honestly there is so much rubbish spouted I stopped going to the gym, and now only use home weights, but I've decided I want to become more lean so gonna start back up in the gym properly after my summer hols in June.

Posted by: *Ben* 6th June 2015, 12:46 PM

So true what you say. I think all could work it's just the matter what type of body you have.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 8th June 2015, 12:21 PM

From my experience, as long as you keep your cardio separate from your weights section it'll be beneficial.

Circuits are good for everything I think, my session involves shuttle runs, a load of core work and light weights. In theory, a good fat burner and will get you leaner no problem!




I agree, there is so much conflicting advice on fitness and the gym in particular!

On another note, does anybody here use Protein Shakes? I've been having them about five times a week since my birthday last month and was wondering what people have found the effects to be?

Posted by: *Ben* 8th June 2015, 04:17 PM

I take always protein shakes. I think they are good, I take every morning the whole week nad also when I train, after training.
I also take carbohydrate (together with protein) and creatine since the start of the year and I think they help me to get little bigger. I always had problems gaining weight so either I need to eat a LOT or take these supplements.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 11th June 2015, 07:07 PM

I find it hard to put on weight too, my metabolism is ridiculous! You're right in saying its much easier than eating loads and loads of food which is hard to do consciously.

What sort of training are you doing now then, weights or more cardio?

Posted by: *Ben* 13th June 2015, 05:47 PM

Only weights. I don't need and want to do cardio. I play tennis, and that's enough cardio

Posted by: ML Hammer95 18th June 2015, 07:14 PM

Doing circuit training twice a week along with weight sessions at the gum really working at the moment. I've never been found the 'hench' look appealing and the lean, toned, strong look is much more attainable for me. Increase in protein shakes really having an effect now too

What look is everybody going for with their fitness?

Posted by: P@ul 11th July 2015, 09:18 AM

Anybody ever get gym anxiety? My gym closest to me has 100s of people I know from school and stuff and I hate going on my own cuz I ALWAYS see people I know. Also because I haven't been a member for like a year and only been going now and again as a guest, I don't really have a programme and am probably really weak again so will be self conscious struggling to bench 40kg

Posted by: ML Hammer95 11th July 2015, 09:06 PM

Yeah I understand that and used to be like that myself. Especially with how skinny I am, I'd always feel intimidated going into he weights section and felt I needed to go with a friend.

Honestly, everybody is just focused on their own programmes to be paying attention to what you're doing. Most people have headphones in and most of the conversation at my gym concerns equipment (e.g. "Are you finished with that.."). I tend to use the supported bar for bench press and squats simply because I work out alone, so maybe you could just do that.

The more you go and see results, the more confidence you will have in yourself and your body

Posted by: ML Hammer95 3rd August 2015, 05:08 PM

Hope everyone is making progress with their fitness!

Feel free to update and give advice to others here.

Posted by: Rooney 3rd August 2015, 05:12 PM

I stopped going and working out at home instead.

BUT I really want to expand my social circle so I'm going to start going to the gym properly again. Bought myself some new shorts & running/gym shoes, and I want to do Tough Mudder next year so going to try my best to get through that!

Posted by: LeeWallace 3rd August 2015, 05:18 PM

I've being doing a lot of chest recently after getting over the pain.

I'm still focused a lot on cardio until I get down to my ideal weight size which i'm almost there and should be there within the next week two weeks.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 3rd August 2015, 08:19 PM

Woman at work does Tough Mudder all the time, sounds very intense. Good luck to you for that! I never thought of the gym as a social hub, I just work out on my own most of the time




Lifting heavy weights like chest and deadlift can help you lose weight too, by making the metabolism faster.

Fair play on getting down to your ideal weight though! Gonna be hitting the weights after that?

Posted by: Rooney 3rd August 2015, 08:42 PM

Going to start doing classes, included in my membership fee which thankfully they are as the price is ridiculous!

Posted by: ML Hammer95 3rd August 2015, 09:02 PM

I'm the same - I do one or two circuit training classes a week to supplement my gym programme, which I'm really glad I did! Always good to get value for money, and classes can be more social than just sticking your headphones in at the gym.

Posted by: Riser 4th August 2015, 05:14 AM

Tough Mudder looks amazing! I'm probably more inclined to do another mud run that's less intense (such as Spartan Race or Warrior Dash) but it's such a great concept and I'm really impressed at how quickly it's risen in popularity.

Posted by: Mack 4th August 2015, 08:39 AM

Has anyone ever done the Tough Mudder?

Posted by: Mack 2nd November 2015, 11:59 PM

Lost 6lb in a couple of weeks with all the walking that I've done. How's everyone's fitness plans going?

Posted by: ML Hammer95 13th November 2015, 07:48 PM

Impressive mate, well done! Lost anymore recently?

Taking protein shakes has really helped my muscles grow bigger, but I'm still not putting any weight on! Conscious of getting fat too.

How's everybody else doing? Preparing to get fat at Christmas?

Posted by: Rooney 14th November 2015, 03:47 PM

I'm doing ok. On about 2x protein shakes a day at the moment, I can't feel myself getting much bigger but people have commented that I am looking bigger, so it must be working.

Going to be join a new gym at the end of the month, getting my friend to train me (who used to be a semi-pro weightlifter!). I'm not sure I train properly for how I want to be. Going to also be signing up for Tough Mudder on payday as well. !!

Posted by: Viper* 14th November 2015, 04:12 PM

Good luck with Tough Mudder! I did it in 2013. It's brilliant, but it's just as much mental as it is physical!

Posted by: Mack 16th November 2015, 12:12 PM

How long did it take you to do the Tough Mudder, Viper?

Posted by: sophiemia 8th December 2015, 10:29 AM

Hi,
I just joined the gym last week.. I am very exited for a good looking body.

Posted by: Viper* 9th December 2015, 12:16 PM

Oh good lord. About 4 hours

We were mostly walking/jogging tbh. And then about 2/3 miles towards the end, my glasses broke. And with me being pretty blind without them, that slowed things down a lot!

Something I found amusing... You've just completed like 12/13 miles, steep hills, physically challenging obstacles, you're hungry and cranky and dehydrated... all you want is a drink to rehydrate. And they stand there, on the finish line waiting to give you... alcohol (cider).

Posted by: MincePie 9th December 2015, 07:37 PM

Well done on you for completing it. Would you do it again?

Posted by: Viper* 10th December 2015, 11:54 AM

Thanks.

Yes and no.
Yes because it feel great completing it, the free t shirt is nice and it's a fun thing to tell people I have done. Also, I think that night I had the best nights sleep I've ever had

No because jumping in a skip of ice is literally the worst feeling ever.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 11th January 2016, 08:52 PM

Anybody got a New Years Resolution to improve their fitness? Please post your progress in here!

Because of my injuries and illness over Christmas, my gym programme has stalled somewhat. Had circuit training last week and was almost sick!

Posted by: Rooney 24th January 2016, 07:55 PM

I've started proper weight training. Was deadlifting on Thursday.. it's taken until for Sunday for my glute to feel in agony.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 24th January 2016, 08:12 PM

Yeah deadlifting will do that to your glutes... I've always been told that all-body excerises are best for weight training - stuff like deadlift, squats, pull-ups alongise the more traditional bench press and bicep curls!

I still find it almost impossible to put on any weight. All my training means I'm definitely stronger and have a lean, toned body with muscle but I still weigh the same as I did at 16!

Posted by: Dobbo 24th January 2016, 08:19 PM

I'm the opposite putting on weight is easy for me (annoyingly) - one week out of the gym takes about a months worth of sessions to counteract!

Posted by: ML Hammer95 24th January 2016, 08:25 PM

What training do you have to do then mate!?

Posted by: Dobbo 24th January 2016, 08:35 PM

Well I'm not mega strict on it like a few people I know, I try to go about 2-3 times a week doing a mix of cardio/weights in different sessions.

No real routines as such and I'm pretty passive about it in general!

Posted by: Rooney 24th January 2016, 08:49 PM

Yeah compound lifts are the best. The machines are for body builders.

Posted by: Suedehead2 24th January 2016, 09:36 PM

Believe me, putting on weight gets a lot easier when you reach around 40

Posted by: popchartfreak 24th January 2016, 10:13 PM

I held off till 50. Now I'm a whopping 10 and a half stone and can't stop eating chocolate - it might not sound much but I am small-framed and was 9 and a half for 2 decades

Posted by: ML Hammer95 21st February 2016, 02:41 PM

Having to manage my groin right now... circuit training putting strain on it I don't get lifting weights or running. Still able to do excerises, but need an ice-pack on it afterwards!

How's everybody else doing?

Posted by: Rooney 29th June 2016, 10:43 PM

Does anyone take protein supplements?

Posted by: Mack 24th September 2016, 08:09 PM

How are people's gym plans going?

Posted by: Silas 24th September 2016, 08:16 PM

I joined a local swimming club which I have missed so much. Just need to get the diet in gear next

Posted by: Ðøßßø 24th September 2016, 08:25 PM

I'm playing more racquet sports right now, usually badminton/squash at least 2 or 3 times a week. It's the funnest way to keep active as I find the treadmill dull & bordering on soul-destroying.

Posted by: Harve 24th September 2016, 09:41 PM

I did a Parkrun (5k) this morning in 23:40 which will DO but I wanna take a couple of minutes off that by the end of the year. Maybe.

Posted by: Mack 24th September 2016, 09:46 PM

I'm doing a 15km each day as I can on the exercise bike aiming to get to 20km each day soon.

Posted by: Mack 5th October 2016, 07:01 PM

How long can people hold the plank for?

Posted by: Cremey 5th October 2016, 09:52 PM

I'm doing my first marathon in a couple of weeks and I've done nowhere NEAR enough training...determined to not pull out though so I'm gonna have to do a big run in the next few days to see if I'll be up to it. So annoyed at myself for leaving it so last-minute!

Posted by: Mack 6th October 2016, 08:15 PM

Good luck with your first marathon, Cremey. Hope it goes well for you. How many far you gone in runs? (distance wise)

Posted by: Mack 12th January 2017, 01:21 PM

BUMP

Has anyone got any new year's resolutions to keep fit, go to the gym or take part in a sport?

I'm keeping fit by walking more, going on the exercise bike and taking up table tennis.

Posted by: Mattias 12th January 2017, 01:35 PM

I am planning to join the gym this year because I used to exercise using my home equipment, but I lost interest after a few years. So this will be a new way to get back into the routine and maybe even make some new friends!

Posted by: Dobbo 14th January 2017, 10:54 AM

Playing badminton twice a week & squash once a week atm, #prayformyknees

Also try to go the gym at some point at the weekend for a more all round workout.

Posted by: Oliver 14th January 2017, 11:41 AM

My starting weight on Tuesday 3rd January was 18st 2lb. I'll keep track in here once every two weeks of my weight, so Tuesday coming I'll give an update!

Trying to get to 15st by July 1st.

Posted by: Flatcap 14th January 2017, 09:50 PM

I have bought a pedometer and I intend to monitor my steps to see how far I walk. I aim to get as high as possible on my days off. So far my highest is 8460 steps which is over 3 miles according to the pedometer.

Posted by: Oricon 15th January 2017, 12:55 AM

So New Year comes a resolution, and my goal is just bulk bulk and bulk. My body really is the worst when packing on muscle mass, but when it comes to eating food it piles on so much fat so easily!

Posted by: Mack 15th January 2017, 08:45 PM

All the best with that, Oliver.

Good luck mate.

Posted by: Silas 16th January 2017, 05:13 PM

I have stupidly agreed to do a 10k at the end of May so imma be getting fit for that.

Posted by: Mack 2nd February 2017, 10:55 PM

Lost 6lb this week!

Posted by: Oliver 2nd February 2017, 10:58 PM

Had to change my starting weight as the scales I used at work (pallet scales) were quite faulty.

Starting Weight - Tuesday 3rd January 2017

17st 13lbs

Current weight - Tuesday 31st January 2017 (4-Week Update)

17st 1.5lbs

Posted by: David 19th February 2017, 10:01 PM

Gym five times a week (sometimes four but aim for five, and always in the morning) and generally home workouts in the evenings. Only do weight training as I'm around 65kg and don't put on body fat at all so I have a lean physique. Very satisfied with how it's going this year and my diet is in good form as well. Keeping up constant hard work also means the odd cheat day isn't going to kill you.

Posted by: PeteFromLeeds 11th March 2017, 04:55 PM

Went to the gym for the first time today. It was alright

Posted by: ML Hammer95 11th March 2017, 04:59 PM

Manchester 10K?! I'm doing that too.

Posted by: Silas 11th March 2017, 05:24 PM

Ya huh. Dumbass here signed up to do it with work. Tho I've been out of the office for like three weeks now so I've nae idea if work has signed me up or if I've got out of it by being out the country.

Posted by: Emperor Silas 27th March 2017, 05:08 PM

So I've no got out of it. starting my training tonight thanks to the Nike+ Running Club app. Trying to motivate myself to go do it currently. Session 1 is only 10mins but I just can't be arsed. I hate running so much

Posted by: Riser 28th March 2017, 03:19 AM

I just started running again last week and already sprained my foot. Can barely walk atm so running's way out of the question for now.

Posted by: Cody S. Berry 19th May 2017, 05:41 PM

Intense arm workouts are just UGH I woke up and my arms are the most sore they've been in three years

Posted by: ML Hammer95 29th June 2017, 11:26 AM

Stupidly just ran 3 miles in 17 minutes and it made me feel sick... I normally aim for just under or spot on 7 minute miles but got carried away at the start. Never going that fast again.

Posted by: ⓐⓦⓐⓡ^ 4th October 2017, 11:34 PM

Just joined a new gym near me for only £9.99 a month which I’m pleased with. I’m considering paying for a block of PT sessions to help me get back into fitness after not properly working out in an age. Any recommendations on what to look for when choosing a personal trainer to work with?

Posted by: Rooney 6th October 2017, 06:11 PM

It's difficult, especially if you are at a franchise gym (paying that price, I expect you are). Maybe try Google and see what other people have reviewed about the PTs in your gym? At the end of the day they will all have some levels of qualification, I guess it just finding one that you like and trust to help you achieve your goals.

Posted by: athena tyner 26th November 2017, 07:34 PM

I agree with you but for good fitness, you need to track your gym activities. Best for this, you can use fitness and activity tracker. My friend suggests me a good article about it..
www.toptechgiant.com/best-waterproof-fitness-tracker/

Posted by: *Tim 20th December 2017, 10:22 AM

Okay so I have actually full on started my diet and gym routine back up again. I'm currently doing a 3day split of triceps/chest, biceps/shoulders and back/legs. Not sure if this is the optimal split but it worked for me during summer so might as well

Abs are obviously a daily thing

Posted by: MvG501 1st January 2018, 08:06 PM

What are your 2018 fitness aspirations?

Posted by: Timsletoe 1st January 2018, 08:48 PM

Become buff as f***

And run the Antwerp 10 miles, but I started training for that too late me thinks

Posted by: ML Hammer95 1st January 2018, 09:25 PM

I am determined to get back into this, I do plenty of exercise but I think I spend too much time lying on my bed or sitting down. Need to tweak my diet to accommodate this and just be more active during the day.

Posted by: 5 Silas Frøkner 1st January 2018, 10:10 PM

I need to be a hella lot more active this year. It's good for my stress levels and depression so just need to drag my ass out of bed and get it done.

Posted by: lotita. 16th February 2018, 08:29 PM

Finally started being active again over the last couple weeks!! I’m trying to go to the gym 2-3 times a week and I’ve also started Pilates (first class was today and being all stretchy felt so good). I’m really just trying to get more fit to improve my general health and truly get over my knee injuries from a few years ago

Posted by: awardinary 22nd February 2018, 10:55 PM

How’s people doing with their general fitness regimes now we’re over 6 weeks into 2018?

I’ve lost a stone and been tracking daily my steps using Fitbit.

Hoping some of you who also have Fitbits will join the Buzzjack challenge posted in the lounge!

Posted by: Sarahwill 27th April 2018, 07:06 AM

At the beginning of this year, I swore that I will be more consistent with the work-outs, drink a lot of water, go running for at least 30 minutes in the morning and eat more healthy snacks. I must say that I am not succeeding so far. This thread is a good reminder that I should take care of my health and follow a fitness routine.

Posted by: Queef of Peace 17th May 2018, 07:48 PM

Can I get some Buzzjack advice??

I've kinda neglected cardio (not kind of, HAVE), as usually I ride a bike, but I've even stopped that since last winter.

I went to the gym and started pushing the sledge, 4 sets of 2 routes, and only 25 kilos (probably 45 total with the machine). I felt dizzy and kept neeidng to sit down in-between, and then after the last one I was dizzy, diluted pupils and had to go sit in the toilets. I dry wretched once, but even with a kinda full stomach nothing came up.

Is this just too much too soon, but I have started with light treadmill, or is it cause for concern? Worst case scenario would be heart disease, but isn't that more for overweight people?

Posted by: Rooney 17th May 2018, 08:32 PM

You might be pushing your body too hard too quickly. Maybe try something lighter. or at a much lower intensity If you feel dizzy don't use any equipment. Usually if you're feeling sickly after a big cardio session it's cos your body has been pushed to it's maximum capacity. I don't think running is really good for you to build up muscle density as it's not really working all your muscles and they quickly adapt.

Maybe try the cross-trainer, rowing machine or step machine but at a much lower intensity.

Posted by: Queef of Peace 17th May 2018, 08:39 PM

No, I do gym for muscle mass but stopped my classes and biking, so was doing 0 cardio except walking sometimes. I guess I pushed it to its limits, especially as I was dehydrated :/

Posted by: Cody💧Slayberry 17th May 2018, 08:40 PM

I think it's also that your body is still getting used to the level of cardio you used to do (since you're stepping into it after an extended period of time), but yeah, you're definitely overworking yourself, mainly in your resistance exercises. 45 kg is around 100 lbs and if you're feeling more lightheaded doing that then maybe it's a little too ambitious.

It's always best to do baby steps (lower intensity workouts at around the weight you're most comfortable in).

Posted by: Cameron 17th May 2018, 08:51 PM

Cardio is my favourite thing to do at the gym, you just need to get into the right headspace to do it!

Posted by: Flory 30th June 2018, 11:27 AM

Health is everything in life. I am following an exercise to put off my belly fat. But not eating healthy food But its working so well.

Posted by: Mack. 30th June 2018, 11:29 AM

Gone back to doing 10k on the exercise bike each day.

Posted by: Flory 30th June 2018, 11:39 AM

Live healthy and fit life with gym. Exercise every day. I have lost 5 in a week.

Posted by: PeteFromLeeds 13th July 2018, 11:06 AM

Went to the gym again for the first time in 6 months, yay. Maybe I'll be able to get to sleep tonight.

Posted by: Dobbo 13th July 2018, 11:07 AM

Running 10K as part of a work team triathlon next month. SOS.

Posted by: 5 Silas Frøkner 10th August 2018, 06:22 PM

Some how ended up signing up for a gym membership with people from work and agreeing to go with them before work. How do I let myself get talking into this shit

Posted by: Mack. 16th August 2018, 07:07 PM

Doing 3k powerwalks at the moment.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 16th August 2018, 07:16 PM

Going to the gym about 3/4 days a week over the summer - having separate days for legs, shoulders, chest and arms. Every session has a 5 minute sprint session on the treadmill (20 secs on, 10 secs off) at about 18km/h and a plank. Got the World Cup weight off again at least

Posted by: Rooney 16th August 2018, 07:20 PM

I'd swap out arms for back in that routine and then just tag biceps/triceps on at the end of a session

I currently do shoulders/biceps, chest/abs, legs/abs and back/triceps and then a day of cardio and abs if I can fit it in.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 16th August 2018, 07:32 PM

Fair enough, half the time I end up mixing arms with chest and shoulders anyway! Do you recommend any exercises for back?

Posted by: Oliver 16th August 2018, 07:47 PM

Joined the Pure Gym near where I live at the start of August as it was £20 a month cheaper than my local gym and it's open 24/7. I'm really enjoying it and it's got me in the mood to do well this time.

I'm just wanting to lose weight for now before toning and doing weights and stuff so I've been trying to go 3-4 times a week, doing half an hour on the cross trainer and half an hour of either walking or biking.

My thighs are my problem area (I can have the thinnest waist ever but the inside leg never seems to be big enough in the pant area ) so I'm aiming to lose an inch or two off these, as well as my gut and man boobs!

Currently lost just over a stone since the start of the year, but I'd lost that quite fast and had plateau'd so wanting to actually properly do it. I'm trying to cut down my food intake as well but that's harder than any gym workout.

Posted by: Oliver 16th August 2018, 07:50 PM

Does anyone have any tips for losing inches in those areas (thigh/gut/moob)? I'm looking at losing weight generally, but if these were to go a bit faster that would be perfect!

I've seen online that the cross trainer is a good way to go, and it's probably best as I have issues with my feet and having a low impact machine helps massively!

Posted by: Rooney 16th August 2018, 07:58 PM

Barbell rows
Dumbell rows
Pull ups
Chin ups
Lateral pull downs

There are a few good machines too, just make sure you train your lower back too!

Posted by: Rooney 16th August 2018, 08:02 PM

If you've issues with your feet then probably the cross trainer, exercise bikes or rowing machine is probably good (would avoid running full stop.. it's bad for your joints).

Best thing to do in your position is don't try to cut corners, your weight is diet controlled mainly so if you are looking to cut body fat then you have to adjust your diet with exercise otherwise it's counter productive. Doing high intensity classes would probably be good.. circuit training would be what I would recommend. The hardest part of training is pushing your body that extra 5% which people rarely do (myself included) but if you have a mini personal trainer then they'll push you and help you towards your goals.

Posted by: ML Hammer95 16th August 2018, 08:07 PM

Do rows all ready, could do with adding some lats in there! Lower back is definitely something I need to target, pretty much where all my fat is at the moment.

Posted by: Oliver 16th August 2018, 08:35 PM

There are PTs available at my gym which I might try and utilise. I've started cutting down on portion sizes and the amounts of snacks that I eat. I've got a goal weight for Christmas which I think is achievable so I just need to keep going.

I've not done any running since I finished the Great North Run three years ago, I was in so much pain for weeks afterwards that I thought I'd done some permanent damage.

Posted by: Rooney 16th August 2018, 09:40 PM

Rows are good as are pull downs, there are loads of machines for back. Do you squat? You can also train your lower back slightly squatting.



The main thing is upping your protein intake but having 0% fat meat. Snacks and unhealthy stuff are fine as long as they are in moderation, you need to treat your body still. The main thing is just keeping going. I think PTs are a massive waste of money for fitness, only use them if you are wanting to learn techniques for lifting weights etc. and even then I would use them for 5-10 hours max as they just want your money. I think circuit training would be really good for you, if you have a bit of extra fat then you might want to convert it to muscle mass.

Posted by: Mack. 14th September 2018, 08:35 PM

Might be thinking of joining a gym, which I feel will help take my mind off things.

Posted by: PeteFromLeeds 15th September 2018, 04:58 PM

I've been able to get to the gym more in the long summer I've had but I'm not sure whether I'll carry on at Uni. There's a gym near where I'll be staying but I don't think I'll buy a membership, if I go I'd probably just pay for individual sessions.

Posted by: Mack. 21st September 2018, 11:48 AM

Given this gym a month's trial to see if I like it. Doing cardio.

Posted by: CaptainMackmas 12th December 2018, 12:17 PM

BUMP

How are your plans coming along?

Posted by: Riser 13th December 2018, 03:34 AM

I won a 3-month trial membership a while back and am now 2 months into it. Still struggling to actually fit it into my schedule aside from Saturdays, but otherwise it's going well! I never thought I'd feel comfortable in a gym setting so just overcoming that has felt good.

Posted by: Mack. 2nd January 2019, 12:23 PM

What are your gym and fitness resolutions for 2019?

Posted by: Petivity 2nd January 2019, 05:15 PM

So apparently when you turn 19 the cost of a gym session at my local leisure centre doubles even with a discount card so I might be knocking it on the head. After all, I'm not fat and I do plenty of walking.

Posted by: 5 Silas Frøkner 4th January 2019, 12:14 AM

I had a membership when i was living in Berlin and was hoping to pick up a good deal after xmas from Virgin Active as the gym along the road from my house is fabulous. However it's hella expensive still with only a free January being offered. Not good enough when Pure Gym are offering that and I can swing a 30% student discount.

Bit disappointed I held out for VA and it came to nothin but I'll make do with Pure Gym for now.

Posted by: Oliver 4th January 2019, 12:16 AM

I'm at Pure Gym as well, I may have signed up for the Great North Run in September so going to have to lose some weight and train for that!

Posted by: Botchia 6th January 2019, 10:22 PM

I decided to rejoin today the gym today after like 2 years not going! I've definitely put on weight in the past 6 months or so, so I'd like to trim back to my old level. Clearly people noticed as well as so many family members were commenting at Christmas that I was looking "well fed" and "more fuller in the cheeks" lmao.

Posted by: Jade 6th January 2019, 11:54 PM

My new year's resolution was to re-introduce running on the treadmill into my daily routine and I've so far kept this up! I'm pleased with this because it does a lot for my mental health and self esteem. I was doing well at keeping it up over the summer last year but stopped around the time of starting my full-time job in September. I just felt like I was too tired all the time and had a lot less free time. But I've been pushing through these feelings and am feeling happier as a result. Here's to staying fit and losing some weight!

Posted by: Oliver 7th January 2019, 09:00 PM

So I go to log into my PureGym account to see how many people are at my gym before I make the drive down, comes back saying there are 300+ people in...

I'm going to have to go at 2am at this rate!!!

Posted by: Mack. 7th January 2019, 10:39 PM

Gone back to doing 5km on the exercise bike and then 15 minutes on the rowing machine.

Posted by: Mack. 1st September 2019, 04:18 PM

Gone back to playing table tennis twice a week. Been struggling recently with a twisted right ankle.

Posted by: Flatcap 22nd October 2019, 10:49 AM

Is the ankle better now Mack?

I have decided to join a local gym up the road just for swimming as that was my main sport when I was younger. Hopefully all being well, start tomorrow.

Posted by: Mack. 22nd October 2019, 12:29 PM

The ankle is much better thanks,

Posted by: Flatcap 23rd October 2019, 10:23 AM

Good.

I went swimming this morning. Did 5 lengths, so not bad for the first time in a while. Back next week, I will build up my level so I do it everyday I am off. Don't want to overdo it so soon.

Posted by: Flatcap 2nd January 2020, 09:23 PM

Anyone got any resolutions on this? I am keeping up the swimming and intend to walk a lot more on my days off as I (hopefully) get fitter.

Posted by: Snakebite501 2nd January 2020, 09:30 PM

Keeping up with brisk walking to work and on my days off.

Posted by: Dobbo 2nd January 2020, 09:49 PM

Not been to the gym for nearly half a year as moved flats and couldn't be bothered to switch but probs getting back into soonish. Still do plenty of exercise with half hour walk to & from work every day mixed with badminton/squash sessions!

Posted by: Snakebite501 2nd January 2020, 09:51 PM

Tried one gym but wasn't really for me..

Posted by: Rooney 2nd January 2020, 11:26 PM

They're not for everyone, but if you do want to give it a go, I'd always recommend a smaller privately run gym rather than the corporate ones. While you might see some bigger people in the smaller gyms, the owners are usually much better at helping anyone with gym anxiety and giving advice rather than the faceless corporate gyms a lot of the time.

I'm going 5 times a week at the moment as I need to be pristine for end of Jan, switching up my split weights to a HIIT weight regime complete with 500m ski-erg warmup, 10-15 mins cardio and some ab work everyday. Day one of the programme today..

Posted by: Shepeteherd 3rd January 2020, 02:27 PM

I have no resolution to go back to the gym For me it's too pricey and I end up walking about 30 minutes every day anyway, plus I don't really have the time.

Posted by: Harve 3rd January 2020, 08:40 PM

My resolution is actually to cancel my gym membership as since October I've been living too far away to make use of it properly oops. In related matters, I'm now 92kg, giving me a BMI of just under 25 (and that's due to body fat not muscle mass lmao). Losing weight is kinda a more straightforward, easier to measure, if more laborious, goal than building strength?

Gonna have to try and find some cheaper, more outdoor way of exercising. Maybe running will be easier to keep up with now that I listen to so many podcasts.

Posted by: PeteFromLeeds 6th March 2020, 08:29 PM

Went to the gym in the first time in living memory this evening - Uni were offering free virtual cycling sessions so I thought I might as well go. I don't think my legs have felt this weak in a VERY long time!

Posted by: awardinary 6th March 2020, 08:33 PM

Honestly so many germs are spread in gyms from touching gym equipment, it’s one of a few places I just wouldn’t even consider approaching at this time.

Posted by: Mack. 21st March 2020, 05:35 PM

With gyms shut,

What are you currently doing now with general fitness?

Posted by: Jade 21st March 2020, 06:22 PM

I'm lucky enough to have a treadmill at home so I am running on that for 30 mins during most nights of the week! I am currently working from home and self isolating, which means 1 hour of walking a day that I usually get from heading to the office (15 minutes x4 - I come home for my lunch break usually) has been eliminated, that's the main difference for me. Going to try and walk around the house a bit more next week, even if that's just to come downstairs to get a drink.

Posted by: Mack. 24th March 2020, 12:02 AM

Make sure that I do my walking once a day and do online exercises at home.

Posted by: Dobbo 24th March 2020, 02:23 PM

I ordered a rowing machine, planning on rowing 5k a day.

Posted by: Mack. 24th March 2020, 11:33 PM

Cool, I hope you manage to have it delivered without any problems, dobbo.

Posted by: Oricon 28th March 2020, 07:25 PM

Home workouts have done so much wonders for me everyday to kill boredom. Incorporating it on a daily schedule makes me have some sort of structured routine or else I wouldn't know what to do on my free time during times like these

Posted by: PeteFromLeeds 28th March 2020, 07:35 PM

I've been going out for walks as my daily exercise, it's not exactly strenuous but I can't say I'm in the mood for strenuous physical activity right now. I've seen the home workout routines be advertised but not tried one yet, might give it a go at some point.

Posted by: JackJones 28th March 2020, 08:23 PM

My gym is still open so I go there just like before COVID-19 so business as usual for me. I like to go there quite late and there is usually only a few others max and now with COVID-19 I am usually by myself there.

Posted by: Mack. 29th March 2020, 12:25 AM

Glad your gym is open for the moment. That will probably in the future with the gym closing depending where you are.

Posted by: Mack. 2nd April 2020, 09:47 PM

Just walks as daily exercise for me this week.

Posted by: Flatcap 5th April 2020, 08:30 PM

Walks and attempting a bit of P.E. with Joe on YouTube. Hope all are staying safe and well.

Posted by: Mack. 5th May 2020, 04:13 PM

Walking still and taking part in online fitness classes.

Posted by: Mack. 21st November 2020, 10:39 AM

BUMP

How is it going for you all?

Posted by: Flatcap 21st November 2020, 12:27 PM

Obviously stopped swimming since the first lock down. It has been mainly walking. I walk about 4-6 miles a day, often combining it with the grocery shopping.

How are you doing Mack?

Posted by: Dobbo 22nd November 2020, 09:47 AM

I been cycling for roughly an hour a day this past week, a good alternative to my usual means of exercise.

Posted by: Mack. 22nd November 2020, 01:09 PM

Still walking each day, and done some online exercise techniques.

Posted by: Brett-Butler 23rd November 2020, 06:03 PM

I'm still seeing my personal trainer each week in the gym (although from next week it's likely to be via Zoom), and I schedule at least one 10 mile run in each week (as well as a shorter 5k if I can fit it in). My weight has started to creep up in recent weeks owing to eating a lot more than usual, but thankfully not by a substantial amount, and I've started to pull things back under control. Not sure if the long runs will continue into the cold weather, especially given that I can't do them in the gym now that they're closing from Friday, but I will try to do so.

Posted by: awardinary 15th April 2021, 02:57 PM

Wondered if anyone had already joined any gyms since Monday’s lockdown easing? I’m looking around at deals but I’m not sure which is the best place yet, but at least I’ve overcome my fear of entering into a gym again despite the pandemic, it’s just finding the right fitness centre for me.

Posted by: Dobbo. 15th April 2021, 02:59 PM

Yeah I refreshed my membership with Pure Gym which I had previously ended in July 2019. Has all the equipment I'm interested in, never been one for the all signing all dancing type of gyms/leisure centres

Posted by: Rooney 15th April 2021, 03:12 PM

I go to an independent gym, I pay a bit more than the chains but it has all the equipment I need and rarely gets overly busy to be honest.

With the budget chain gyms (The Gym, Pure, Fitness First etc.) I think most of them are under £20, so it's much of a muchness. Often if you sign up and then stop your membership they will give you a lower offer for a few months. Depends what you're after in a gym you can pay £90 or you can pay £20. I think the likes of Bannantynes/Virgin/David Lloyds are only good if you're going to use pool and sauna regularly.

Posted by: steve201 15th April 2021, 04:51 PM

I just enjoy a walk most days after work and football will be starting again in the coming weeks 2-3 times per week. You couldn’t pay me to go to a gym, hate the way it’s such a factory and full of d heads comparing themselves with you. Used to have membership of the local swimming pool but gave that up due to the same things and it being so busy you feel like your treading water when doing lengths!

Posted by: PeteFromLeeds 17th April 2021, 08:49 PM

Can't see myself starting any gym memberships again either, I get the exercise I need by going on walks and I've no need to particularly improve my fitness levels right now.

Posted by: Popchartfreak 15th May 2021, 02:16 PM

Still a member of fitness first but haven't been in 18 months till I get my 2nd jab. Not so keen on booking slots in advance I prefer turning up when I feel like it and have the time so may review why I'm still paying out!

Just started playing tennis again for first time in 25 years and since I've not had a heart attack yet and seem to be improving each week I may focus on that instead. I can surprisingly still get to balls on the court as long as I'm playing someone my standard

Posted by: Mack. 16th May 2021, 02:30 PM

Gone for walks most days.

Posted by: Quarantilas 13th June 2021, 09:39 AM

I went back to the Gym today for the first time in like 8 months because they finally reopened here again. Felt good

Have to have a negative test result to go in but you can take a self test and do it there or of course just go to one of the millions of test centres for a free one (the fully vaxxed are exempt from testing but have to show proof of vax)