Category

Fitness

Category

It’s been some time since I updated this blog. However, my absence was not due to a lack of activity. In fact, I’ve been busier than ever before, pursuing my goals and staying active. It was only recently that I realised just how grateful I am for the opportunities that I have had.

And that is why I wanted to come back and share some of my experiences with you, including my journey with Pilates sessions in Kew East.

Back in 2019, I was struggling with my weight due to stress eating and joint pain. Weight-bearing exercises were not an option for me, which is why I decided to try Pilates.

I had heard great things about this form of exercise, including its potential to help with weight loss, muscle tone, and flexibility. I discovered that Pilates was originally and specifically created for the military to help with injury recovery, so I figured it was worth giving it a shot.

I found a fantastic studio in around my area with a certified instructor who made me feel comfortable and supported. Although I was nervous about starting something new, the instructor was patient and encouraging, and I soon found myself enjoying the classes.

I was also happy to discover that the other people in the class were supportive and welcoming, which made the experience even better.

During my first few Pilates sessions, I realised that this form of exercise was more than just physical movements. It also helped me connect my mind and body, much like yoga.

I learned how to breathe properly and engage my core muscles, which helped me maintain proper form during the workouts. The instructor also introduced me to various equipment, such as the reformer, which added an extra challenge to the exercises.

As I continued with my Pilates sessions, I began to see improvements in my body. I felt more toned, more flexible, and had more energy throughout the day.

Although I wasn’t seeing any dramatic changes in my weight at first, I could tell that my overall health and fitness were improving. Despite my busy schedule, I made sure to continue attending the sessions.

Of course, there were times when I felt discouraged. There were weeks when I didn’t see any changes or when I struggled to keep up with the other people in my class. However, I reminded myself of why I started this journey in the first place.

I wanted to feel better in my own body, have more energy, and be healthier overall. Pilates also became my escape from the stresses of work life.

Over time, my hard work began to pay off. My muscles became more defined, and I became more flexible, which helped in my daily grind. I also began to see a reduction in my weight, which was a great feeling.

Even my friends started to comment on the positive changes they can see in my body! It took months of hard work and I’m not there yet, but I’m quite optimistic about how things are going.

Then 2020 came and a lot of things changed. When the pandemic hit, I was worried about how I would continue my Pilates practice. Fortunately, the studio in Kew East quickly adapted to the situation and started offering virtual sessions.

Although it wasn’t quite the same as being in a physical class, it was still a great way to stay active and connected with my Pilates community. I got somewhat lucky that there is enough space in my home to create a “mini-studio” for my Pilates sessions.

As restrictions began to ease in 2021, I was excited to return to in-person Pilates sessions in Kew East. Being able to work out in a studio again and connect with my instructor and classmates was a wonderful feeling.

It was great to be surrounded by people working towards a common fitness goal. I was thrilled to show everyone my progress, even during the pandemic. Of course, there were a few pauses here and there, but overall, I am happy and satisfied with what I’ve accomplished.

Reflecting on my Pilates journey, I am grateful for the transformative power of this discipline and will always recommend it to others who want to start on their fitness journey!

For those who want to know more about pilates before you take the first session, you can read this article.

Back in 2019, I remembered my first month of Pilates classes. I wasn’t happy because I’ve noticed no reduction in my weight, considering I had 8 sessions with a Pilates instructor. I was faced with the dilemma of whether or not I can endure more hard work without no results or just get a refund and step out of the gym.

I decided to try Pilates class because first, I was gaining a lot of weight due to stress eating and diet alone cannot suffice for my need to lose weight. And second, I am unable to perform weight-bearing exercises such the treadmill, high-impact aerobics or stair climbing.

With a clear mind and a strong conviction that I can lose weight, I endeavored to go on and continue my Pilates class. For some reason, maybe my weekly sessions weren’t enough to meet my goals. And so, I increased my gym visits and had 3-4 sessions per week moving forward. I had 1-2 sessions of Pilates Jumpboard and 2 Pilates for weight loss.

Frown turned into grin a few weeks passed, when I saw my weight looking good with a few pounds shed off. I can’t stress this enough, but losing weight is never easy. There are no shortcuts or magic spells that would transform you overnight.

Just to be clear, I have nothing negative about Pilates group class. In fact, I’ve known friends and colleagues in the same gym and I’m glad to witness their numbers going down.

It may or may not work for some. In my case, personalised pilates session in Carlton North gave positive results. I haven’t hit the spotlight yet, but losing 9kgs in 5 months is not bad at all.

To this day, I believe, I’ve been doing Pilates for more than a year juggling work and family all together. It’s not easy but it’s possible. It’s a little crazy.

I know, it’s been a difficult year for everyone, with lockdown implementation and safety protocols mandated due to Coronavirus, workout trainings and programs froze. Health buffs also went on a halt with their regimen.

Thanks to the internet, virtual platforms didn’t stop me from working out. I didn’t mind turning my living room into a mini studio as my Pilates instructor taught me via Zoom. The training wasn’t perfect but it was convenient, not going through the pressure of commuting to the gym.

Looking back, my first impression about Pilates – it’s not that effective. A lot of factors came into mind such as; will it affect my posture or my muscle tone etc.? And it did, after a month of increased number of sessions.

There was progress indeed, a change in my body shape and my muscles are well-toned now. Surprisingly, I even had to change some of my wardrobe one size smaller. It’s a wonderful feeling.

If there is one thing about Pilates that I have to be thankful for, that would be my increased energy level. Roughly 50% of my energy soared and my performance at work increased to a higher level as well.

Compared to my old routine where I would go home and must be in bed by 9PM, today, I am eager to go out and have coffee with friends or even do my grocery shopping without feeling exhausted.

Moreover, Pilates enhances flexibility. This means you can manage your body movements easily because it prevents you from falling or tripping. I believe it’s the stretching aspect of my Pilates workout that made me more flexible and stronger.

My body aches were reduced to a certain extent. Why is this true? Well, I seldom go to the spa clinic now for a body massage. I used to put hot packs on my back for some relief. Now they’re just gathering dust in the shelf as I can’t remember the last time I used them.

I welcomed Pilates in my life a year ago with open arms and the hurdles of the first months are just part of it. Like I said, there are no shortcuts to progress.

It may be a surprising analogy but much of what is taught in yoga mirrors the principles of getting in the flow of organising. There’s a general misconception that being organised, or getting organised, is boring, strict and controlling. It couldn’t be further from the truth, there’s a spiritual element to getting organised that’s often overlooked which can be used across life.

  1. You can’t be wrong: We’re all unique so there’s many ways of achieving the same outcome. There are modifications for all Yoga poses for a reason, not all bodies can do the same thing. The same goes for organising, everyone’s organising level is different, and it takes time to find what works for you.
  2. It’s about the journey: As in Yoga, there is not a point that you will be ‘done’. Life is an endless cycle of using items, putting them back; acquiring items, letting go of others. The cycle is the point of organisation, not the destination of a magazine perfect house.
  3. Your intention keeps you focused: By focusing on what is important to you, achievements become a reality and help get you back on track when other distractions come up.
  4. Keep going: Progress is a product of patience. I’ve not known anyone who will try the Crow pose on the first go and get it. It’s something that has to be tried again and again before it’s accomplished. It’s the same with reaching an organising goal. Chunking a task down into manageable pieces keeps energy high and flowing.

  1. Every day is different: Some days on the mat you feel limber and happy, you’re able to get into poses easily and without strain. Other days it’s tiring and your body doesn’t want to do anything but child’s pose. Staying on top of life admin and being organised across all areas of life comes in waves, some days it all seems to work and other days will show that tweaks need to be made to handle new strains.
  2. Choose love and vulnerability: Yoga teaches us to be in the moment, to stay with our feelings. Organising demands the same. If we’re decluttering, for example, we must be honest about whether we need the item or if it’s fear that we may need it later, that makes us hold on to it.
  3. Observing yourself is a great asset: Rather than get angry at your past purchasing ‘mistakes’ or regrets, these are opportunities to learn about yourself. As they say in Yoga, each breath is a new chance, a fresh start; so to are opportunities to let go.

This guest post is written by Christie Flora.

If you are looking for a professional organiser based in Melbourne, Australia, you can contact Christie at flor&order (www.florandorder.com). She also helps with wardrobe organising and can be hired for one on one coaching sessions to assist you in living a calmer, decluttered, and happier life.

Strong is the new sexy. Women in the modern society are now starting to embrace fitness over and above skinny figures. Even in the fashion industry, we are seeing models with more flesh and muscles than bones. Today, women train and boy do they train hard. While many stick to the mainstream activities, like gym sessions and outdoor sports, I go in a different direction. I discovered indoor futsal and the benefits it brings to my physique. Here, I will share with you the 5 reasons why we, the women of the world, should embrace indoor futsal with open arms.

Improves Cardiovascular Fitness

Futsal, considered as the smaller-format of soccer, is an aerobic activity. It therefore improves your breathing and heart functions. The game is played with different maneuvers, including frequent and rapid shifts from running to walking to sprinting, and vice versa. In the process, you burn fats or simply lower your cholesterol count. With less fats, the better your cardio fitness becomes.

Tones Muscles

Losing body fats can leave your skin saggy without proper and regular exercise. If you’re looking for a fun, collaborative way to firm up your muscles, play futsal with friends and loved ones. Observe the school girls who are soccer players. Their legs are sexy, as well as their arms and abdominal muscles. Unlike gym sessions, playing futsal does not lead to bulking up. I personally don’t want an overly bulky or muscular build for a woman as it loses femininity. With a smaller ball size, lighter weight, and restricted bounce, the ball used in futsal won’t demand much force from players. So, you can very well tone your muscles the right way.

Avoids Skin Damage

Playing rough sports may cause injuries. Running a marathon exposes the skin to the harmful UV rays, pollutants, and other potentially damaging factors. Just hanging out under the roof, such as in a pilates center or gym, can become dull in the long run without interaction. With all these considerations, I strongly suggest you find an indoor physical activity that is equally interactive, just like futsal. Skin care, after all, is not only a matter of product application and regular clinic treatments, you have to also stay away from some outdoor activities as the skin ages faster with constant exposure to the intense sun heat.

Promotes Socialization

If men are generally logical beings, women are relational creatures. We thrive in socialization, even when we undertake ordinary tasks like stitching or baking. So it’s not surprising why women initiate tea parties or organize clubs. The same is true for the sport, indoor futsal. Clubs and organizations such the Australian Women’s Futsal Team, Moreland Futsal Club, and Melbourne Heart exist and strengthen not only the sport, but also the social relationship of the players. I find this quite exciting and adventurous for you get to play in different futsal stadium locations in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, or in any other city.

Sharpens Strategic Thinking

Futsal also enhances cognitive thinking which makes it a holistic sport, targeting both the mind and the body. In my profession, mental acuity, strategic thinking, and quick decision-making are crucial. And I like the fact that all these can be further honed simply by playing a ball game. A sharp mind is demanded when the ball is passed on to you and because there is time pressure, you are to decide quickly which action to take. When playing futsal, one never notices that he/she is already learning, already firming up.

Many may be hesitant to treat futsal as an exercise for women. Being related to football, futsal may also be classified as intense and rugged, not ideal for females. But I tell you, things are not always what they seem. With smaller courts, lighter ball, and less strict rules, futsal is in many ways softer and gentler than it appears. You’ll definitely love it, just as much as I do.

In my personal experience, there are only two time-tested and fool-proof ways in which you can actually lose weight permanently and without any of the nasty side effects of diet pills – regular exercise and making the correct food choices. Choosing the correct food to help you lose weight can be pretty easy, but getting yourself to really sweat it out can be very challenging to some folks. The good news is that you can now actually lose weight even while you’re sitting down or doing the things you enjoy the most. A number of vibration machine reviews talk about the benefits of using such a machine and one of the most striking so far is its weight loss benefits. Did I get your attention? You should! Many of the friends I know who have used such a machine claim it works. If they can get the results they want, you, too, can lose weight using a vibration machine.

The idea about vibration machines is that it produces vibrations (hence, the name) that are transmitted throughout the rest of the body. A motor runs a mechanism on the bathroom weighing scale-like contraption which produces vibrations in a variety of ways, depending on the mechanism. Some platforms have a see-saw-like movement while others create an up-down motion much like an elevator. Others incorporate another plane of movement to create 3-dimensional movement. Others integrate a 4th plane of motion to create 4D.

These movements occur at a very rapid pace which you can actually control using buttons on the device. The faster the speed of the motor, the greater is the intensity of the vibrations. When these vibrations are transmitted through the body they stimulate the muscles in your body to contract and relax at almost the same frequency as the vibrations. This is the secret to a vibration machine’s work in helping you shave off several grams off of your weight at a time.

When we exercise you’ll mostly feel tingling sensations as if your muscles are being pricked by very tiny needles. Then you’ll definitely feel warmer. This is evidence that your muscles are working. They are essentially contracting and relaxing. Every time they contract they use up energy. And whenever energy utilisation in the body is involved you have to think about mobilising your fat stores.

A personal trainer friend of mine told me that vibration machines simulate the reflex contraction of muscles. He says that the frequency and vibration of the machine is what takes the place of weights in conventional strength training. What it does is that the vibrations activate more muscles a lot faster than conventional workouts. I’ll translate it in hopefully much simpler terms. You only need to a few minutes on a vibration machine to achieve the same kind of result that you would in any other type of exercise equipment.

Don’t believe me? Well, consider this. Your 10 minutes on a vibration machine set to its max is actually equivalent to 60 minutes of jogging or biking or 30 minutes of swimming and doing yoga or sit-ups. That’s about 400 to 600 calories burned already for a 100-kilogramme individual. And the good news is that you are never going to really sweat it out or even exert any force at all. You could very well be sitting on your couch watching your favourite TV programme or reading a novel you wanted to finish and the machine does it for you.

Vibration machines can help you lose weight. However, if you don’t watch what you’re eating, then you’ll be gaining weight as fast as you’ve lost it. The key to losing weight is to have higher energy expenditure than what you are actually consuming. Well, the process is actually very complicated, but let me put it in a simpler way. If you have an average calorie requirement of 3000, then your energy expenditure should be higher than that, say 3500. This creates a negative calorie balance, making your body to use up fat reserves.

Losing weight is best accomplished by making sensible food choices and revving up your physical activities. And if you’re like most folks I know who cannot be encouraged to hit the gym, then a vibration machine should help you obtain the weight you’ve ever wanted.