May is here, summer’s incoming…keep moving; the best is yet to come!

Ok, the rain is still lingering, but the temperature is up – can we take the coats off yet? Warmer temperatures = summer sports season are firmly upon us. So, it might be when you think of dragging your running shoes out of the cupboard or dusting off your tennis racquet. Certainly, the time to ditch indoor exercise and fitness for the outdoors, which is so much better for us because:

  • It lowers blood pressure and reduces stress. Meaning exercise feels less strenuous, and you work out a little harder.
  • Fresh air and natural light invigorate and provide more energy for the mind and body.
  • It improves your ability to sleep. It’s that fresh air at work again!
  • Sunshine delivers that all-important Vitamin D.
  • It offers you a chance to mix up your training or try something new.
  • You are likelier to persuade your reluctant family off the sofa and away from screens.

Hello, May and roll on the summer.

When cycling sportives, triathlons, and ironman events take place. When weightlifting meets, outdoor athletics, CrossFit competitions and other wonderful outdoorsy activities happen. See, there is so much variety whether you are a participant, want to try something new, or are a spectator. When instead of watching it on the television, you might be more inclined to go and watch it up close and personal.

Let me introduce myself.

Jenny has kindly given me access to the blog, so let me introduce myself. I’m Becky, a Chartered Physiotherapist, and I’ve recently opened a sports massage clinic at Sarum Physiotherapy Centre and I’m having a glorious time.

And as you can probably already tell, I’m a sucker for anything active. Cycling, running, weightlifting, a spot of paddleboarding, I even dabble in a bit of CrossFit. So naturally, because nothing is ever good enough, I’ve decided to train for an Ironman. I often get asked, ‘which one?’ Truthfully, I’m starting from scratch, so I’ll keep you posted on that.

However, I am trying to practice what I preach. That goes for sports massage, too, as it has assisted with my weightlifting endeavours and helped me optimise my performance and recovery. Without it, I’m not sure my back would move at all!

So, yes, I will take all my best advice and that of others at Sarum. Plus, tapping into the knowledge that Richard has and learning from his experience running the London Marathon – when he also had to take his own advice.

What will you try this summer?

So, as the warmer weather returns this May, are you returning to a sport you’ve missed over the winter months? Are you participating in an Ironman competition, and could we swap notes? Weather is no longer the excuse, so set the intention to get out more – soak up that Vitamin B and enjoy a more restful night’s sleep!

And if you are worrying about an old injury, ache or pain, call 01722 415 055 to make an appointment, and if you need a sports massage on your team, I ask for Becky.

Finally, the photos are of me in action and in my natural habitat with a very reluctant spaniel… and me weightlifting.