Taskmaster Fitness

Just a heads up!

Those thinking about giving my online class a go, I have a new block starting in a couple of weeks.

New block means new workouts and a new challenge that we work towards for the next 8 weeks.

This could be nice prep to have you ready for the silly season which is Christmas. And I don't mean 'get in shape for Christmas'.

I mean, let's build some stamina and strength, to handle all the get togethers.

Whether they be family walks, trips to the theatre for panto, or standing up Christmas soirees. As fun as the season is, it can also be tiring so let's put ourselves in the best possible position to handle it.

If you want access to the first class for free, drop me 'yes please' in the comments below and I'll make sure you're on the list!

Life!
If I'm going to be here a long time, I wanna be having a good time

🏋️‍♂️ Move It to Improve It—The Right Way! 💪
Living with osteoarthritis? It’s tough, but here’s a powerful truth: exercise is one of the best things you can do for your joints—when done right.

We’re not talking about pushing through pain. The key is regular movement within your pain limits and gradually increasing your range of motion. This approach helps you build reliable strength without triggering more discomfort. Over time, you’ll notice better mobility and less pain. 🙌

Whether it’s gentle walks, swimming, or simple stretches, every small step forward counts. Your joints need movement to stay healthy, but it doesn’t have to hurt. Focus on what feels good, and don’t rush. It’s the consistent, pain-friendly movement that makes the difference. 💥

You’ve got this. Your body will thank you! 🚶‍♀️🏊‍♂️

We can be forgiven for thinking that the only way to look after osteoarthritis is by moving and taking pain relief.

Which is largely true. But!

Sometimes we know what to do but we still don't do it.

We know the grass needs cutting regularly in spring and summer but we still leave it to the last minute.

Or...

We know that eating more vegetable is good for us but we still find we don't have time to prepare or cook them.

This is where it can become more of a mindset issue.

Doing the exercises is never as bad as we think it's going to be but we still find it challenging to get round to doing them.

So! As well as being a personal trainer, I am now a certified Holistic Mindset coach.

Thank you to Eileen McCotter-Davies and her terrific Holistic Coaching School.

So when your willpower seems a little flaky, ask yourself, what does a part of me need right now to make the choices that serve me best?

I'll be curious to know what comes up :)

Have a good one today.

Loads of great expertise at the Samson Centre, anyone with MS would be in good hands there👍 🙌

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. It disrupts the flow of information between the brain and the body, leading to a wide range of symptoms such as fatigue, mobility issues, cognitive difficulties, and more.

MS can vary greatly between individuals—some people may have mild symptoms, while others may face more severe challenges.

Understanding what MS is and how it affects daily life is crucial in providing support to those living with it.

Follow for more advice and support on understanding and managing MS.

Just wanted to share what other people have been saying about working with me...

If you want to see I could help you, we can have a chat about it, if you want...

Here's a link to find a time that suit you...

https://calendly.com/taskmasterfitness/exercise-will-it-work-for-me?back=1&month=2024-09

Hey, have you thought about what you would like to happen between now and Christmas?

Osteoarthritis is a long term problem - my full sympathies by the way.

The trouble with long term problems is they require long term solutions. There's no quick fix - "here take this pill and you'll be fine".

Instead, it's more about making small changes on a daily or weekly basis and keeping that up forever!

Which sounds incredibly arduous, boring and hard work - well it does to me anyway.

This is why, the age old advice of breaking things down into smaller chunks and aiming for a series of milestones is still relevant today.

Tonight in my HIIT & CHAT class we'll be checking in with each other and seeing how we're doing.

What do you need today that will help your osteoarthritis in future?

Drop your question below, you never know who might be experiencing the same thing and maybe a step ahead of you.

🦵🌟 Take Control of Osteoarthritis—It’s Not Your Fault, But Here’s What You Can Do! 🌟🦵

Living with osteoarthritis (OA) can feel like an uphill battle, but it’s crucial to remember: it’s not your fault. Your pain and stiffness are real, and you’re not alone.

Over 8 million people in the UK are facing the same challenge. But guess what? You have the power to take control and improve your quality of life. Here’s how! 💪

🏋️‍♂️ 1. Move It or Lose It!
You might think, "How can I exercise when I’m in pain?" But the truth is, exercise is one of the best things you can do for your joints. Regular activity—like walking, swimming, or strengthening exercises—can actually reduce pain and improve your mobility. The more you move, the better you’ll feel. It’s a fact! Your joints need movement, and every step forward counts.

🥦 2. Nourish Your Body!
Fueling your body with the right foods isn’t about dieting—it's about feeling good, having energy to do the things you love, and supporting your body’s natural ability to repair and recover. Think fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

These foods can help you feel full, content, and ready to tackle the day. You deserve to enjoy meals that not only taste great but also help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. Every nourishing choice is a step toward feeling stronger and more vibrant.

👟 3. Gear Up for Success!
Don’t underestimate the power of the right gear. Investing in supportive footwear and considering insoles can provide much-needed relief. And if a walking stick or knee brace helps you get around more comfortably, use it proudly. These tools aren’t signs of defeat—they’re signs of strength!

🗣️ 4. Knowledge is Power!
Understanding osteoarthritis is the first step in managing it. Educate yourself about the condition, know your options, and ask questions. The more you know, the better you can advocate for your health.

❤️ 5. You Are Not Alone!
Support is out there, whether it’s from healthcare professionals, support groups, or loved ones. Reach out, share your experiences, and find comfort in knowing that others understand what you’re going through.

💥 Takeaway: You Didn’t Choose Osteoarthritis, But You Can Choose How to Fight It! 💥

You don’t have to let osteoarthritis dictate your life.

By focusing on movement, nourishing your body, and using the right tools, you can take charge of your symptoms and regain control.

Remember, every effort you make is a step towards feeling better. So, keep moving, keep learning, and keep believing in your ability to manage osteoarthritis!

Want to hear more about my upcoming project to help those with OA help themselves, drop a OA in the comments below.

*Volunteers needed for tea and a natter*
We have a lovely, friendly team at the Samson Centre, and are looking for like minded people who can spare a couple of hours per week.
If you like building relationships and love popping the kettle on, this could be the role for you.
Other days are available, but Thursday is currently the day we could do with the most help.
If you would like further information, please message Debbie on [email protected]
We would love to hear from you ♥️
www.samsoncentre.org.uk

Going to the gym has nothing to do with what you look like...

When you have osteoarthritis you just need the gym to do the exercises that will mean you can get on with what you really want to do.

This could be anything and some of the things I have heard people say are...

- I just want to be able to climb the stairs normally
- I can't enjoy walking like I used to and I want that back
- I can't get up and down off the floor very easily and that puts me off going to classes like yoga or pilates
- I have to say no sometimes to spending time with friends sometimes as they will want to go for a walk before coffee and I don't feel I can manage it all
- I know that taking painkillers everyday isn't a good thing and I wish I didn't have to

What would you really like to do but feel you can't because of your osteoarthritis?

If you feel comfortable, let me know in the comments, I'm sure you won't be the only one...

P.s the pic below is of me paddle boarding in Christchurch this summer, going to the gym helps me have the strength and balance to stand up and paddle like that. And! Puts that big smile on my face

See you in a few hours for the physio mini retreat, 12pm!

It's coming back!

For me, rehab has evolved for myself and I look forward to sharing that with you. I will be keen to hear about what's happening with you and your rehab.

Take 10 minutes tomorrow to tune in and complete your physio exercises. Sometimes we just need to feel like we're not the only one.

I won't be giving out any physio advice, obviously! I will have no idea about your current situation and! I'm not actually a physio but I can encourage you to follow your Physio's advice 😁

See you tomorrow!

Having osteoarthritis and being told losing weight can help can feel uncomfortable 🙃

Beneath the layers, there maybe a sense of shame and dislike for ourselves in some way, maybe we're not good enough. As if we were maybe this wouldn't have happened to us.

This train of thought, can lead us to in-action and not seeing possible solutions as possible for us.

If this resonates with you and you feel open-minded...

Maybe you could consider accepting your body as it is today (rather than blaming it) and choose to treat it well?

How does that feel?

***
I must thank Psychologies magazine and a lady called Becci Gowers for helping find the words to this way of thinking that hear often.
***

If you have some physio exercises that you need to do this week, come and join me tomorrow when I do mine.

We've all been there, when the physio sees you at your next appointment and asks: did you do your physio exercises?

You nod and say yes you did.

But!

What you're not saying is, you only did them yesterday because you knew you had a physio appointment today.

We've all been there. And granted, sometimes we're more compliant than other times. But let me help you be more consistent with a Physio Mini Retreat.

This Physio mini retreat is meant to sound good, hence calling it a 'mini retreat'.

It's a time and space where you can show up to me as a rehab specialist and do the work! You won't be alone, I'll be doing my rehab too. As well as others.

This will happen every week for the forseeable future, so if you have physio exercises to do, get involved!

See you tomorrow at 12pm 😁

I'm on annual leave! As of 4pm today!
Have a good one yourself and see you next week 😁

The physio mini retreat has taken a bit of a hiatus!

But!

It will be back! Most likely the 20 August at 1pm.

It as an opportunity for anyone with rehab exercises to have a fixed time each week, where they know they will get the exercises done.

And I'll share my own personal journey and the experiences I have as a rehabilitation specialist.

Have a great couple of weeks!

Online class:
HIIT & CHAT at 1730
Tonight!

From someone who is doing it...

No Physio Mini Retreat today
- more staff training

Don't go through life believing that...

"What is 'supposed' to happen will happen"

You create your experience with every and action and thought.

Akin Olokun | Facebook: TheGoodQuote

Taking the opportunity to share a little about me. Nothing too grand!

No I wasn't the sporty kid in school, I have grown and learnt a lot since then.

Which helps me, help my clients, find what works for them, as adult life moves on.

What we thought was important in our 20s looks very to different to what's important in our 40s and beyond.

It's important to embrace exercise, we know that more and more. But knowing it and taking action can still be a big leap.

With lots of questions and what ifs to answer.

So, if you find yourself wanting a helping hand, I might not be a bad shout. For a while anyway, so we can get you going in the right direction.

No Physio Mini Retreat today
Staff training!
Do send in any questions.