Dame Kelly Holmes' life has been affected by cancer
Dame Kelly Holmes MBE is no stranger to staying fit, and here she shares her tips to help us all get in shape.
The athlete was recently confirmed at Tesco's Ambassador for this year’s Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, in partnership with Tesco.
2012 marks the eleventh year of Tesco’s partnership with Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life, the largest series of women only fundraising events in the UK.
Dame Kelly Holmes had a close friend who suffered with breast cancer and lost her former coach Dave Arnold to cancer in 2006, so it is a cause that is very close to her heart.
Dame Kelly says: “Race for Life in partnership with Tesco is a fantastic event and gives all women, regardless of age and fitness level, the opportunity to get together, have fun and celebrate life, as well as enjoy the spirit of health and fitness which is very close to my heart. I’d urge all women to sign up now and help make a difference in the fight against cancer.”
As well as taking part in the event, Dame Kelly has put together her top tips to help women lead a healthy lifestyle, whatever their fitness level:
- Set yourself a goal and have a purpose
It is always easier to stay motivated if you set out with a goal. Whether that be wanting to look good on holiday in three months, or being competitive in a marathon in six months’ time, the extra focus that purpose provides is crucial.
- Eat well
I have always tried to eat a healthy and balanced diet and it is really important if you want to see results in your performance. You can afford to have a few treats, if you stick to my principle of everything in moderation. And a good breakfast is key.
- Make exercise part of your lifestyle
It can be difficult to find blocks of time in which to exercise, so I suggest incorporating activity into your day rather than trying to plan it into a full schedule. Make small changes to your lifestyle. i.e take the stairs instead of the lift or get off a tube stop early and walk. It all adds up.
- Exercise with a friend
Exercising on your own can become lonely quickly, and gives you more of a reason to give up. By teaming up with a friend, you can keep each other motivated. Taking a quick 5-10 minutes stroll with a colleague after lunch everyday will reap large benefits over time.
- Vary it
Keep your activity interesting. The body gets used to the same exercise over time, so keep it fresh.
Femalefirst Taryn Davies
Tagged in Athlete Health exercise fitness tips