40 Days of Fitness Challenge #FitnessRevolution - Days 1-5

As I explained a few days ago, DW Fitness are offering their support to myself and a handful of other bloggers across the country in leading a more active lifestyle. Throughout the period of lent we will be partaking in different challenges each day; getting progressively more difficult as we go on. The challenges are predominently fitness focused, but not restricted to and are helping me get back in the habit of expecting to do some form of exercise (whether for a short period or long) each day. I'll be honest and tell you that I haven't as yet found the challenges taxing at all, but I am seeing some benefits all the same. For me, a good fitness routine is all about momentum and this challenge is forcing good habits already. Expecting to exercise daily is a good start, and as the days pass and training becomes less of a chore, the easier it will become to increase the level of activity. I'm going to document the challenge as I work through it, and hopefully encourage one or two of you to follow suit along the way. If you would like the details of the challenge sharing, then feel free to ask. I'd be happy to share them with you, and help you as DW Fitness are helping me.

Here's how I have been getting on in the early stages;

Day 1: Walk, Jog or Run for 20 mins.

I used to run regularly and enjoyed doing so. A few years ago though, I injured both knees and passed on the opportunity to have them both operated on. I decided I would rather limit myself to certain activities than stop exercising altogether for such a long recovery period that would have followed 2 knee operations. I have only ran 2 or 3 times in the last 4 years! Not one to shirk a challenge though, I laced up my trainers and took to the roads and jogged my way round the hilly area we live in. I was relieved to come through unscathed.

Day 2: Squats. 3 sets of 30 reps.

Squatting is something anyone can do; without equipment and in the comfort of their own bedroom like I did. I don't struggle with squats but my right knee ballooned following these (probably linked with the run the day before mind). Never the less, I pushed all 90 squats out at a slow pace.

Day 3: Plank and hold for as long as possible.

I've planked in the past, but I don't ever recall trying to hold it until failure and nor have I ever timed the exercise. I had no idea what kind of time to expect but was quite pleased with the result.

Day 4: #3MinuteChallenge

The 3 minute challenge is something that will be used as a benchmark throughout this challenge. A way of measuring improvement. The challenge was to perform 3 exercises for 1 minute each and complete as many reps as possible. Jump Squats, Star Jumps and Situps. This challenge was the hardest so far, and thats because you're forced to push yourself to the limit, even if only for a short period of time. The hardest thing about it though is how fast your heart rate climbs. I'm going to experiment with this one, and try doing it after a light work out next week rather than from cold. The speed in which my heartrate shot up left me feeling lightheaded after what was in fact only a 3 minute workout.

Day 5: Day Off

Rest is important and should be factored into any fitness routine - this one being no different. Day 5 was a day to rest, but with the challenge of cooking a fresh, healthy meal. I was tasked to prepare a Thai Curry with fresh herbs and coconut milk. It's a refreshing idea to push people in the kitchen and challenge their diet and one that I'm looking forward to over the next few weeks. Today was a bit of a cheat day for me though. I cook thai curry a couple of times every month and made quick work of a shrimp version.

It's been a positive start, but there's a long way to go. Bring it on!