National Fitness Day: What exercise means to us at Inzpire
18 Sep 24
Wellbeing
18 Sep 24
Wellbeing
National Fitness Day on 18th September is the UK’s biggest celebration of health and fitness, so we thought we’d ask some of our team members what they love about being active!
The theme for 2024 is ‘Your health is for life’; it holds a powerful message that can resonate with us all. National Fitness Day is not just about exercising, but by taking small steps towards a more active lifestyle to protect and improve your general health and wellbeing.
Here’s what some of our team had to say about how fitness has improved their lives..
“I started running in lockdown (like so many people!) but I have continued to run a few times a week and find that it really helps me to reset, and I also enjoy the social element.
“I try and run during a few lunchtimes each week which helps me to get outside and away from the screen to have a proper break, which I am especially grateful for in winter.”
Grace Stenhouse, Finance and Management Accountant
“I have been stand up paddleboarding (SUP) for about four years now. For me, it combines a lot of the things that I get the greatest sense of reward from, including being outdoors, developing my skills, companionship, mindfulness and challenging myself physically.
“I find being on a small object in the middle of a great expanse of water very appealing! I’ve been able to find likeminded people, both outside and inside of work, who share a similar interest. I was lucky enough to organise a team to compete in the Trent 100km Challenge in July 2024, where we raised over £1200 for Macmillan.”
Andy Norris, Head of Division
“Exercise has been a major part of my adult life. I love the endorphin rush after a hard session or the mind-clearing drift of a slow jog – anything that gets me up and moving (which is important with two young children!).
“I have a regular pattern of running, rowing, gym and even yoga – but my true love is mountain biking. It combines exercise and adrenaline in one amazing activity and is my go-to sport whenever time allows.
“Inzpire is so supportive. I’m a big fan of lunchtime training, but always know that I can schedule something in – whether that’s a run from home or exploring whilst away.”
Chris Barstow, Cyber Security Consultant
"I used to run my own personal & group training business. It began focussed on pre/post-natal exercise when I realised there was nothing active for me to do with my children when I had them.
"Now I’m 43 with children 8-15 and work remotely, I’ve had to adapt and self-motivate far more, but it’s important to show the children that you have to work hard, organise and prioritise your fitness, set goals and take on challenges. I believe that this attitude will then spill over into other elements, allowing you to push the limits, take risks and believe in yourself.
"I like to exercise because it reduces stress, helps with menopause symptoms and helps with mental and physical wellbeing.
"Working remotely allows me the flexibility to still get exercise in; I work well from home, so not having to travel to a gym (as I have one outside at home) helps me to maxmise the use of time in my day and maintain a good balance."
Clare Foster, Cyber Exercise Planner
"I started gig rowing back in May 2019 when I entered a charity 10K rowing race around Portsmouth Harbour for Oarsome Chance, however, it was not until two years ago that I fully discovered my love for the sport when I commenced rowing for the Royal Navy Pilot Gig Club (RNPGC).
"I best explain what gig rowing is. A pilot gig is a long, narrow, paddle-powered vessel with six fixed seats for oarsmen and helmed by a Coxswain. Gigs were originally used to transport a ‘pilot’ from land to large vessels in need of specialist navigation to get them safely into port.
"Along with the team, I represented Help 4 Heroes in the World Pilot Gig Rowing Championships in the Isles of Scilly in May, and will also be rowing in the county championships in October.
"For me, gig rowing is a holistic sport that complements gym training while providing mental respite, mindfulness and focus. It’s all about spending time on the water, surrounded by the camaraderie of fellow rowers, all while improving cardiovascular fitness.”
Dave Stanbury, Maritime Operations and Seabed Warfare SME
“I like to exercise because it clears my head. Pushing myself to lift the weight or run further shows that I can do things that I view as difficult or challenging, which is satisfying.
“I enjoy lifting weights at the gym and combining this with cardio such as running or hyrox circuits. I love that Inzpire allows you to have opportunities to exercise such as taking a walk or going to the gym.”
Pippa Bailey, Apprentice Receptionist
03.10.24
Inzpire
On 2nd October, we were delighted to host our inaugural Annual Reception at London’s award-winning gallery, Frameless.
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