New year, new you - getting fit in Glastonbury

According to government figures it seems that a mere 37 per cent of men and 24 per cent of women take enough exercise to get any benefit from it. To avoid obesity, heart disease and other life-limiting conditions, the government's chief medical officer recommends indulging in 30 minutes of moderate physical activity five times a week.

Unsurprisingly then, this is the time of year when many people (including me) decide to change their habits and get fit as part of their New Year's Resolutions.   Alongside quitting smoking, cutting down on drinking or finding a new job, joining a gym is one of the most common things people choose to do to better themselves.

With a varied routine not only can you lose weight, but you can improve flexibility, mobility, posture and strength.  Unfortunately maintaining focus and enthusiasm is where most people fail after an initial enthusiastic burst of good intention and in Glastonbury and Street there are three gyms you can choose where there are a range of activities, up-to-date equipment and advice on hand so that realistic personal targets can be discussed to help you stay on track.  

1610 (formerly known as Somerset Leisure) is located at St Dunstan's School and has a fitness suite, sports hall, tennis courts as well as classes in things like Pilates, Spinning and Zumba.  If you sign up for a membership in January and quote 'Glastonburypeople' not only will 1610 pay the joining/induction fee of £22 for you but you can try out your first class for free. 

Avalon Leisure, based at Strode Swimming Pool in Street, which has recently invested £30,000 in a brand new Fitness Studio, has an offer running for new users that means that if you join between now and 31st January you will pay £20.12 and you won't then have to pay anything else until February.  Alongside the fitness studio and various classes including Zumba, Boxercise and Tai Chi, access to Strode pool and spa sauna is included with a Lifestyle membership.

The Train Station gym has a wide range of classes to suit all abilities including yoga, Pilates, circuit training and Wing Chun Kung Fu, and of course there is a well-equipped fitness suite.  Additionally Train Station also has a range of sports and nutritional supplements available to buy while for something different Tor Dance Group also offers 10 week Street Dancing workshops here on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, although this is very popular and I think there is currently a waiting list.

So by joining a gym and showing some commitment, recommended exercise targets are easily achievable, and it is surprising how quickly 30 minutes training can pass.  See you by the water cooler!

If you want a further incentive to get fit then check this initiative launched by the GB Rowing Team.