Being a keen runner and cyclist, sport and exercise is a huge part of Elyse's life. Having gained a great deal of knowledge on how to get keep individuals motivated and excited in physical activity through her degree, combined with the obvious push from sporting authorities to promote female well being through sport led to the creation of her 2016 challenge "TWIT" (This week I tried). The 52 week challenge aims to show women that you don’t have to enjoy running, cycling or a stuffy gym to keep fit. TWIT shows people that there are so many different types of activity that will allow you to keep fit, whilst being social and whilst having a good time.
We will be joining Elyse on her TWIT challenge, finding out what activities she's been up to and sharing ways in which you can also get involved.
If you'd like to see more about the challenge you can visit her website - TWITchallenge.co.uk
Susie
Susie liked to keep fit in her 20s, but after suffering from a whiplash injury and then motherhood coming along, she found herself like many other people - wanting to exercise but not knowing where to start. It wasn't until her daughter decided to take up Taekwondo, as she sat at the back watching like any dutiful parent, one week an adult joined the otherwise child filled class. It hadn't occurred to her that martial arts classes were open to all, so one day she decided to join in.
"I struggled and had the mickey taken, and still do but I have stuck with it and I'm studying for my green belt. I'm not the fastest, I'm not the most flexible but I'm there week in week out twice a week sweating and doing my best"
It has given her and her daughter something in common, other than shopping trips or watching TV, they now have something positive they do together. Susie has found a new confidence in herself and her abilities. "I can do whatever I set my mind to. I'm not that middle-aged invisible woman. I stand up straight, proud and tall".
Susie has now got the confidence to try other things, she is now training to be a Rugby coach, after sitting on the sidelines of her sons Rugby games.
Her aim is to get more girls participating in Rugby and she will be sharing with us her experiences.
