Personal trainer Emma has been keeping our minds and bodies in tip-top shape during lockdown, offering high intensity (HIIT) workouts and classes via Zoom for all Broadsiders. And whilst gyms remain closed until mid April at the earliest, there’s never been a better time to log in and work out. Not sure what HIIT’s all about or whether it’s for you? Read on! We had a recent chat with Emma about lockdown, fundraising, pancakes and the importance of making time for yourself.
Hi Emma, tell us a bit about you…
I’m based in Wolverhampton and work as a Biomedical Scientist by day. I pursued my Personal Training career almost a year ago but health and fitness has always been a passion of mine. My services include tailored 1-1 PT, bespoke training programmes, nutrition guidance and weekly check-ins with my clients.
Why is HIIT so good for us?
HIIT is an intense workout that can be done in a short amount of time – which suits many people fitting a workout into their busy lives, whether that be during a lunch break or a quick blast before you wind down for the day.
HIIT is amazing for cardiovascular health but also the most effective fat burning method. This form of exercise also continues to burn calories even after hours of completing the workout.
You offer FREE virtual HIIT classes to Broadside residents. Can you tell us what we can expect from each one? What can people hope to get out of them?
You’ll come out of my class feeling the endorphins pumping! Each class has two circuits and a quick ab blast at the end. Each circuit normally has five exercises which consist 40-45 seconds of work and 15-20 seconds of rest between each one. Most HIIT workouts will involve all of the muscle groups, however we also do combat as a mid-week circuit to take out any stress from work into our punches and kicks. You will feel stronger and fitter after each session, and I’ll always push you to do one more repetition than you did the previous week.
What would you say to someone who’s never tried HIIT before and is a bit anxious about doing it?
The beauty of virtual classes is that this is in the comfort of your own living room. In every class I will provide alternatives to most exercises to ensure everyone is able to do these exercises safely and effectively. It’s sometimes better to turn your camera on as I will be able to feedback on your technique however this isn’t mandatory. Most importantly, just go at your own pace and have fun!
How are you finding running classes for Broadsiders so far?
I love seeing people getting together and getting down to business to become fitter and stronger. I would love to have more residents get involved to build a community of individuals with similar goals that can help motivate each other.
What’s your favourite workout sequence?
I love a burpee in all of its forms and variations! It’s an amazing, all-round body exercise and you will physically feel the difference over time as you do them and get stronger. I also like teaching combat as I love seeing you all kicking some butts with energy and attitude.
Do you listen to or play any specific music when you work out?
I often play Dance, Drum & Bass and I like to throw some classic Ministry of Sound tunes in there too!
Do you have any healthy (and tasty) recipes you can share?
I have such a sweet tooth, so I love making these protein pancakes for either breakfast or a snack…
Blend together and cook with coconut oil at low/medium heat. Flip when you see bubbles appear.
COVID-19 had an initially devastating effect on local businesses. It’s now inspiring to see so many of them adapting to the changes. Can you tell us a bit about how COVID has affected you and how you’ve adapted what you do in line with the current restrictions?
Since COVID hit, I’ve not been able to offer my services in gyms. To keep busy and support key workers, my partner and I live-streamed 24 hours of Friends whilst doing 2800 burpees, all while dressed as a Bunny and Spudnik (diehard Friends fans will know what I’m talking about!) in 24-degree heat! We managed to raised £875 for NHS Charities.
We also raised £180 by conducting a week of free classes via Work Out to Help Out – in aid of Mind charity for mental health.
Like most people and businesses, we’d had to go digital to continue to offer our services, which has meant a few technical difficulties along the way! I’ve invested in professional lighting equipment, audio and cameras, to really make it easy and clear for people to follow along during PT sessions and classes.
What’s next for your business?
I’m currently in the process of making a programme to really help people transform their bodies this Summer. The programme will consist of a bespoke training plan, classes and a nutrition programme that won’t feel like you’re on a strict diet.
I’m hoping to set some challenges with prizes for the best transformations, so watch this space.
Now more than ever, we all need to be prioritising and looking after our mental wellbeing. What are your top tips for keeping our mental health in good shape?
Take time and do something for yourself. We live such busy lives and we forget that we need self-care. Have a pamper day, cook yourself a delicious meal, exercise, learn a new skill. I personally love going for walks and hikes, taking in deep breaths of fresh air and getting some headspace.
I highly recommend doing mindfulness meditation too, bringing your own attention to the present, non-judgmentally. This practice helps to you focus, feel calmer and understand and respond better to how you really feel.
If you want to give HIIT a try then join Emma’s FREE virtual classes now by emailing hello@broadsidemcr.com. Suitable for all abilities, the classes will be live every Wednesday evening during March at 7:00pm.
Not sure if HIIT’s for you? Email us and we’ll send you recordings of the classes to try in your own time.
Find out more about Emma over on Instagram.