Starting new habits for a New Year

Well we may already be one month into the New Year, but I always feel that if you want to stick to that New Year’s resolution of getting fit and healthy, then February is really the time to commit yourself to it.

Going to the gym was a huge leap for me; I didn’t think I was someone who would enjoy doing exercise and getting sweaty. But I wanted to make a change and take control of my health and figured I would give it a try and I am glad I did because I have shocked myself. I actually enjoy going to the gym now, getting that bit of ‘me’ time, putting on my headphones with my favourite music and just moving- you can just check out of all the chaos for an hour or two. Sometimes it is a challenge to fit it into a busy week, but I know it pays off in the long run.

I took out my gym membership last year, and made a very good start at losing weight and getting myself fitter and stronger. I am currently 20 weeks pregnant and during these last few months I have not visited the gym as much as I used to, mostly down to the fact that I felt utterly exhausted from doing nothing, let alone finding the energy to go to the gym. Now I am into the more enjoyable 2nd trimester, and after talking with my gynaecologist, I feel motivated and prepared to get back to the gym, although going at a more relaxed pace.

If you are looking for a gym to join, here are two that have locations across the whole of the Netherlands.

Basic Fit, www.basic-fit.nl
Standard 1 year membership costs €215, or you can pay per month. You receive a gym pass that you can use to visit the gym as many times a week as you like, for as long as you like. And the pass can be shared with family members (although not to go to the gym at the same time). They have general gym equipment, exercise machines, weight training etc, and you can sign up for extras like group classes for €8 a month.

Fit for free, www.fitforfree.nl
They have different kinds of membership. 1 year off-peak hours costs €155, or 1 year unlimited costs €240. You can also add on group lessons for €6 a month. They have general gym equipment, exercise machines, weight training etc.

As well as these two, there are a large number of individual gyms and sport schools across the whole of the north of the Netherlands. To find more options closer to you search for ‘sportschool’ plus your location on google.

And if the gym isn’t appealing to you, why not go swimming or attend an aquafit group at your local pool. To find a swimming pool local to you search for ‘zwembad’ plus your location on google.