It was not without a certain amount of empathy that I read

Sally's article on going to gyms (nor a certain amount of amusement at how our

imaging system managed to cut off the top of the head and thus the brain of da Vinci's

representation of the ideal proportions of a man), so I thought this was an

ideal time to review what's in the local area. 

The award winning Fareham Leisure Centre, Park

Lane, is certainly the largest facility in our

area but some people find its gym equipment slightly restricting - for example

teenagers aren't allowed to use the free weights (for well intended reasons!).  Other people who are more used to private

gyms might find the equipment isn't as state of the art or of a top-end

spec.  But for most of us, Sal and I

included I suspect, it's ideal, great value for money and the instructors are

excellent.

If you don't know that there is a Curves in Fareham

then you have been walking around with your eyes closed.  For much of the summer their gazebo is parked

in the centre of town, advertising their offers and location - above the One

Five Seven mensware shop in West Street.  Curves is a franchise and Fareham's

is owned by a lovely Scottish lady called Yvonne.  Along with her fully trained staff Yvonne

will reassure you and help you achieve what you need to.  It is a weightloss centre and so provide

nutritional advice along with your workout - but no men I'm afraid.  It's a women-only facility.

There is a lot of misunderstanding when it comes to

yoga.  Some people imagine it will be too

sedentary for them, others imagine they'll spend half an hour trying to wrap

their legs behind their head. 

FarehamPeople got in touch with Karen Percival, Director of yoga/Birch Tree

Yoga in Wickham in an attempt to dispel the myths.  Here's what Karen had to say:

"Beginners are often nervous about joining a yoga class, having

pre-conceived ideas of aging hippies chanting whilst sitting crossed legged; old

ladies passing wind whilst in weird positions! 

But Yoga has gone mainstream and everyone's at it .... Andy Murray,

Tiger Woods, Madonna, Sting, David Beckham"

There are many different styles of Yoga... Iyengar, Bikram,

Dru, Ashtanga, Kundalini and Vinyasa - but the most common is Hatha Yoga.  Hatha Yoga, which I teach, is made up of 3

main components... ASANA (the poses) PRANAYAMA (Breathing control) and Relaxation/ MEDITATION.  During a class, which is usually 60-90 mins long, you

should experience all 3 aspects.

Often people come initially to improve their flexibility but

you will also improve other components of fitness such as strength, balance and

co-ordination. Other people take up yoga to reduce stress and work on the

spiritual side of this ancient science... but whatever you are seeking, Yoga

can help.

As with anything new, do your research, find a teacher/class

that you think you'll like and give it a go! 

Have an open mind and, if you can bear it, do at least 3 sessions so you

can really judge it."

Sage advice from Karen at Birch Tree Yoga!

The Swing Dance Company, who work alongside www.jivecourses.co.uk, do what it says on the tin -  they

teach the art of swing dancing to all age groups all over the area, including

several Fareham venues.  They're currently

offering a free trial class - and they even know ways to help you find a dance

partner if you don't already have one. 

Dancing, like walking, is an excellent way to maintain a more active

lifestyle and these sessions promise fun with the package too.

Fareham's Extrafit provides both

personal training and corporate fitness. 

For those of you who want and can afford the one-to-one experience,

checking these guys out is a must.

Thanks to Local Lou for letting us know about LA Fitness in her comment here.  If you know of any others or any discounts, special offers

etc. please let us know!