Stiffness, Footwear, Strength and Hunted

"Is it ok to feel stiff the next day after class?"

A lady asked me this today, and I couldn’t say “Absolutely!” fast enough.

That post-class stiffness? It’s a sign your body is waking up, responding, and getting stronger. You might even feel a bit achy two days after—totally normal, especially when you're trying something new. It’s your muscles saying, “We’re working!”

But please remember:

• A little soreness = progress

• Lingering pain for a week or feeling worse over time = not right. That’s when you need to reassess and adapt.

To anyone just starting out or returning to movement—please don’t be discouraged by those first aches. The first time is always the hardest, but it’s also the beginning of something brilliant.

Keep showing up. Your body is listening.

Current Footwear

Today someone asked if my trainers were those barefoot-type shoes because they looked so comfy. The answer? Yes! I was wearing my Merrells—light, flexible, and designed to let your feet move naturally.

For me, a wide toe box is non-negotiable. If shoes squeeze my toes, I get Morton’s Neuroma—an aggravated nerve that’s as painful as it sounds. Shoe shopping used to be a nightmare, but I’ve finally found brands that understand feet aren’t meant to be squashed.

Apart from that, I mainly wear shoes that are minimalist, but at other times footwear with more support. It all depends on what I'm doing and for how long.

My current shoe collection:

• Altra Lone Peak – great padding + zero drop (heel and toe level)

• Merrell Vapor Glove Trail – super flexible sole

• Innov8 Bare-FX – low profile, no fuss

• Xero Boots – roomy toe box for going out and about

• Grisport Lady Fit – walking boots that work

Finding the right shoes isn’t just about comfort—it’s about foot health, balance, and freedom. What brands do you wear, and why?

Strength Changes Everything

“My golf’s improved!”

“Getting into the car isn’t hard anymore!”

Just two of the brilliant comments shared at tonight’s Strong 4 Life session.

Strength changes everything—not just your muscles, but your mobility, confidence, and ease in everyday life.

Being strong doesn’t mean bulky. It means being able to do what you love—whether that’s swinging a golf club, lifting your grandkids, or simply getting up from the floor—with less effort and more joy.

Two strength sessions a week are recommended. That could be yoga, pilates, resistance bands, weights, or even carrying heavy loads as part of daily life.

Walking is wonderful—but unless you’re using poles, it mainly works your lower body.

So ask yourself: Are you strong all over? Do you need to do more?

Strength exercises are included in all my sessions—so whether you join a class or book a one-to-one, you’ll be building strength that supports your life. Take a look at the timetable or drop me a message to find your fit.

I'll Track You Down

Earlier this week, one of my lovely online class participants shared something that made me smile: she said the sessions have really helped her balance and breath—and that if she ever stopped, I was to nag her to get started again!

Honestly, comments like this mean the world. Movement is medicine, and it’s incredible to hear how these classes are making a difference.

So if you feel the same, let me know! And if you ever disappear from class… I will track you down and gently (but firmly!) remind you to come back. That sounds a bit scary, but you know what I mean.