Work it

I know it's a Saturday & the likelihood that you're reading this with a slight hangover from Good Friday celebrations is pretty high..but if you're not & you're ready for a weekend workout, here's my way to a killer workout..

The first thing I do before working out is ensure that I'm hydrated (try drinking at least half a bottle of water about half an hour before working out - you don't want to feel sick or dehydrated because your workout won't be effective!) and also ensure you've eaten some good carbs (my PT always tells me slow release e.g. porridge or some pasta if it's an afternoon workout!)

So once you're fuelled, you're ready to go!

Number one rule before working out - STRETCH! If you don't stretch you could give yourself a serious injury & won't be able to perform to your full ability.

Once you've stretched now it's time to begin..

Cardio
Personally, I always enjoy starting with a cardio exercise - running is my forte. I've learnt, through different workouts & trainers, that HIIT (high intensity interval training) is the best way to perform a cardio workout. You will burn more calories doing 15 minutes of HIIT on the treadmill than a 40 minute consistent run - this is because you're body doesn't have time to rest in between the intervals and your heart rate is kept up high, meaning you're getting more oxygen around your body & it's working harder..this can happen up to an hour after you stop as well..

My preference to run is 15 minutes - 30 seconds at a steady pace (7.5km/h) then 45 seconds high intensity (I go from 13km/h-16km/h over a 15 minute period)

Each person will be individual based on your own body & your limits etc. So don't just follow that - use it as a basis and work out what's best for you.

A lot of people don't enjoy running, so opt for a similar workout on the rower - a great piece of equipment as it works all the muscles in your body! The cross trainer is also a popular cardio machine to use but I don't find it as easy to perform HIIT on, but it's all down to personal preference. 

Full Body - Weights & Resistance
One thing my PT always taught me was to not exclude body areas, for example don't do leg day, or arms etc - work your whole body out whatever exercise you are doing.

For a whole body workout including weights is a good way to ensure you're working all those muscles. Kettle bells are one of the most diverse pieces of equipment you can use! You can do so many things with them, from squats to swings.

In my routine I use them for goblet squats in reps of 15 and for 3 sets. 

Goblet squats - a simple squat, but you're holding a kettle bell to your chest as you squat, ensuring you're back is straight, shoulders are back and you're feet are hip width apart so you don't strain yourself. 

Lunges - another diverse exercise, you can do them static or walking. Add to your lunges by using a kettle bell (when static) holding it out in front of you as you go forward with each leg. If you're doing walking then have a dumbbell either side of you, again ensuring your back is straight with your shoulders back.

Abs
The area most people are concerned about - the six pack, the ab blast, looking 'ripped'. Again, as I was taught by the professional PT Tina that I have, you can't just focus on one area - you'll benefit more from doing a variety of workouts. For example, goblet squats will work your abs as much as they work your legs & arms.

For individual ab workouts try incorporating weights as well as just free exercises - medicine balls are a popular piece of equipment to use. You can perform russian twists, crunches, leg raises which will all work both your lower & upper abs.

My Routine & Top Tips
On a general trip to the gym (unless I'm recovering) I'll do an overall body workout. This includes:

15 minute HIIT treadmill workout at 7.5km/h - 16km/h

15 reps of bicep curls (6kg)
15 reps of goblet squats (12kg)
16 reps of static lunges (6kg weights in each hand)

Repeat this three times - taking a 1 minute break in between sets.

30 reps of Russian twists (6kg)
10 reps of Leg raises - hold the ball behind your head then bring it up to meet your knees crunching up through your upper abs (5kg)
20 reps of V-sit ups 
10 reps of sit ups with medicine ball then to russian twist (5kg)

Repeat this three times - taking a 1 minute break in between sets.

My Inspiration
Obviously today, everything is posted all over social media & as you're probably aware there's so many different people out there that promote exercise, healthy living, PT and eating styles. 

I stumble across people on Instagram especially from their workouts etc, and one person who I think is a fab one to follow & checkout is @clean_eating_alice on Instagram. She's a young personal trainer, who lost a hell of a lot of weight from doing the work that she promotes on her page, she has a book coming out on 'clean eating' and also posts about what the best things to eat are on her Instagram page.

One of her most recent videos inspired a new workout for me on your whole body, I thought I'd share it with you:

A video posted by Alice (@clean_eating_alice) on Mar 25, 2016 at 9:37am PDT

Another person you're bound to know about is Joe Wicks (aka - The Body Coach) I think he's amazing as he encourages people to workout and eat in such a healthy way instead of going on some ridiculous low calorie diet, cutting out carbs or a juice cleanse. 

He also posts great videos of not only his HIIT workouts, but also his cooking! I'd also definitely recommend his 'Lean in 15' cookbook! I know he's bring a new one out soon!

As for my personal inspiration it has to go to my amazing Personal Trainer from home, Tina. Without her help and her encouragement I wouldn't have achieved what I have now. Yes, from time to time I do have the bad day of eating & at the moment I'm not feeling as fab as usual after a binging weekend but from when I started with Tina, I've come a long way & I have her to thank for that.

My Progress June - August - March

I'm really not one to post photos all over social media as I feel myself it's sometimes intimidating to those who want to work on themselves & it makes people have expectations that aren't always achievebale depending on your lifestyle.

Saying that, I posted the last photo (black & white) on my social media earlier this month, as I was so proud of what I've achieved in the last few months.

In the first image I know I'm not fat at all, but for me it was getting fit & toned. To come to where I am now took hard work & determination & I probably would look even better but bear in mind over these periods of times I've had three holidays, Christmas and birthdays in between - you always need a break! But get back on it & feel great.

I'd love to be able to inspire someone to make that change & prove that you can achieve what you want, because I never thought I'd see abs & toned the way I do now. I feel great & enjoy what I'm doing!

If you have any questions for me, about working out, eating, or my blog drop me a message via my blog or DM on twitter @aprilalexandra1

Thanks for reading! X

Stay Strong This Spring!🌻🌸

So, as promised in my previous post I'm going to let you in on the 'secrets' to staying strong & positive this Spring, even though you're surrounded by temptations of boozy nights out, Sunday Roasts & endless amounts of Easter Eggs!

I know I said I'd write this post earlier in the week but it's been a crazy one..it was my Mum's birthday Wednesday (pampered her to perfection!) then I travelled back home on Thursday for the Easter hols! Now I'm going to let you in on a secret to my top tips to staying healthy & on track this Easter (trust me, there's no temptation worse than coming home from uni to full cupboards!!!)

Firstly, don't feel guilty about going out all weekend eating & drinking! It's Easter, it's a four day bank holiday weekend, enjoy yourselves! 

Next week get yourself back on track & here's how!

1. Pick a day, a good reason & a good routine!
Don't say you're going to start on Monday because it's after the weekend, because this weekend that won't work (you're not doing anything productive this Monday - bank holiday - be honest with yourself!) so pick a day, plan it properly & you'll feel 10 times better!

2. Formulate some sort of exercise regime into your week.
You don't have to overdo it - generally I'll only spend 45 minutes to an hour at the gym at a time. I get bored quite easily, so make sure you involve exercises that you enjoy but that will benefit you as well!

If you're heading to the gym incorporate some sort of cardio (treadmill, step machine, cross trainer, rower), and weights (bicep curls, bar bells, kettle bells) both are important if you're wanting results!

No problem if you're not a gym lover or gym membership owner! A brisk walk around the block..a few home workouts (easy stuff - abs, squats, press ups...) even if you decide to walk to work two or three days a week, get yourself moving & you'll feel more positive already! 

I find fresh air literally makes me feel fresh, rather than being cooped up inside your car, feel the Spring breeze & give yourself a glow on the go before you get to the office (or school/uni etc) and you'll look and feel fab!

3. Have your binge & be done!
Trust me, I am the world's worst for this! I have NO will power what-so-ever! Once I start, I have to finish. Tonight is a prime example: Friday night in with one of my best friends Kat..pack of cookies, bag of popcorn, crisps & doughnuts - all finished. But tomorrow's a new day & I'm ready to rock, starting with a morning run!

4. Look good, feel good!
No I don't mean how you physically look either, I mean fashion statement. I personally feel when I find good clothing (gym or casual) it makes me feel a hundred times better. You don't have to go all expensive either - I love Nike Pro training tights as a primary thing to work out in, but they are bloody expensive! 

Why not opt for the cheaper option? H&M do a great range of workout gear - I love their tops from here, they're loose fitting & perfect if you enjoy doing HIIT workouts like me! Another good place I've found for clothing is Primark Sportswear - it's affordable, looks good & actually feels really good to workout in! I was surprised by this, not going to lie! 

Once you've got the support, fashion wise, you'll be prepared mentally to smash that work out!

It's not even all about the exercise..there's so many new fashions coming about now we're in the new season..pastels, florals, sleeveless! So ditch your dull winter warmers, get some eBaying done! I'm a lover of eBay & you can make a mint on there! Use that money to get yourself a Spring Sensation which will catch all the eyes out there!

5. Stock up!
To resist the urge to indulge over and over, especially with that wretched hangover, stock your fridge with foods that will make you feel fab! 

Lots of greens, fish, meat (yes your Easter dinner will include all these - feel the love!) and carbs!! 

In my previous post I mentioned about all these lovely foods coming into season - new potatoes are in at the moment. Grab a pack from your local supermarket (Tesco do lovely ones for about £1.50 a bag i think!) marinate them in some olive oil, herbs & either cook them in the oven or boil them in the herbs, add lamb (in season at the moment) alongside your seasonal veg - cabbage, cauliflower, rhubarb, broccoli...the list is endless!

Ensure you've got lots of yummy fruit as well! Pomegranates are good at this time of year! Watermelon (summery feels again!) grapefruit & strawberries are delish to have for dessert topped with some summer fruits yoghurt!!

6. Summer goals, sad step, spring out!
We're almost in April now, which means we're a month away from May, so basically it's almost Summer! Yaaaaay!! Favourite time of year for most, but the dreaded 'bikini bod' season, pressure (more for gals) and that paranoia of weight gain!

No more!! Set yourself a realistic goal - TODAY! It doesn't have to be weight, looks, but how you feel! Your lifestyle, maybe it's drink eight glasses of water a day, or try a new workout, try new foods, build on your existing plans. 

Step out this season, grab yourself a new wardrobe, a new fridge, and feel fresh for Summer which is just around the corner! But remember, stay strong! Those Easter Eggs will torment you, get it over with - indulge, and ditch! You don't need all the crap! Enjoy your Easter and look ahead!

Tomorrow (I promise I actually mean that this time!) I'll be posting my favourite workouts if you want any ideas of what to include/try out this Spring to get you looking, but more importantly strong, stress free & fresh!

Thanks for reading! x x x 

Spring has Arrived!

Spring has finally sprung upon us and I couldn't be more excited! It's the time of year all the little lambs start jumping around the fields, days get longer, skies get clearer (or at least they're supposed to) and everyone gets rid of their SAD! (Seasonal affective disorder)

Today, marks the first day of Spring for this year! Nothing says hello Spring like the lovely sunshine the majority of the country has seen over the pat week or so! I love it when Spring finally comes around, it's a great time of year! Everyone starts to get a little happier as it's a little closer to Summer, days get longer AND warmer, so we don't all feel as sluggish & during spring is my birthdaaaaay!! What's more exciting?!?!

To kick off my fave season, I treated myself to a mop chop! (must needed - locks were too long!) I used to actually dread having my hair cut as I've alllllwaays wanted long hair, I even cried once when my hairdresser cut too much off! Embarrassing, I know! But this time, I definitely didn't cry & I'm definitely thankful for the inches off my hair.

According to a 'study' Spring naturally make us feel better and look after ourselves more without even trying..everything in this day and age is psychological or based on studies I swear! Even down to your Starbucks order, we apparently become more aware of being healthy & feeling good!

Here's a breakdown of why..

The Edge, Alderley Edge - Great for a Spring Walk!

So, those days get longer & nights get lighter. With more daytime hours, supposedly becomes more Sun which apparently makes us want to become more active & sociable. So it's time to ditch the Netflix & Chill and get out and about! Go for a brisk walk, have a picnic, do something cute with your friends! Another bonus..if you're not feeling a gym day, a walk in the sunshine (tanning as well) is a perfect way to burn off those Sunday Roast calories you just demolished today!

Tegg's Nose, Macclesfield - Great for Dog Walkers

I'm not the best at Maths..and I know this post is about Spring but now we're away from Winter hooray!! we're also closer than ever to Summer! The Holy Grail of seasons! Now is the time we psychologically prepare ourselves for the Summer season, getting into shape, going on shopping sprees like there's no tomorrow for that perfect beach babe look and of course booking hols & all types of Summer antics! 


As soon as Winter is out of the way, out go the dull, drab jumpers and cover ups in our fave high street store and in comes our sexy, strappy, summery Spring/Summer collections! I think this excites girls more than boys (for obvious reasons) but you can see my point why it makes us feel better! I personally much prefer shopping for a summery skirt - or a new bikini which I admit I did buy last week - over a pair of wooly socks and a jumper! 

Another perk of Spring, as we enter the new season loads more foods come 'into season'. I don't really know how this quite works myself, but my Mum always stocks the fridge with 'In season' foods and I tell you, my fridge (at home) looks beaut!! What can make you feel better than having some yummy foods, that make you feel good too! 

From the in season fruits that come out to your Spring potatoes (and yes, they DO make all the difference as my first year flat mates will tell you - I obsessed with Elfie potatoes) and without realising it, Spring has made you change your eating habits & got you well on track to your Summer bod!

I mustn't forget the most important part of Spring - your coffee fix! Or not?! With Spring comes a whole host of new/returning drinks options from your fave coffee shops! Starbucks is just one example, to get you in the Spring sensation mood why not try these?!

Cool Lime Refreser 

Trade in your winter warmer hot choccie for a Spring worthy Frappucino next time you visit Starbucks - it's 200 cals less than your hot chocolate, and much more satisfying & refreshing for this warm weather! If you're more of a tea drinker, go for the iced version! Still getting your caffeine fix, but just in a cooler way! Why not be completely crazy this Spring & try something NEW! Starbucks offer a 'refreshers' range of drinks during the Summer months (Spring counts as summery now!) and they sound deeeeelish! So get your Cool Lime Refresher next time you've got a coffee date! Filled with fruity refreshing goodness to make you feel better this Spring!




Let's not get too concerned about how much good food is out there because I tell you what I CANNOT wait for..EASTER!! This Friday is Good Friday & Lent will finally be over - six weeks I will have survived without chocolate, biscuits or sweets (yes, to all that didn't think I could do it - I have!! Well..nearly, but I will!) then following Good Friday, is of course Easter Sunday where we all pig out to the MAX with Easter Eggs and chocolate and just indulge like never before..I for one am SO excited and feel no shame!

Before Easter Sunday though, it's time for me to head home for three weeks for my Easter holidays, wooooo! Easter's usually the time most go away for a few days, so if you're off anywhere nice let me know!! I'm heading to Amsterdam for a few nights with the rents & my best friend Grace, before heading back to the dingly del for the owd 80's night! 

Then, it'll soon be my birthday - which is obviously mega exciting for me - but probs doesn't have much meaning to you! But don't worry, it does now!!! Because, after my birthday we're in May, so we're pretty much in Summer, which means it's the party season of the year & everything is just a million times better then! 

But for now, let's enjoy the Spring! The warmer weather, light nights, longer days, little lambs & of course mounds of Easter Eggs!!

Look out for some more Spring posts coming from me this week! Top 10 tips to spring you into shape this season, and style me up with some Spring ideas to inspire your wardrobe!

Thanks for reading! X X

#MondayMotivation

As cliché as the title of this post is, I think it's seriously something ALOT of people live by - especially on social media..Instagram, Twitter you know the drill - #MondayMotivation is tagged in just about everything!!

We'll all be the first to admit, Monday's aren't the best days of the week! After a brilliant weekend, you need something to get you back to your routine! Especially if you've had a bit of a 'cheat' weekend!

I for one, have definitely needed some motivation today! I had a great back end of the week, celebrating my uni results, going out, making some new friends and after going home for the weekend for my Auntie's 60th Birthday bash, I indulged waaaay too much! 

Rare fam get together! Happy 60th Auntie Anne!

The worst thing for me is having a really good week, hitting the gym, eating all healthy then BOOM! Back home for two days and I don't know about you, but I literally lose control! I thought I'd go for the "healthy" option at the Indian restaurant, which is all well and good until four slices of birthday cake laterrrr...erm, not okay!!

So if you've indulged this weekend, or even just had a brilliant weekend (or reading week, I know quite a few of my uni friends have had a chilled week doing nothing) but lack some motivation, here's my top tips to getting back on it this week! 

Just remember, the start of the week is always a great excuse to start afresh. Don't think about the weekend, think of the next 7 days and how you're going to make yourself feel on top of the world again! (so you can enjoy the upcoming weekend, whatever you're doing!)

Firstly, don't dwell on the weekend & all it's crappy or happy traits - this will only make you feel worse. Be positive and tell yourself that you're on a mission! 

Trust me, I know Monday's are crap! You wake up with that awful Monday morning feeling (especially with a 9am lecture you have to contemplate going to) but when you wake up, smile! It's a new day, new week, new start - even if you've gotta fake it, I promise it will make you feel more positive already!

Start the day (and week) correctly. Give yourself a kick-start with a nutritional breakfast which will leave you feeling satisfied! (no further indulging allowed)

Set yourself goals for the week, whether it's to get to the gym a certain amount of times, get your household jobs done or a clear out (I got on my eBay mission today!) set yourself something, then you'll have something to strive for instead of slumping on the sofa!

Make plans! It's always good to have something to look forward to, especially if you've got a tough week ahead (or just a general week that you don't particularly want to take part in) but whether it's a few drinks with friends, a trip out or just a browse out in town give yourself an incentive to motivate your Monday!

My newest tick off my list! Coat Hanger!

I'm a really sucker when it comes to making lists and it really motivates me to get things done! (my new coat hanger is my latest achievement on the list! V proud!) So if you're a bit of a saddo like me, make yourself a to do list and trust me, the sense of achievement you feel after ticking everything off is just something else! *currently smiling to myself as I'm typing because maybe that's just me..saddo* 

But seriously, my lovely readers, make a change this week & even something as small as making a list to do something, or whatever floats your boat it'll get you through that awful first day of the week and then you're just 24 hours closer to Friday which means...THE WEEKEND! The holy grail! The time of your life! What you've been waiting for!

Sooooo, don't feel glum after the weekend (whether it's food & fitness guilt or a come down from a fab weekend) because there's no need to! Never regret anything you do, it made you happy at the time! Trust me - that cake made me REALLY happy! (easily pleased!) Just make yourself happy now & think of Monday as your friend! 

You've got a great week ahead, so enjoy it! 

Apparently it's National Margarita Day as well, according to Twitter..just saying!

P.S.
Don't forget, if you're taking part in Lent just think of it as another day to count down till you can indulge on your guilty please - surely that's enough to get you through the day!

Thanks for reading! X

Top Drink Spots in Notts

In my last post I mentioned I'm going to be having a 'clean Feb'. (So far so good btw!) However, for those who aren't I thought I'd throw together a post about some fab bars you must visit in Notts!

Personally, I'd take going out for casual drinks with friends over a nightclub any-day and I'm a total sucker for a good cocktail bar! 

During my time in Nottingham at uni, I've decided it's one of the best places for cocktail bars. It's not a place with your average pretentious bars you see all the time, but  intricate, cosy and v quirky hidden city gems!

It's hard for me to pick my fave, but another thing I love about the majority of cocktail bars in here is their affordable prices (during happy hour) but for a cocktail night out, getting drinks in before 10pm isn't always a prob.

1. Coco Tang
One of the first cocktail bars I visited in Nottingham was Coco Tang. When I was in my first year the bar was a really popular student night for Trent on a Wednesday evening.

My friends & I love visiting Coco because it's one of the few places you can dress up when you go out, a real classy night for a classy lady (or gent).

Visiting Coco with my Dad!

At first it's difficult to find as it's door is literally only shown with a red lantern near Jamie Oliver's restaurant. It definitely has an eclcetic feel about it; an underground bar, featuring an adorable lounge room filled with comfy sofas & pink fairy lights. 

It's free entry, and happy hour is before 10pm every night except student nights (Monday for Uni of Notts & Wednesday for Trent). Drinks in Coco are such a creative blend & come co-ordinated with sweets for the majority of them! Definitely a perk!

Jade Trader

My top Coco cocktails:
- Breakfast at Tiffany's (Martini style cocktail with vodka, passionfruit, topped with a shot of prosecco)
- Jade Trader (perf if you like something fresh! The hint of kiwi gives the vodka a refreshing kick - perfect if you've got holiday blues & want to feel relaxed!)
- Refresher (sweet tooth? This will defo tickle your tastebuds! Best part - you get a mini refresher with it too!!)
- Lemon Dragon (Basically lemon meringue pie in drink form! So if you missed dessert, don't worry here's a cheaper, funner version!)








They do a range of classics as well, of course! Daiquiri's, martini's, even mocktails for the drivers (or non-drinkers).

2. Pepper Rocks

I recently visited this cocktail bar - situated across from Coco Tang, so why not visit them both at the same time?!

Pepper Rocks is another affordable bar - £4 for cocktails before 10pm! They have a smaller range of cocktails than Coco but they can tailor it to pretty much anything you like!

With a retro feel it's perfect for after dinner cocktails, pre night out or a classy night with the girls! Dress up or dress down, suitable for any style! It has a good range of music from 80's to old school, noughties and current tracks as well!

Cosmo (front) & English Garden

Fave's from here:
- Classic Cosmo (Can never go wrong with a classic - served in a martini glass, vodka, cointreau, lime and cranberry!)
- English Garden (Gin lovers this is one to try! A very refreshing cocktail: Gin & elderflower - mix it up with Vodka if you don't like gin - that's what I did!)




One thing I love about this bar is it's so cosy & homely, best part - they serve food! Crepes and Hot Dogs are the speciality here to go with your cocktail, so give it a go! 

3. Pitcher & Piano

Now this bar is absolutely incredible!! A converted church, it has such a rustic feel to it & the setting inside is even more exciting than the outside! It's kept all the intricate, classic details of a Church, just modernised into a bar - it also includes an outside terraced bar for those summery evenings!

P&P is definitely one to go to when the 'rents are visiting as it's one of the more expensive bars! Nevertheless, if you want to treat yourself (or it's payday!) you must try here!

They have a range of drinks from your classic wines, beers and spirits then their cocktails! Something for everyone, so don't be shy!

My faves:
- Again, always a classic with the Cosmopolitan is a good choice!
- 'Finish in The Pink' - a mix of rosé win, strawberry syrup and vodka topped with soda.
- Elderflower Daiquiri - if you're a white rum lover this is perfect for you; Bacardi Rum, Elderflower and Lime Juice - refreshing & tickles your tastebuds!

4. Tilt

The most recent bar I've visited & loved it! Me & a friend went here mid-week, it's got such a chilled atmosphere, live music & it's all waitered table service - so if you're feeling a little classy head into Lace Market for a drink here!

It is on the more expensive side but definitely worth it! I had a lovely Kiwi Martini, which  was so refreshing & the list of cocktails is endless, from your classics; cosmo, daiquiri's and martinis to their specialities (I'll let you discover those yourself!)

5. Bunk

In the heart of Lace Market Bunk is another hidden gem in Notts. If you're looking for something cosy but different here's the perfect place! 

Bunk does a bit of everything, cocktails, 'bunk dogs' wings, candy pots, Ben & Jerry's and the staff are lovely! 

One of my faves from here was the Elderflower Martini - I'm usually a vodka girl, but the bartender convinced me to try a Dry Martini cocktail and it was deeeeelish! Perfect for a group night out, or a romantic eve with your loved one!

6. Boilermaker

Firstly, do not judge a book by it's cover (especially in this situation!)

In my opinion, it's one of THE best cocktail bars in Notts. It's definitely the hidden treasure of the city, deceiving but an incredible bar!


Again, it's a waitered-table service cocktail bar with personalised cocktails to Notts. Incorporating the famous Robin Hood with alcohol - what more could you ask for?! 




Of course, they serve the classics but go for something a bit different like the "Cereal Killa'h"  - and YES, it is as cool as it sounds! Served in a cereal box, a rum based drink infused with cereal flavours; crunchy nut cornflake infused rum, honey and almond milk!


It's not the only unique drink here, they have so many different varities of showstoppers and the presentation is definitely a 10/10!






My list of places still to visit..

- Revolucion de Cuba; a new bar just opened located by the Theatre Royal, I've heard great things about this bar, quirky, great atmosphere & they do food! Bit pricey, but worth it by the looks of things!
- Das Kino; a Cinema-themed bar with ping-pong tables I've heard?! One of my friends recently started working there...mates rates??
- Pit & Pendulum; a bit of a gothic bar, but it's secret bookcase door makes it very intriguing and their offers tempt me even more - 2 cocktails for £6.95! Show me the bar!


These are just a few of the cocktail bars in Nottingham, I've still got another year before graduating so hopefully I'll have a few more to tell you about soon! 

As a student I think the ones I've mentioned are the most popular, so if you're planning a classy night out or just a few cheeky cocktails with friends, give one (or a few) of them a try! I promise you won't be disappointed!


Thanks for reading! X

Reflections

31st January has fast approached us & already we've already had a month of 2016! If you've been doing dry Jan & made it, congrats! You've reached the summit, reward yourself with a large vino!

January has been a crazy month for me! Everyone says 'January Blues' is the start of a New Year, alongside all the 'New Year, New Me' malarky! Honestly, January has been one of the best months I've had!

Reflecting on the last month and last year it's been a whirlwind! 2015 was a good year to me, I did a hell of a lot and made some brilliant memories, friends and experiences from beginning to end. 

Of course it wasn't all good; life is a rollercoaster (as cliché as that sounds) and yes I was hurt, heartbroken, had fall outs and experienced tough times personally but I also had one of the best years. Wonderful experiences at Sky Sports, travelling to amazing parts of the world, spending my Summer with my best friends and family before returning to Uni and really starting life (as second year actually counts!!)

So here we are, 2016. January has been crazy. Bouncing back is something I was taught to do from a very young age, on the back end of 2015 I had to pick myself up, bounce back and get life back in order! STRESS! I can't do that at the best of times!

Anyways, I spent New Year away from home, somewhere different, with different people and had the best New Year to be honest! A week later, I was back in the land of Notts! Reunited with my uni gals, course mates and inevitably the work I should have really done over Christmas!

Everything in life happens for a reason & it's just as well I didn't do my work because it turned out I ended up interviewing the ex-captain of Nottingham Forest from during the Cloughie days, John McGovern for my Uni assessment, he also managed to get me an Academy player to interview, so procrastinating isn't always a bad thing! Bear that in mind!

I don't really believe in making shoddy New Year resolutions (mainly because I NEVER stick to them!!!) but also, why should a New Year encourage you to 'change your life' as dramatic as it sounds!

However, I am gonna go all cliché and have a 'clean' Feb (or try to!) After all it is the shortest month so I'm sure I won't miss my binge biscuits! I'm still gonna reward myself with a cheeky cocktail at the end of a hard working week though! 

But my future reflections:

• Get fit & feel fab 
• Teach myself to cook like Jamie Oliver (if that's possible as a student)
• Prioritise life! (I'm very organised on paper - but mentally prioritising isn't my forte)
• Look to the future (seriously..getting closer to my final year!!)

Looking to the future is a very pressuring thing we have to do these days, Sixth Form was the worst at forcing us to choose what path we wanted to take in life! Managed to do that - ticked off the bucket list - now i'm almost in my final year and need to think about getting a job...scary...moving on swiftly!!

There's so many exciting things in the pipe line at the moment, not just for me but everyone! We've had a lot of sad losses in the fame world this last month; David Bowie, Alan Rickman & Sir Terry Wogan. I saw a quote from Terry Wogan posted online today which really hit me & I hope it's inspiring to you as well...

"Take it easy, life's short enough as it is without rushing it" 

- Sir Terry Wogan

On that note I'm off for my beauty sleep, but before I love you and leave you! I'm a strong believer that everything you do in life, you should do at the best of your ability. Do what's right for you and don't have any regrets. Sure, there's things I wish I could change but learn to appreciate what's been, and learn from it. 

If you've had a crap month, move on. Make Feb a better month (second the best & all that!).

Thanks for reading! 

X

Summer Vibes

So that time of year has come round again..summer! The time we all LOVE but stress about that 'perfect summer body'. Well no more! Everyone seems to think that the way to get their 'bikini bod' is crash dieting and intense gym training, you're wrong! I'm no expert in the field of fitness, but I've got plenty of experience after spending a year at University, trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle whilst under the influence of alcohol half the year, eating cheesy garlic bread religiously after a night out - definitely NOT the way to that summer bod! 

Now though, with my holiday's all booked I'm ready to sort myself out & I've put this post together to help you too! 

So many people are advertising personal training, or health kick courses guaranteeing they're going to help you in 'less than 6 weeks'. But you want to see results straight away right? I can show you how!

An average person, will eat crips, chocolate, smother their bread in butter and eat fried foods - don't get me wrong they're all my guilty pleasures (especially the butter!!) but everything is good for you in moderation. 

In the last week I decided that I would try out a strict 'diet plan' to get my 'bikini bod' back in shape for August! And I've seen results within a week! Dropping four pounds in just 8 days!! Here is how I did it..

Determination, will power & EATING.

1. The last thing you should be doing to lose weight is to stop eating, and cut out important food types such as carbs. Everyone says that to lose weight cut out your carbs and you'll see a difference straight away - yes that's true, you see a difference but then the next crumb of bread you eat you put 3 pounds back on because you're body's not used to the intake anymore. So stop cutting foods out and start eating them!

2. Determination, set yourself a realistic goal of what you want to achieve. Whether that be a pound a week, two pounds etc. or even just fitting in those gorgeous shorts that you wore all summer last year. If you set yourself something to achieve, there's your motivation. There's nothing worse than doing hard work and not seeing results because you never had a goal in sight. 

3. Will power - the hardest thing to do, believe me! In the food plan I'll guide you with you'll think I'm crazy, no chocolate (or a treat once a week) but have will power and resist what your thoughts are telling you!

Okay! Step one. 

Take a photo of yourself, today, tomorrow, whenever you're going to start your regime. Save it, don't look at it for a week. Weigh yourself when you take this photo - but don't weigh yourself every day, do it once a week because weight fluctuates for one reason or another on a daily basis. So choose a day, take a photo & weigh yourself each week & you'll see results!

Step two - Food.

The best thing to do when you want to lose weight or to shape up is to write down your meal plans (and stick to them!) because then you know exactly what you're eating!

Choose foods that are going to fill you up for longer, that way you won't be tempted to have a packet of crips 10 minutes after eating your breakfast! No extra fat content going on you! 

Ensure that you have breakfast - EVERYDAY! People seem to think skipping meals is the best way to lose weight, it's not. If anything you will put on weight because you'll overeat at your next meal. 

Portion sizes - follow my simple steps i'll advise you on below, and make sure you're not eating for two like I started doing at Uni! 

Choosing the healthy option can be just as enjoyable as the full fat version, but it's all about making the right choices. 

(See my food plan below)

Step Three - Hunger. 

Sometimes through the day, in between meals you may feel peckish and want a snack. Before you do, think to yourself are you really hungry? Sometimes you could just be thirsty, so drink half a bottle of water and see how you feel after that. If you're still hungry, have an apple, or some type of berries - fruit is so good for you, and the amount of natural sugars and water that's in fruit keeps you feeling fuller for longer and also better about yourself! 

So, identify if you are hungry & if you are, choose the right options! 

Many people eat their food and still feel hungry, I know I'm one of those people for definite! So, next time you sit down for dinner; slow down, stop eating half way through, have a few sips of water and assess how hungry you are. If you're still hungry go ahead and eat some more, but take you're time with eating instead of your body manipulating you into thinking you need more food than you can handle!

Beat hunger - I get hungry when I'm bored, so next time you're hungry find an activity to do whether that's a walk, bit of reading, housework or even some chewing gum whilst you're working at the office. It helps! 

Don't go hungry. The mistake everyone makes is holding out for meal times - waiting to feel hungry - no. When you've made your food plan for the week set yourself times to eat and stick to those & you'll keep a consistent satisfaction throughout the day, which will stop you snacking and keep off those extra pounds! 

Planning your meals

The best thing you can do when you are planning your meals in to incorporate all different meal options. The worst thing is getting bored and then slobbing out over a full dairy milk bar.

The best foods to essentially incorporate into your diet are things that will keep you fuller for longer, here are some really good examples:

All bran, lean back bacon, beef mince/steaks, chicken, cod, cottage cheese, couscous, duck, eggs (one of the best things for breakfast!), gammon, haddock, ham, sugar free jelly (for your treat days), prawns, lamp, mackerel, skimmed milk, mussels, pasta, pork, potato, rice crispies, salmon, tuna, turkey.

They're just the basis of what to incorporate in each of your meals in a day. Obviously your fruit and veg is the best option for any meal, so incorporate as much of those as you can into every meal & you'll be right on your way to getting your goal achieved!

Here's a plan of what I've had in the past week for my meals!

Breakfast

1 Wholemeal slice of bread, toasted, with a poached egg & three table spoons of beans. Now that doesn't sound a lot but try that for your next breakfast and see how full you are! 

Porridge is a filling food, have 40g of porridge oats, with skimmed milk & add your own favourite fruits & you'll be full until your lunch! 

For a quick breakie, have two weetabix with skimmed milk & some fruit! 



Here are two of my favourites! (Above) - Beans on toast with grilled mushrooms & onion. (Right) - Spinach (a great filler) with grilled mushrooms, tomatoes and a poached egg!


Remember! Anything can be good or bad for you, it all depends on how you choose to cook it. So, no butter on your toast or bread and poach your eggs instead of frying them! 





Lunch

Tuna & Cucumber sandwich: 
2 slices of wholemeal bread, spread low fat soft cheese on each side (instead of butter) chop up some cucumber and place about 3 or 4 slices on each side of bread. Add half a tin of tuna (in brine or fresh water) and you're good to go! Add some fruit to your lunch & you'll stay satisfied till dinner!



Soup, one of my favourites!
Waitrose do a great range of soups, the best you can pick are the ones in the big cartons - not tinned! My favourite is pea & ham from Waitrose, but anything with low fat content (from there) or making your own will be good for you. If you go for one bought from a shop, heat up half of it with a small brown roll - you'll be full all day! 






Veggie? No problem! Get a tortilla wrap, spread it with some low fat soft cheese, get some sliced tomatoes & asparagus with some small cucumber chunks & some onion (mix the tomato, cucumber and onion together) then put together in a wrap and some foil. Don't forget your fruit! 

Dinner

If you like your fish, try Salmon or Haddock. Place on a baking tray lightly wrapped in foil on 180 degrees for about 20 minutes. Whilst that's cooking, choose either brown rice (half a pack of wholemeal Tilda is a good choice) or a handful of pasta, boil this. Whilst you're waiting, chop up courgette, broccoli, asparagus, onion (any veggies that you love to be honest!) place them in a pan to boil, then add Passata sauce to them (a lovely, low fat tomato based sauce) add some pepper & a pinch of salt to flavour. Then serve it up! 




Turkey stir fry! Turkey keeps you fuller for longer, and so does all your veg! I prefer to grill my turkey in the oven for 20 minutes rather than fry it! So place on a tray, wrapped in foil in the oven for 20 minutes. Whilst that's cooking, get your stir fry veg & noodles going then add it all together, spice it up & add a light sauce. 







Spag Bol is a winner for dinner! It keeps you so full and it's so good for you! If you cook it correctly! Ensure you get lean mince (400g), chop all your veggies up (onion, mushrooms, carrot etc) a tin of chopped tomatoes (400g). Everyone knows how to make a spag bol, just make it the healthy way! Those amounts are guidelines for a serving of 4.


Snacks

Hopefully, following those food guidelines you won't need to snack. But IF you do! Choose the right options; fruit (mixed berries & watermelon are best) or apples & bananas. Incorporate some low fat yoghurt if that sounds boring on it's own! 

A small thing you can do to help yourself as well, change from semi-skimmed or full fat milk to skimmed milk. It keeps you fuller for longer & has less fat in it than the other two, a really good idea for you if you're a tea or coffee lover like me! You might think you won't like skimmed milk but you will be surprised! If you're a sugar lover, cut it out or at least cut it down in your tea - it's unnecessary & could make a big difference to your waistline! 

If your mind's slightly boggled after reading that, drop me a message if you'd like any more details or even a guideline to planning your own meals and health kick plan! I'm more than happy to set you one up with all your favourite things to get you on your way!

Contact: either via Facebook or Twitter, or email me: aprilaslattery@yahoo.co.uk

Good Luck!

April X