I don’t think I’m being too boastful if I say I’ve always been ‘OK’ at whatever sport I’ve competed. This though was more down to my fitness level supplementing my limited technical skill. Now, that’s one thing I am happy to brag about.

For a s long as I can remember, being ‘fit’ has been possibly my top priority in life. I’ve always taken the view that I’m a runner, not a fighter! If someone wants to give me a doing, they’ll have to catch me first.

I remember stepping off a train in Glasgow in the early ’80s. I was wearing gear most associated with the Rockabilly / Ted revival of the time. I was ‘greeted’ by a group of punks. Punks and Teds didn’t get along, it’s fair to say, and though I’d say I stood on the periphery of both groups, those guys weren’t really in the mood for general discussion.

They ran at me. But I knew they had no chance. I was cocky and confident enough to gesticulate a parting message as I disappeared up Buchanan Street, into the gloomy, autumn night.

Anyway, I digress.

Even now, at my ripe old age, I still work out to some degree every day. On top of regular pickleball sessions /matches. That said, since my cardiac arrest three years ago, I promised my family I wouldn’t push myself too hard.

And that means I now have a more regular, but moderated fitness regime.

For those wishing to embark on that journey, those determined to get off the sofa and feel better about themselves … what’s stopping you? You don’t need to set any athletic records. You don’t need to look good.

Start slow. Build up pace and or stamina with incremental weekly targets. The beauty about keeping yourself fit is you’re not competing against anyone. Don’t be too hard on yourself. If you don’t see continuous improvement, don’t sweat. Well – maybe sweat a little bit more … but you know what I’m saying.😉

One you start, give it a week or so. Push through the discomfort you are likely to feel. But I guarantee, stick with it, and you will notice a difference to your weight / stamina / general fitness very quickly.

And when you start to see that improvement, your motivation levels will rise. You’ll be hooked!

‘Fitness’ doesn’t come easy. It needs a bit of encouragement. It likes routine.

Build it, and it will come.

I promise.