Hmm, I can hear people groaning down the ether already, but it is so true…

We all know how easy it is at this time of year to grab the coffee or the chocolate when we feel a bit stressed or apathetic about work, but we know equally how it doesn’t work.

I am no fitness fanatic, but I know when I feel bogged down with tasks I get nowhere by hopping from one to the other and doing nothing properly. It takes a bit of time, but I get up, sling on some joggers and trainers and go for a run. Don’t get me wrong, I am not the type who is seen sprinting round town, all sparkly and looking like of those perfect family members from a 1970’s cornflakes ad. Far from it! I am the one jogging at a sedate pace for 2 or 3 miles, barely managing to smile at passing pensioners – and yes, sometimes I feel truly ghastly in the process, but I always feel great afterwards and far more able to concentrate on one thing at a time.

I don’t think it matters what sort of exercise you do, as long as you get the old heart pumping and get out of breath, but for me running is ideal – it is free, I don’t have to drive anywhere or buy flashy gear to do it and I don’t need to wait for a friend to participate.

When I started running I was sooo unfit, I drove to a town where I knew nobody, then did 100 paces run, 100 paces walk etc. Within a fortnight I got bored stopping to walk. You can build up stamina really fast and get lots of fresh air into the bargain.

So give running, or swimming, or trampolining, or anything a go this year- I think best when I am running, then make a note of all my ideas on my return – try it – it might work for you too!

Sandy Moretta is the UKAWP’s Membership Director and also owns Tern Events, operating throughout the South East of England