How did you get into going to the gym?
I found the gym after effectively being dragged down to the gym by a good friend who was sick of my whingeing that I was not active enough or had the time for exercise. All very common complaints. I soon found my way around the gym and like anywhere it has its own vibe. I set about challenging myself every gym session to do one better than the last. This appealed to my competitive streak and with the aid of numerous apps where I could track my progress, I soon saw progress not only in distances and weights but also in physical and mental health. To quote one of my old managers, ‘go to the gym you are getting grumpy’.

What do you enjoy most about it?
It’s time away where I have to focus on something totally different, which is not work. So, I value the time out which is only 4/5 hours a week but it is valuable time. During lockdown it was a real struggle to keep the same with home workouts. So when the gym reopened I was really pleased to get a rhythm back again.

How does going to the gym benefit your wellbeing?
The benefits are not just physical, but also mental too. I feel more refreshed in work, it also helps with providing some structure around the working week. However, the ability to work flexibly allows me to fit both work and wellness together.

Why do you recommend going to the gym?
A former leader once said to me ‘planes in some capacity will always come and go. There will always be something to do and worry about’. Since then, I have made sure I manage my time to allow me the space to focus on my own wellbeing. It may be a challenge if you have children and a hectic household but even if it’s just taking yourself out for a walk before or after the working day or over lunch, it can defiantly help. Id does not have to be the gym or a swimming pool, what work’s for you and your circumstances is the key message.