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NEW YEAR, BETTER ME

01/02/2016

I mentioned before that I’m not much of a resolutions kinda girl. I have the willpower of a gnat and add in the factor of being told – if only by myself – that I can’t do something? 9 times out of 10, girl’s gonna do it… Now, health and fitness is a bit of a grey area for me. I like healthy food and I also have coeliac disease meaning that “normal” bread, cakes etc. are off the menu. However, their gluten free (pumped full of chemicals) counterparts which I do often indulge in at breakfast/lunch/afternoon tea meetings, are even worse for you. So there’s swings and roundabouts there. I mean, also add in the fact that I love takeaways/eating out/all the sweet stuff/all the savoury stuff and generally just all the food and you’ve got a girl that on the whole, probably gets her 5 fruit and veg in a day but definitely also gets her 5x the amount of fat/sugar/carbs etc. in, in a day too.

Exercise. I mean, I’m an extra fries kinda girl – genuine fact: my fiance and I ate frozen chips serving 12 people between us last weekend, no lie – and with my recently diagnosed fibromyalgia (which is 99.9% terrible news with the 0.1% being the fact that I can do no exercise and not feel too guilty about it) – exercise is pretty much non-existent in my life.

But despite not being into resolutions, and despite having a huge appetite for food and netflix in bed kinda days… I’ve realised – finally, at the grand old age of 23 – that I might find it great fun being an overeating sloth, but my body probably thinks I’m an absolute knob hates me for it, and seeing as life is so short/we only have one/[insert your own choice of favourite cheesy life quote here] I’ve finally made the decision to look after myself more. Not to overhaul my life and be the next “no dairy/no gluten/no sugar/no flavour/no life” guru, but just to use the new year to become a new better me and I’ve managed to do this with just a few simple steps that I really hope help you as much as they have me.

The Fitbit. Never in my life did I think I’d own, use and actually love a fitbit but after trialling the Fitbit Charge HR I realised that it’s benefitted me and my fitness – which still feels so bloomin’ weird to say – in more than just one way. The Charge HR (heart rate) version of the Fitbit focuses on the heart rate making it easier to track calorie burn, maintain exercise intensity and maximise your training regime. What I absolutely love about it is that it just does so much and yet is a pretty neat little thing. It’s so comfortable that I actually forget I’m even wearing it and isn’t too large to stand out/look unsightly.

So, looks over, what does the Fitbit do exactly and how/has it actually helped me? So it records pretty much everything. From your heart rate, to calories burned, to floors climbed and active minutes, it really does give such an insight into how active (or in my case, inactive) you really are and I think this in itself, is motivation enough to make a change. Before I even saw my results, I immediately wanted to do more (and then I saw my results and knew that I had to more). In short, over the space of the last two weeks I’ve increased my steps dramatically – oh hello walks around the park with 1D blaring in my ear holes – started using the stairs more often rather than the lift – do I have Beyonce’s butt yet? – and tried to limit the amount of time just sat totally still at my laptop and I have to say that in general, whilst it hasn’t quite been long enough to feel an improvement in my fitness, I feel so much happier and better in myself knowing that I’m doing (even just a little) more and trying to make a change. Small steps people, small steps…

The Fitbit Charge HR also records your sleep which I think is incredible. Again, to be totally honest, as a long term insomniac I already know that I don’t sleep much (subtle way of saying I basically don’t sleep at all #EdwardCullenNextDoor) however if you do sleep “normally” but can’t tell if you’re getting enough sleep, this would be so perfect!

You can track all of the data the fitbit records online but they also have an app which I have to say, is incredible! It’s so quick and easy to set up and you can literally see your records in seconds. I’m not saying it’s turned me into Mo Farah – although I do run pretty quickly when the takeaway guy knocks at the door – but it has made me make so much more of an effort to move and eventually, get fit!

Now the exercise side is over – [insert hands up/hallelujah emoji here] – it’s time for nutrition. Now, as I mentioned above, I am definitely not turning into a holier than holy superfood robot, but I know that changes need to be made and one of my favourite ways of doing this has been switching my afternoon peanut butter/gf cake/chocolate/[insert your own form of calorific artery clogging food here] for a healthy smoothie courtesy of the Nutribullet – and any leftover fruit/veg/peanut butter (soz, had to leave it in somewhere) that I can find. I’m sure you’ve all heard of the Nutribullet before and that’s for good reason. Considering how small it is, this bad boy blends everything in a matter of seconds meaning that smoothies, nut butters, soups, cakes mixtures (you get the gist, anything) is super quick and easy.

Today I opted for a Spinach, Blueberry, banana, yogurt and Coconut Milk smoothie and I promise it tasted better than the swamp water looking concoction that it turned out like [insert cry laughter emoji here].

Finally, and personally for me I think most importantly, looking after yourself mentally. It’s not the first time that I’ve mentioned that my work-life balance is totally, well… unbalanced. I’m forever being told by family and friends that I work too much and never take time off and that’s definitely something that I’m attempting to change this year. Whether it’s just an hour or so in the evening to watch your favourite series – Oh hello Harvey Spector Suits – or read a magazine. To have a nice long bath or just chill with friends… I personally think I’m much more productive when I’m less stressed anyway so here’s to a more chilled out, less overworked Elle in 2016*

*i.e more Netflix and Chill sundays #WinningInLife

And that brings me to the end of this post. I know it may seem a little daunting – and very unlike me – but I really feel like to actually get started with this health thing it’s best to just hit it from all angles, which is exactly what I’m attempting to do.

I’d love to know if you have any fitness tips, posts or favourite video’s to watch? Or just some inspiration, because girlfriend needs all the help she can get! 😉

As always, thanks so much for reading!
xx

*This post is in collaboration with Debenhams, but all thoughts, slightly dodgy sportswear and love of slimy looking smoothies, my own.

79 responses to “NEW YEAR, BETTER ME”

  1. Neeny says:

    Wow, love your new blog layout!
    My sister in law recently got the Fitbit wristband and it sounds really good, I was going to get one soon!
    As for that Nutribullet I haven't heard of that but it's definitely something I need! I've been making a lot of smoothies recently and it's a struggle getting out my big blender so this one would be so useful, thanks for sharing! 🙂
    I haven't really made any resolutions this year except look after myself and make better choices
    And to help me with that I just started my new blog where I'll be sharing healthy recipes so maybe you can use them! (I have my favourite smoothie recipes too!)
    Looking forward to reading more of your posts 🙂

    Neeny | Spoon Full Of Yum

  2. I have a Nutri Bullet too! I love it so much
    xo
    http://www.laurajaneatelier.com

  3. great tips 🙂
    you look perfect 🙂
    cape outfit

  4. I'm loving this post Ellie! Love the pink & grey workout clothes, you look so cute! I love my Nutribullet too but I use mine for the opposite, making delicious fatty milkshakes haha.

    http://www.duchessoffashion.co.uk

  5. Beautylymin says:

    I love my Nutribullet! I have green smoothies every day! Great post! xx

    Beautylymin

  6. Angie Silver says:

    I just bought a fitbit too! Super useful – I'm trying to go on more power walks!
    Lots of love,
    Angie
    SilverSpoon London

  7. Emma Copland says:

    My boyfriend got me a fitbit last year, to begin with I was like why the f*ck do I need this? But it really has motivated to move more. It also showed me that I moved very little over xmas and New Year so I also got myself a nutirbullet last week and I am already in love. It think is so important to find balance and stay healthy to be happy.

    Emma Inks

  8. I'm so glad you sound as in love with your FitBit as I am – I've found it so useful, especially in making me more mindful about how inactive I am at work!

    Emma | HarmonyBlaze.co.uk

  9. Jordan says:

    I've been trying to get a bit fitter lately (not really working ngl :')) but I bought a blender recently and I love having smoothies!

    hellomissjordan.com xx

  10. LeahSephira says:

    Ive heard so many good things about FitBit, the day i decide to embark on a fitness journey I think I'd like to get me one of them badboys.
    Also, Id really like to get my hands on a nutribullet. I have a blender, which is pretty good but I'd like to have a smaller machine too.

    – LS
    http://www.sephira.dk

  11. It looks like such a handy device

    Candice | Beauty Candy Loves

  12. Exercise is pretty much non existent in my life too – I need to get back into yoga! x

    Heather | Of Beauty & Nothingness x

  13. Nicole says:

    I love this post, I am very similar to you in the way that I love healthy food but also eat too much of the bad stuff. I've just started getting back to the fitness and feel so much better for it!
    Nicole xx

  14. The fitbit is gorgeous, I love the colour and design it looks a lot better than ones I have seen before! You have absolute bod goals and love your gymwear xxx

  15. Lauren S says:

    HAIR HAIR HAIR HAIR – need to see this IRL! The fitbit sounds awesome, I've just started with a PT and want to make sure I actually get in shape and fit this year, so the fact it tracks you is so good – need to up my game!

    Lauren x
    Britton Loves | Lifestyle Beauty Wellbeing

  16. Kelsey Bang says:

    very fun post! your sneakers are the cutest!

    kelseybang.com

  17. I love your positive energy, it is what gives the strength. I didn't really think about getting fitbit before, but now when I think about it, it would be interesting to record everything. Even though I love eating a bag of crisp, I should also start clean eating. xx

    http://www.elabellaworld.com

  18. LBG says:

    Very inspiring! The wristband sounds so helpful! I need to exercise more and get motivated. Love this post! You look fantastic!

    http://Leftbankgirl.blogspot.com

  19. Stephanie says:

    You look amazing!! Everyone I know that has a fit it loves it! Im an extra fries girl too.

  20. Sorry about the fibro diagnoses, but staying fit and eating healthy is definitely 3what is needed.

    Angie | Chocolate & Lipstick | Beauty, Fashion & Lifestyle Blog

  21. Caroline says:

    You look bloomin' amazing!
    I had a Fitbit, a bit like the zip, that I used for a little while. However, I think the HR would be a better fit to me. I used to use the Nike + band, but it was an awful looking band and was probably more suited to runners.
    The Fitbit definitely looks more appealing design wise.
    Your blog is fab and it should be with the amount you put in it, but don't be scared to take time to yourself. You need it. Both creatively and personally. You deserve it. 🙂

    Caroline.x
    http://www.notesfromcaroline.com

    • Ahh thank you lovely, that's so funny because I'm so lazy and eat terribly! Thanks so much for your lovely comment, I definitely do need time out and am trying my best to take it 🙂

      xx

  22. I didn't realize that you had fibromyalgia, I'm sorry to hear that – I don't know much about it but hope you're OK. I have a Fitbit that I need to start using again as I find it really motivational

  23. Alina Bostan says:

    What a fantastic post Elle, I couldn't feel more inspired reading it. I've not had the greatest start to the year so far and feeling really down but I am determined to pick myself up this month and just work on myself starting from within especially mentally too. I love the sound of the Fitbit wristband, what a great little gadget I don't have NutriBullet but make smoothies regularly and the one you made here sounds delicious x

    Beauty with charm

  24. Love it! I had fun reading this.

    ** I'm inviting you to join Love, Beauty Bloggers on facebook. A place for beauty and fashion bloggers from all over the world to promote their latest posts!

    BEAUTYEDITER.COM
    Subscribe to my YouTube Channel

  25. My friend has the same fitbit! I've been meaning to try and improve my non existent fitness and I thought starting off with my diet would be a good place to start.. maybe I will get there this year haha! 🙂 xx

  26. Anonymous says:

    This post is really inspiring, Elle! I really enjoyed it! The pictures are stunning and I really like the idea of 'New year, better me" instead of the 'New year, new me'. Hope you are having a great week! xx

    Ale | http://www.alemint.net

  27. It nice to take care of ourself once in a while.
    Of course, who else will do?
    And it serves a great benefit not just to our body but to our whole life.

    Great to know about Fitbit. Such a cool gear

    The Bandwagon Chic | Instagram | Bloglovin | Snapchat: bandwagonchic

  28. Call Me Amy says:

    Ooh this post has come at just the right time, I'm giving myself a right kick up the butt this month in terms of fitness so any inspo is great! That smoothie sounds delicious!
    Amy xx Call Me Amy

  29. I love this kind of post! Definitely motivating me to get my arse off the sofa. Quite tempted by the fitbit, but I hate wearing watches, I can't wear them for more than a few hours as they just annoy me! I love how much energy homemade smoothies give me too!

    Kirstie | Behind The Scent

  30. Rachel-Beth says:

    Loving your workout gear Elle! It's so awesome that the fitbit tracks all of those things- I've been looking at getting one for a while cos at the moment I use a shitty health tracker on my phone haha! That smoothie looks super healthy too

    Rachel xx
    http://www.thedailyluxe.net

  31. In love with the new look on your site!! Loving how stylish you made the template!
    Loving the post! So motivated!
    Dora http://www.BangsBang.com

  32. crafty-zone says:

    I'm really impressed that The Fitbit Charge HR among others records sleep, it sounds like amazing product! What's more, your post, Elle is so motivating me to start working out, the first step is always the hardest one 🙂

    http://crafty-zone.blogspot.com/

  33. Meg Siobhan says:

    I really need to buy a Fitbit – maybe if I keep the healthy stuff up, then I shall! Which is hilarious because as I write this tweet, my hip is absolutely killing me (cheers Fibro for flaring up when I need to go to work!)

    Meg | A Little Twist Of…

  34. Gabrielle says:

    I already eat pretty healthily (bar those days when you go all out and eat everything!), though have just bought a NutriBullet ready to up my game, so this was inspiring to see… time to get using mine! Also, your workout outfits aren't at all dodgy, take it from someone who loves working out and so gets through gear so quickly they end up wearing oversized Spongebob Squarepants t-shirts to run in. Oops…

    Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice
    x

  35. Sharan says:

    Picked up a nutribullet recently too and I absolutely love it! I do sometimes end up with a horrid looking smoothie haha, but they generally always taste nice. Definitely want to invest in a fitbit next – nifty little things! Thanks for sharing xo

    Sharan | essehearts.com

  36. hahaha omg yes im definitely an "extra fries" kind of girl too!! loved this post, goodluck with your health adventures girl!

    ♥ Ellen #NZblogger
    SHOPSTYLECONQUER.COM
    Facebook + Instagram

  37. First of all, your hair, holy cow I'm in love. Secondly, (as you can tell I have JUST found the time to catch up with my favorite bloggers), the new(ish?) layout looks beautiful, I dig it. Third, you look so in shape, good for you!

    n- Naomi in Wonderland

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