5 BEXI tips to be the best version of yourself

/in , , /by
What an awesome weekend!  Sunny skies, warmer temps and Australia beats England in the world rugby club. Happy days!

We love this time of year – we’re happier, energised, motivated and inspired to get things done. Tick those boxes. Set new goals. Achieve new challenges.

I recently ticked a goal off my bucket list – the Sunny Coast 70.3 Half-Ironman. An awesome event and achievement. It was tough, it was hard – but the reason for sharing this is that there were some pretty important lessons I learnt along the way. I’ve summarized them below:

  • Use the energy that the universe offers you (summer is great!)
  • Set a goal that truly inspires you
  • Engage a coach/trainer who inspires you
  • Make yourself accountable to your coach/trainer
  • Surround yourself with a community of like-minded friends
If you’re looking to get active, change your body, learn to run or train for a specific event – then check out our summer timetable.

SPECIAL OFFER: Register for any of our training programs and you’ll receive our amazing Summer Gift Package (valued $150).  Our new 10-week term starts this Tues, 06 Oct. Seize the day. Commit today!

Debbie Solms
Run Coach | Personal Trainer
Beauty of Exercise

Spring Gift Package

/in , /by

We’re so excited about the start of our upcoming Spring term — longer days, warmer temps, more energy, increased motivation – can it come any sooner?!?

In planning an energetic term that is bursting with fitness, friendship and fun – we’ve added new programs, extra classes and more timeslots to our latest timetable. PLUS, we are offering you an amazing Spring gift package when you register for any of our Spring training programs.

Spring Gift Package (valued over $150)

  • Hypnotherapy CD focusing on ‘Mindset for Runners’ – overcoming barriers to achieve success
  • 1:1 Goal-setting coaching session with our Run Coach
  • Desirable Beauty of Exercise water-bottle
  • Delicious coffee from our friends at Drip Coffee Traders
  • Membership to our amazing community
  • 25% off our awesome BEXI summer singlet

View our latest Spring timetable which runs for 10-weeks, from 6 Oct to 11 Dec 2015.

You’ll feel motivated, inspired and energized to take on any challenge this Spring.

Can’t wait to welcome you!

Debbie and the Beauty of Exercise team

Kids ‘Learn to Run’ Workshop

/in , /by

I am continually asked about offering run technique workshops for kids. Having been one of those kids first starting out with running, I constantly reflect on the skills that I have learnt now, wishing I had know them then. Which is why I have I am particularly motivated and inspired to share what I have learnt over the years, so that our younger generation can benefit as they grow up.

Thrilled to announce that I have finally compiled a holiday workshop targeting kids who are looking to improve their running. The workshop will be 2.5hr in duration and will focus on the following:

  • What good technique looks like
  • Drills to engage the correct running muscles
  • Agility and games to practice good movement patterns
  • Exercises to improve strength, stability and speed
  • Team-based games and activities to build self-esteem
  • Tips on how to make running fun 🙂

The workshop will target kids over the age of 6yrs, who are looking to improve their running. We are offering 2 x workshops during the school holidays, from 9am-11.30am (max 6 children p/workshop):

  • Weds 23 Sept (rescheduled due to rain)
  • Weds 30 Sept (FULLY BOOKED!)
  • Thurs 01 Oct

The cost for the 2.5hr workshop is $30 per child.  If this is something that interests you, then please visit our Family-FIT program for more details.

Mums/Dads – you are welcome to observe the training session, so that you can obtain tips and tricks to further support your child’s development.

Really look forward to nurturing the passion for running in our younger generation!

Click here to register a place for your child.

Debbie Solms
Run Coach
Beauty of Exercise

Top Tips for Embracing Spring

/in , , /by
Goodbye Winter, hello Spring – we’re so excited to see you! The season of new beginnings. Fresh buds bloom, animals awaken and the earth seems to come to life again. As the days get longer and warmer, our motivation levels increase and we start setting our sights on new goals. Get fit, learn to run, train for a marathon, lose weight, etc. Whatever your goal, the time is now.We aptly linked our new Spring term to our favourite mantra:

Our future is created by what we do TODAY, not tomorrow
So to help you get started, we would like to share our top tips for embracing the new season:
  • Decide on a goal that really excites you
  • Write it down so that it become real
  • Tell your friends as they’ll hold you to it
  • Research your options for a trainer/coach to support you
  • Surround yourself with like-minded people
  • Set mini-milestones to keep you focused
  • Celebrate your successes along the way
Yesterday is history, TODAY is a gift, tomorrow is a mystery. If you have a goal in mind, we’d love to support you in making it happen. We’ve packaged an awesome Spring Offer to get you excited for the new term ahead…

SPRING GIFT PACKAGE:
Register for one of our Spring programs and you’ll receive our amazing Spring Gift Package (valued at $150):
– Hypnotherapy CD focusing on ‘Mindset for Runners’ – overcoming barriers to achieve success
– 1:1 Goal-setting coaching session with Debbie Solms (Run Coach)
– Beauty of Exercise water-bottle
– Delicious coffee from our friends at Drip Coffee Traders
– Membership to our amazing community
– 25% off our awesome BEXI summer singlet ($15 vs $20)
We look forward to supporting you achieve your goal!
Debbie and the Beauty of Exercise Team

Pub2Pub Fun Run 2015

/in , /by

Massive thumbs up for this year’s Pub2Pub Fun Run! A truly great community event that always injects a great sense of camaraderie and friendship. This year’s event did not disappoint!

Despite the weather gods looking gloom, the clouds soon lifted and we had awesome running weather. Team BEXI (Beauty of Exercise) was out in full force:

  • TEAM GREEN trumped the event – Dad Jonno teamed up with Lawson (15yr); and Mum Amanda teamed up with Fletcher (12yr). They ran in pairs for the entire race, crossing the finish line together. Such a great achievement – especially to be able to share the experience as a family.
  • TEAM DOUGLAS – do they ever have a rest?!? Mum Felicity (in training for Blackmores Half), powered home in 1:20:08, while Michaela (13yr) and Hamish (10yr) took on the 3km fun run and placed very highly! Hamish came 4th in a time of 00:14:01 (that’s 4:40/km).
  • HELEN PARIS – fresh back from her 3-month ‘around-Australia-family-roadtrip’, was eager to expend her pent-up energy and stormed to the finish in an amazing time of 1:18:11.
  • TANYA BERTOLLI – famous for her huge BEXI-smile, soaked up the atmosphere, crossing the line with… (you guessed it)… a massive BEXI smile.
  • TEAM HUEBENTHAL – young Tobias (7yr) and Marlee (5yr) wore their BEXI shirts with pride as they powered up the hills, with Coach Roslyn Meyer right by their side. Neither of them stopped to walk — think Dad Ralf needs to learn a few tricks from them, hehe!
  • MELANIE SPONG – one of our newest BEXI running recruits used the 3km as a training run for her 5km-FIT program. That off the back of her parkrun-debut the day before — huge kudos!

It was particularly great to support our fellow running buddies from other running clubs – Curl Curl parkrun, Karmea, Trailblazers, Oz Squad, Sydney Striders… and all the others. We love spotting familiar faces and cheering them on with a high-5!

Huge congrats to REEGAN ELLIS (Curl Curl parkrunner) for winning the female category in 00:57:07; and local Dee Why runner, JACK STOLLERY for winning the male category in 00:49:45. Great to keep our prizes local 🙂

Well done to everyone who took part in the event – and all the supporters who braved the weather to cheer on their buddies! We’ll be back next year with an even bigger team to support this fabulous event.

Debbie Solms
Beauty of Exercise Run Coach

Team BEXI

Team BEXI

Team GREEN

Team GREEN

Team DOUGLAS

Team DOUGLAS

Team HUEBENTHAL

Team HUEBENTHAL

5 Safety Tips for Runners

/in , /by

I went out for my morning run at 5.30am this morning – it was dark and very quiet.  I was very mindful of my surroundings and was aware of the few other runners around me.

One of the key topics I cover in my 5km-FIT program is that of ‘Safety’. So there I was, diligently kitted with bright head-torch, fluorescent BEXI orange top, ID-bracelet and carrying my mobile phone. I was armed and dangerous!

The key thing that surprised me about being out there in the pitch dark on my own, was the number of other female runners who were running with their headphones. They were clearly absorbed in their music and unaware of my presence coming up behind them. I waved as I passed, which made them literally jump out of their skin!

Having recently heard of an incident that took place in the exact same location (with a female runner on her own), I cannot stress the importance of being on the alert when you are out running on your own in the dark. Ladies (& Gents), be sensible – leave the headphones at home. That way you are aware of your surroundings, and mindful of anyone (or thing) coming up behind you. I am not a fan of headphones, but respect those who are. If you REALLY need your headphones to go running – then drop one earpiece, so that you can hear what is happening around you. Your safety is paramount!

Below are my 5-top safety tips for runners:

  • Run with a buddy (if you can)
  • Carry a mobile phone – I use a SPI Belt (in bright orange) to carry my iphone and keys – http://www.spibelt.com.au/
  • Don’t wear headphones – or only use one earpiece (if you must!)
  • Wear a ROAD-ID Bracelet – contains all your important information and emergency contact details –  http://www.roadid.com/
  • Wear fluorescent clothing if running in the dark (our BEXI orange tops are fab!)

Enjoy your running… just do it safely 🙂

Debbie Solms
Beauty of Exercise Run Coach

Happy Families

/in , , /by

 

Setting a stellar example for their boys!

Back off the success of Dad’s first half-marathon in the Gold Coast, and Mum’s first half-marathon in Canberra (both in absolutely awesome times!) — the Crane family are at it again. This times with their two sons – Lawson (15yrs) and Fletcher (12yrs) – training for the Pub2Pub Fun Run.

The boys have been hugely inspired by Dad and Mum’s recent achievements, so now they would like to train together for a family goal. Each Saturday we meet up for a group training session – focusing on hills, speed, endurance, sand running, etc.  We always maintain a strong focus on adopting the correct technique – i.e. posture, stride, cadence, mindset.  Then in the week the Crane family complete a further homework session – which is focused on distance/endurance (building up to 12km). This is to ensure they are comfortable spending longer periods of time on their feet.

The Crane family are truly inspirational – from setting a goal, to delivering on it. (And boy do they deliver!) Our entire BEXI community have huge respect for the Crane family and we are all behind them in their conquest to conquer the 14.5km Pub2Pub Fun-Run in 5-weeks time!

Jonathan and Amanda – congratulations on your recent achievements, and even BIGGER congratulations on setting such a stellar example for your kids – you make us all very proud!

Look forward to sharing the journey with you and celebrating at the finish line on Sunday 23rd August.

Go Team Crane!

Blackmores Sydney Running Festival

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

One of the world’s most spectacular running festivals on the race calendar – Sun 20 September 2015. Taking in historic landmarks including the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair and the Royal Botanic Gardens… ranking it highly on the race calendar.

The Gold-Label Blackmores Sydney Running Festival is one of our favourites… and best of all, it’s on our doorstep!

If you’re looking to run a marathon, half-marathon or join the family for the 9km Bridge Run – we’ve got a training program for you. We make it fun, inclusive, progressive and achievable. Our main goal is to support you in getting to the start line feeling fit, strong, prepared, injury-free… and then over the finish line having achieved your goal.

 

What training programs are available?

  • Marathon (42km) – 15 week program, starts Sat 6 June
  • Half-Marathon (21km) – 12 week program, starts Sat 27 June
  • Bridge Run (9km) – 8 week program, starts Sat 25 July
What is included in the training?

  • Weekly training sessions
    • Marathon/Half Marathon – Tues intervals | Sat long runs
    • Bridge Run (family) – Sat intervals
  • Structured training focusing on strength, speed and endurance
  • Strong emphasis on technique and proper running form
  • Important guidance on mental skills, pacing, injury prevention, recovery, race prep
  • Valuable tips on nutrition and hydration
  • Ongoing motivational support
What is the training cost?

  • Marathon – Unlimited Pass + $60 top-up (Race-FIT 42km)
  • Half-Marathon – Unlimited Pass + $30 top-up (Race-FIT 21km)
  • Bridge Run – $200 family (2 adults and 2 siblings) | $140 individuals

Full package information
How do I register?

Register directly online – select Program → Standard Package ($) → and/or Seasonal Offer ($).

You will also need to register separately for the Blackmores Sydney Running Festival – early bird expires 31 July 2015.

Together we can! Join our awesome running team today! 

Pub2Pub Fun Run & Festival

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Our favourite community fun run is on again – Sun 23 August 2015! This year it is bigger and better. Finishing at the Newport Surf Club, with a real festival atmosphere. Yay!

Training for the 14.5km event starts on Sat 27 June. Our 8-week training program targets the entire family – mum, dad & siblings (10yr+). It is fun, energy-packed and progresses gradually – you’ll be having so much fun, you won’t even know you’re training!

What is included in the training?

  • Weekly family training sessions on Saturdays, 2-3pm
  • Fun training sessions targeting the whole family (Dad’s too!)
  • Strong emphasis on correct technique and good running form
  • Guidance on pacing, injury prevention, recovery, race prep and mental skills
  • Valuable tips on nutrition, race gear… and having fun 🙂
  • Ongoing motivational support and BEXI inspiration
What is the training cost?

The cost of the 8-week family training program is $200 – this INCLUDES a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 siblings).
Individuals can join at $140.
How do I register?

Register directly online, select PROGRAM and SEASONAL OFFER ($).
You will also need to register separately for the Pub2Pub Fun Run – early bird expires 5 July.

It’s the little memories that will last a lifetime – commit now!

 

 

This Girl is not for Quitting!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Felicity Douglas is one very gutsy and determine lady! A mother of 4 x very active teens, a wife, a business owner, an  inspirational BEXI (Beauty of Exercise) runner… and also someone who has Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Her world was rocked 10yrs ago when she was diagnosed, but with the support of her family, friends and a fiercely ‘I-will-succeed’ attitude – Felicity has gone on to accomplish a huge number achievements in her life.

Below is Felicity’s recent account of her awesome PB at the SMH Half-Marathon:

Early Sunday morning I lined up for the SMH Half Marathon. The race had been a long time coming! I had commenced training with the Canberra Race-Fit crew in January but had not traveled to Canberra.

Training had been a mixed bag, full commitment is hard with 4 kids and work, but you need to accept that you can only do what you can. I love the Race-Fit training and was very inspired by the other BEXI Runners. I lined up in the Blue (fast) start – this was ambitious, but starting in the slower group the previous year proved frustratingly slow.

After a fast start… I was feeling fantastic and confident of a great time until I hit about the 12-14km mark. The quick start and the hills then caught up with me. I was hitting the wall – and literally had to repeat my mantra “one foot after another”. I didn’t give up… much as I wanted to. Other runners were very encouraging.

About 2km to the finish I was almost at a crawl. I stopped to ‘reset’ – stretching my arms in the air. A fellow runner called out “go on you can do it”… I took off to finish my race on my terms. Stumbling across the line into the arms of 2 first-aiders… but not before stopping my watch at the credible 1:52 time (7:30min PB!). The poor fellows were dumbstruck that I was more interested in my PB than being able to stand up!

I want to remind you all that so much of your race is in your head. I was aiming for a pleasant sub-2hr half-marathon but went all-out when I felt great on the day. Thank you Debbie and my fellow BEXI Runners for all the support and training. Love the BEXI support network!

Now bring on Gold Coast Half-Marathon! They tell me it’s flat and I now have a sub 1:45 to chase.

Felicity Douglas
1:52 Half-Marathoner
Inspirational BEXI Runner

SMH Half-Marathon

SMH Half-Marathon