I don't mind admitting I'm in total agony.
I know they say the most worthwhile things in life are worth putting in the effort but it's been three weeks now and all I've gained is a collection of unusual sporting injuries including an inflamed breastbone, a dodgy knee and weak ankle.
When the morning walking proved too much for my problematic calves, I looked around for another way to get fit and lose weight and by pure chance, I stumbled upon a ladies legs, bums and tums class not too far away and so, I signed up.
I really enjoyed the first class, which was all about toning and weights, and the instructor John was so supportive and really encouraged me to work at my own pace.
It was during this class that I heard about a ladies boxercise class in the same gym and decided to give it a go.
While the class was really tough, I loved how liberating it was to get stuck into a punch bag while picturing the faces of all the people who have annoyed me, pushed me and tested me.
It was during the first class that I realised I had lost the ability to skip.
I think the last time I performed such an action I was in primary school and while I probably aced it back then, my ability to do it has since disappeared.
During the first class, I made a right show of myself, managing to step jump only a handful of times while all the rest of the ladies did fantastic impressions of Rocky.
However, the instructor Manuel was just brilliant, giving me tips, encouraging me and keeping up my spirits.
I have been practising but so far all I have mastered is around 25 skips in a row quite fast, but no more.
So, for the past three weeks I have been going to the toning class and the boxercise class - four classes a week in total.
I have endured squat jumps, star jumps, kettle bell swinging, press ups, circuits, running, boxing and the dreaded skipping.
During one of the classes last week, I actually threw up a little in my mouth. It was gross.
And to make matters worse, all I have lost is one pound - one teeny, tiny little pound.
I have never felt as demoralised as when I stepped on the scales just before I starting writing this.
What makes it worse is that away from the gym, I have been trying to be good too.
When I need a snack, I have a banana or a pear and at night I have swapped chips for rice with dinner.
What more can I do and why won't more pounds shift a bit quicker?
I guess this is going to be a lot harder than I thought.
Let's just hope the lovely girls in this class continue to keep me motivated.
Wish me luck.
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Great news for Indiana Jones fans this week as filming on the fifth instalment of the franchise is finally set to get under way following Covid-related delays.
The movie, which began shooting at Bamburgh Castle in Northumberland in England, will once again star Harrison Ford in the lead role as action-loving archaeologist, Indiana Jones.
Joining him this time around is Mads Mikkelsen and Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
James Mangold is directing while legendary composer John Williams is also set to return.
And, while plot details are being kept under wraps, no doubt there will be plenty of whip-lashing action.
Bring it on.
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Competition
So, with the new normal finally up and running, we have to remember to take things easy and take care of ourselves - so how do you fancy winning a pair of luxurious pillows to help ensure you get your best sleep?
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In addition, its natural wool fibres are covered in high-quality cotton.
The pillow is wonderfully breathable, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter and wool is clinically proven to prevent germs and allergens, making it a must-have for those with hay-fever or dust allergies.
There is also a range of aromatherapy Sleep Sprays including Lavender, Sound Sleep and Deep Sleep which can be spritzed on your pillow every night.
Further information is available at www.woolow.com
I have one Woolow set, which includes two pillows and a room spray gift, to give away.
If you fancy winning a Woolow set, simply email your name, address and telephone number – along with
the answer to the question below – to competitions@irishnews.com
Closing date for entries is 12 noon on on Tuesday, June 15, 2021
(Q) Name the three aromatheraphy Sleep Sprays available from Woolow
Normal Irish News Rules Apply
Please note, this prize must be collected from the Irish News offices
COMPETITION WINNERS
The winners of the Bellamianta competition are Mairead Coogan, from Navan, Teresa McGarry, from Belfast and Aoife Ní Chaiside, from Maghera
