Author: Lori Skerritt

Why Meditation Is the Secret Ingredient in Your Fitness Routine

Posted on by Lori Skerritt

Why Meditation Is the Secret Ingredient in Your Fitness Routine

When you think about improving your health and fitness, your first thought might be about moving more; lifting weights, running on a treadmill, or flowing through yoga. But one of the most powerful tools for enhancing your physical and mental wellbeing doesn’t involve movement at all — it’s meditation!

As we mark World Meditation Day, it’s the perfect time to explore how a few minutes of mindfulness each day can support everything from recovery to motivation, and even improve your performance in the gym.

What Is Meditation and Why Does It Matter?

Meditation is a mental practice that helps you slow down and connect with the present moment. It can take many forms, from mindfulness meditation, which involves gently observing your thoughts and feelings without judgment, to yoga meditation and breathing exercises that guide you toward calmness through focused breath. 

When paired with a health and fitness routine, meditation helps reduce stress, clear the mind, and strengthen the body’s natural ability to perform and recover. Whether you’re just beginning your journey at the gym or are deep into Pilates, strength training, or aerobic exercise, meditation gives your brain the same intentional attention you give your body. 

Recovery

After any workout, whether it’s Pilates, weight training, or a dance workout, your muscles need time to repair and grow stronger. But so does your nervous system. Exercise puts your body into a state of stress (the good kind!), and meditation helps shift it back into a calm, healing mode. 

Practicing mindfulness meditation post-workout has been shown to lower cortisol (a stress hormone), improve sleep quality, and even reduce soreness. This means faster recovery times and a more sustainable routine. Adding a 5–10-minute breathing session after a gym workout can help you feel restored, both mentally and physically. 

Focus

Staying focused during a workout can be challenging. Our minds often drift to to-do lists, notifications, or self-doubt. But focus is key to getting the most from your time at the gym. 

Meditation trains your brain to stay present, which helps you pay attention to your form, breathe more intentionally, and feel more connected to your body during a session. This is especially important in Pilates classes, yoga, and reformer Pilates, where alignment and breath are crucial. 

Over time, regular meditation sharpens your concentration both in and outside the gym, making every workout more mindful and effective. 

Motivation

Let’s face it – motivation comes and goes, but mindfulness can help you stay rooted in your “why” — your deeper reason for showing up to move and care for your body. 

Through meditation, you learn to observe your thoughts, notice negative self-talk, and respond with more compassion and intention. This can stop the “all or nothing” mindset that often gets in the way of progress. 

Feeling unmotivated? A short guided meditation can help shift your mood and get you back on track. When you’re mentally aligned with your goals, physical movement becomes more purposeful and enjoyable. 

Performance

In yoga and Pilates, breath is everything. But even in strength training and cardio, how you breathe impacts how you perform. 

Meditation helps you become more aware of your breath — helping you move with control and reduce tension. With better breathing patterns, you’ll notice improved endurance, strength, and flexibility. 

Whether you’re in a yoga class, pushing through Muscle Pump, or simply going for a walk, using the breath as your anchor increases your energy, stability, and calm during workouts and in life. 

Ready to Feel the Benefits?

If you’re new to this, and would like to incorporate mediation in you fitness routine, start small. Try sitting quietly for five minutes a day. You can simply close your eyes and focus on your breath, noticing the inhale, the exhale, and how your body feels. 

Or, join one of our calming classes at YMCA KX, where we bring together movement and mindfulness in a supportive, welcoming space. We offer Pilates classes, yoga, and a variety of low-impact workouts designed to help you feel stronger, more centred, and more in tune with yourself. 

Whether you’re looking for stress relief, focus, or recovery support, meditation is a simple step that can change your health and fitness journey from the inside out. 

Discover the Power of Stillness This World Meditation Day

Celebrate by joining us at YMCA KX. Try a class, meet our friendly team, and take that first breath toward a healthier, calmer you. To get started download the Central YMCA app on the App Store or Google Play. Or contact us to book a tour by calling 020 3817 9919 or emailing info.onekx@ymca.co.uk. 

The Wellness Power of the Group Exercise Class

Posted on by Lori Skerritt

The Wellness Power of the Group Exercise Class

This Mental Health Awareness Week, we’re celebrating the theme of “Community” because community represents more than just a group of people. It’s a sense of belonging, shared experience, and support that can have a powerful effect on our wellbeing. At YMCA KX, we believe community is at the heart of everything we do, and this is most evidenced in the nature of our  exercise classes.

Whether you’re stepping into a Pilates studio for the first time, joining a yoga class to find calm, or trying a fun dance workout to lift your mood, you’re doing more than moving your body – you’re joining a supportive community where health and happiness go hand in hand.

Movement with Meaning

Exercise is great for physical health, but did you know that aerobic exercise and regular movement are proven to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms? When you join an exercise class at YMCA KX, you’re also improving your mental health. Shared physical activity increases endorphins, lowers stress, and gives you that all-important post-workout boost.

But there’s something even more powerful about doing it together. Group exercise classes help reduce loneliness, offer accountability, and create real social connection. Whether it’s a smile from your instructor or a friendly chat before class, these moments of connection matter.

Yoga & Pilates

If you’re looking to feel more centred, yoga and Pilates are incredible tools. In our yoga classes, you’ll learn mindful breathing, improve your flexibility, and reduce stress in a welcoming space. Meanwhile, Pilates (and especially our Reformer Pilates classes) helps you build strength and balance in a low-impact, joint-friendly way.

Our Pilates and yoga classes are offered for all levels and focus on moving with purpose. You’ll leave feeling not just physically stronger, but mentally calmer too – essential ingredients for wellbeing.

Dance Workouts

Dancing is one of the most joyful ways to move. Whether you’re a seasoned mover or have two left feet, our dance fitness classes offer a fun, judgment-free space to let go, get sweaty, and connect. Dance blends cardio, coordination, and creativity, all while keeping your heart and mood lifted.

Your Wellness Community

Located just minutes from King’s Cross Station, YMCA KX is more than just a gym. It’s a welcoming, supportive community dedicated to helping people become healthier and happier.

We also proudly offer programmes like Positive Health, a referral-based initiative supporting those with long-term health conditions, helping them move more and live well.

Choose What’s Right for You

We offer flexible membership options to meet you where you are on your health and fitness journey:

  • Move More Feel Good – Ideal for those easing into movement.
  • Classes Only – For fans of yoga, Pilates, dance, and more.
  • Gym & Classes – For full access to our gym and exercise classes.

Ready to Join Our Community?

This Mental Health Awareness Week, take a step toward better health and wellness, not just for your body, but for your mind. Find your people, move your way, and discover what fitness can feel like when community comes first.

Download the Central YMCA app on the App Store or Google Play. Or contact us to book a tour by calling 020 3817 9919 or emailing info.onekx@ymca.co.uk. Let’s move, connect and grow in confidence together!

No motivation to workout in the gym? Here are 5 tips to get you up and moving

Posted on by Lori Skerritt

No motivation to workout in the gym? Here are 5 tips to get you up and moving

We’ve all been there – planning to hit the gym or go for a run, but when the time comes, that little voice says, “I’ll do it tomorrow… or maybe the day after.”

Finding motivation to exercise can be challenging, especially when you’re tired or juggling a busy schedule. But it’s not just about “powering through” or forcing yourself to do it. Instead, it’s about building habits that help you stay on track even when you have no motivation to workout.

Here are five actionable tips to help you regain your gym motivation and stay committed to your fitness journey:

1. Change your perspective

Many people associate exercise solely with weight loss or improving their physique, but it’s much more than that. Regular physical activity benefits your mental health and overall well-being. It reduces stress, boosts mood, and helps manage anxiety and depression. On World Mental Health Day, it’s important to remember that exercise is an effective tool to support mental wellness. Likewise, staying active can lower the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. By focusing on these broader benefits, you might find it easier to exercise, even when you feel no motivation.

2. Think fun and variety

Exercise should never feel like a chore. To stay motivated, incorporate variety into your fitness routine. Try a new group class, experiment with different workout styles, or get a few friends together for a personal training session. There are so many options available, from yoga to HIIT classes, that there’s something for everyone. Keeping an open mind and exploring new activities will help you stay engaged and excited about your workouts. When you’re having fun, it’s much easier to keep going—even on days when motivation to exercise is low.

3. Set specific goals

Setting clear, realistic goals is essential to staying motivated in the long run. Use the SMART method—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely—to define your fitness objectives. For example, instead of saying, “I want to get in shape,” try setting a concrete goal like, “I will jog for 20 minutes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday before breakfast.” Having specific goals to work toward makes your progress measurable, which can boost your motivation, especially when you track your success over time. When you see yourself moving closer to your goals, it’s much easier to overcome those “no motivation” days.

4. Schedule your workouts like an appointment

One of the most common excuses for skipping workouts is, “I don’t have time.” But the truth is, we make time for what’s important. If you struggle with fitting exercise into your day, treat it like any other important appointment. Block out time in your schedule for workouts and stick to it. Just like you wouldn’t cancel a meeting with your boss, don’t cancel your workout. Whether you’re busy with work, family, or other commitments, scheduling fitness into your routine will help you show up even when you feel no motivation to workout.

5. Seek support from others

Staying consistent is easier when you surround yourself with positive, motivated people. Whether it’s a workout buddy, a fitness group, or supportive friends and family, having a network can keep you accountable. Their encouragement can boost your gym motivation, especially on days when you’re struggling. By being around others who prioritise health, you’re more likely to adopt their habits and stay committed to your own fitness goals.

Setting good foundations

If you still find yourself lacking motivation to exercise, remember that you’re not alone. Staying committed to your goals is possible with the right mindset and support. On World Mental Health Day, take the time to focus on both your physical and mental well-being – because a strong mind is the foundation for a strong body.


Not yet a member of a gym? We invite you to join YMCA KX, which has a variety of friendly classes to choose from.

Level up your workout: How the indoor rowing machine can transform your fitness

Posted on by Lori Skerritt

Level up your workout: How the indoor rowing machine can transform your fitness

Your first visit to a new gym can sometimes be overwhelming as you are confronted by an array of different, and sometimes intimidating, gym equipment.

There’s the treadmill and the bike – those are familiar to us, but what about the indoor rowing machine? This is a piece of equipment that is often overlooked because a) it’s not clear what the benefits of using the indoor rowing machine are and b) it looks a bit complicated to operate.

So, what are the benefits of indoor rowing?

1. Rowing works every muscle in the body

Rowing uses more muscles than any other cardio activity. In the lower body, the calves, hamstrings, quadriceps and glutes are all worked. The upper body uses the abdominals, the lower and upper back, lats, forearms, biceps and shoulder area.

Rowing is also fantastic for the entire core of the body making it the choice piece of equipment when it comes to reducing your waistline.

2. Aerobic benefits

Aerobic exercise is generally relatively low intensity and lasts for periods of time usually more than 20 minutes. Aerobic means “with air” and refers to the body’s use of oxygen to meet energy demands during exercise via aerobic metabolism.

Rowing is an excellent activity to improve cardiovascular fitness, which is the ability of the heart and lungs to supply oxygen-rich blood to the working muscle tissues and the ability of the muscles to use oxygen to produce energy for movement.

The main benefits of increased cardiovascular fitness are:

  • Increased metabolism.
  • Increased efficiency of the body’s ability to pump blood through the circulatory system as the heart becomes stronger.
  • Reduced risk of chronic and life-threatening disease such as coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
  • Effectively combatting anxiety, stress and depression, leading to an increased level of self-esteem.

Aerobic benefits are often achieved by rowing for longer periods of time at lower intensities.

3. Anaerobic benefits

Anaerobic metabolism refers to exercise of an intense nature and is used to promote strength, speed and power. Anaerobic means “without air” and is typically a high intensity activity, which lasts from mere seconds up to two minutes in duration.

Rowing can be used very effectively to increase the anaerobic fitness of an individual as it uses many large body parts and is effective in the recruitment of fast twitch muscle fibres.

4. Stress free on the body

Rowing is impact free and teaches the body to use a full range of movement. Due to the seated position, the ankle, knee, hip, lower back and spine are protected from impact meaning an excellent workout can still be achieved by virtually every cross section of society, from young to old, untrained to fit.

Regular indoor rowers report that there is less perceived effort with an elevated heart rate, therefore you can improve your levels of fitness and stamina much easier without feeling as if you are working as hard. It is easier to maintain a higher heart rate with rowing than it is with other forms of exercise, meaning that you can exercise for longer at a given heart rate to increase your overall fitness capacity.

5. Time efficient and delivers maximum results

We live busy lives, so we ideally want to use equipment that gives the best return on time and effort expended. Due to the recruitment of many large muscle groups, rowing is very time efficient in achieving desired results of fat loss, cardiorespiratory fitness and anaerobic power performance.

Rowing produces superior results in less time giving it more “bang for your buck” than running on a treadmill, cross trainer or stationary bike.

So the next time you’re in YMCA KX, give the indoor rowing machine a try, and reap the benefits of this full body workout.

Check out this video from Olympic champion Alex Gregory to find out how to get your technique right.

You can also watch the benefits of indoor rowing in this video.

Adult Swimming Lessons – Can an Adult Still Learn to Swim?

Posted on by Lori Skerritt

Adult Swimming Lessons – Can an Adult Still Learn to Swim?

The short answer is – yes absolutely!

Learning to swim as an adult can feel daunting, but the good news is – it’s never too late to start. Whether you missed out on swimming lessons as a child or want to improve your skills now, there are plenty of resources available to help you dive in.

Why Learning to Swim as an Adult is Important

Swimming is not just a fun activity; it’s also an essential life skill. Knowing how to swim can save your life in an emergency and open opportunities for water-based activities like snorkelling, kayaking, or even just enjoying a dip in the pool.

Some adults hesitate to learn because they fear it will be too difficult or embarrassing. However, many adults have successfully learned to swim later in life. The key is to approach it with patience and the right support.

Is It Difficult for an Adult to Learn to Swim?

While learning to swim as an adult can present challenges, it’s by no means impossible. Adults often bring a level of focus and determination that can make learning easier in some ways. The most important thing is to take it step by step. Start by getting comfortable in the water, then gradually build up your skills.

One of the common barriers for adults is fear—whether it’s fear of water, embarrassment, or failure. But with the right instruction and mindset, these fears can be overcome. Many adults find that once they start, they quickly progress and gain confidence in the water.

Tips for Adult Learners

1. Start Slowly: Don’t rush the process. Begin by getting used to the water. Practice floating, breathing, and basic strokes.

2. Take Lessons: Professional instruction can make a huge difference. Instructors are trained to help adults overcome fears and learn at their own pace.

3. Practice Regularly: Like any skill, swimming improves with practice. The more time you spend in the water, the more comfortable you’ll become.

4. Stay Positive: Progress may be slow at first, but don’t get discouraged. Celebrate small victories along the way.

Where to Find Adult Swimming Lessons

If you’re in Central London, Central YMCA Club offers excellent options tailored specifically for adults. Just 1 minute walk from Tottenham Court Road station.

Adult Group Swimming Lessons: These lessons are designed for beginners or those looking to improve their skills. Over the course of five weeks, you’ll work with experienced instructors who will guide you through the basics, helping you build confidence in the water.

Adult 1-2-1 Swimming Lessons: If you prefer one-on-one instruction, private lessons are also available. These lessons are customised to your individual needs and goals, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique.

Central YMCA Club’s supportive environment and skilled instructors make it a great place for adults to learn to swim. With flexible scheduling and a focus on your personal progress, you’ll find that learning to swim can be an enjoyable and life-changing experience.

10 Creative Ways to Say Thank You and Show Gratitude

Posted on by Lori Skerritt

10 Creative Ways to Say Thank You and Show Gratitude

Post by:

Lori Skerritt

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Expressing gratitude is a wonderful way to show appreciation and make someone’s day a little brighter. While a simple “thank you” is always nice, adding a creative touch can make your appreciation even more memorable. With it being Thank You Day on July 7, there’s no better time to explore unique ways to say thank you. Here are ten fun and thoughtful ways to say thank you and show gratitude.

1. Handwritten Notes

In this digital age, receiving a handwritten note can feel extra special. Take a few minutes to write a heartfelt message on a beautiful card or a piece of paper. Your words will be cherished long after the note is read.

2. DIY Gifts

Creating something with your own hands shows a lot of effort and care. It could be a homemade candle, a batch of cookies, or a knitted scarf. Your personal gift will be appreciated because of the time and thought you put into making something just for that person.

3. Pottery Creations

Why not make your ‘thank you’ even more unique by crafting a piece of pottery? Through a Ceramics course offered here at Central YMCA Club, you can learn to make beautiful pieces of art, bowls and more. Imagine the delight on your friend’s face when they receive a handmade pottery piece as a token of your gratitude.

4. Personalised Playlists

Music is a great way to connect with others. Create a playlist of songs that remind you of the person you’re thanking or songs that you think they’ll love. It’s a thoughtful way to show you care about their interests and want to make them smile.

5. Photo Books

Compile your favourite photos with your friend or loved one into a photo book. This keepsake will remind them of all the wonderful memories you’ve shared and how much they mean to you. There are many online services that make creating photo books easy and fun.

6. Surprise Outing

Plan a surprise outing tailored to the interests of the person you’re thanking. It could be a picnic in the park, a visit to a museum, or a hike in nature. Spending quality time together is a great way to show your appreciation.

7. Cook a Special Meal

They say the way to someone’s heart is through their stomach! Cook a special meal for the person you’re thanking. Whether it’s their favourite dish or a new recipe you’ve been wanting to try, sharing a homemade meal is a warm and personal gesture.

8. Plant a Tree

Show how grateful you are to someone and to the planet by planting a tree in their honour. This is a lasting tribute that symbolises growth and life. Many organisations offer tree planting services, or you can plant one in your own garden.

9. Create a Video Message

If you’re comfortable on camera, create a video message expressing your thanks. You can get creative with this—include funny clips, meaningful messages, or even snippets of shared memories. It’s a personal touch that can be watched again and again.

10. Pay It Forward

Sometimes the best way to show you’re grateful is by spreading kindness. Do a good deed in the name of the person you’re thanking. Whether it’s volunteering, donating to a charity they care about, or simply helping someone in need, paying it forward can be a powerful way to show appreciation.

Saying thank you is about making the other person feel appreciated and valued. Whether you choose to write a note, craft a gift, or spend quality time together, your thoughtfulness will shine through. So, get creative and spread some gratitude today!

If you’re interested in exploring pottery as a unique way to say thank you, don’t forget to check out our Ceramics Short Course for more information. Have fun!