Unlocking the Secrets to Staying Fit: Insights from the Owner of Britain's Top Gym
Ever wondered what it takes to stay in peak shape? Meet Clare Stobart, the mastermind behind CPASE, a gym near Manchester crowned the best in the UK for four consecutive years. With her wealth of experience and passion for fitness, Clare shares her tried-and-true routines and tips to help you achieve your health goals. But here's the kicker: her approach might just challenge everything you thought you knew about fitness.
A Dream Turned Reality
Clare's journey to owning Britain's top gym began over five years ago when she opened CPASE in the picturesque village of Knutsford, Cheshire. This ultra-luxurious gym, known for its cutting-edge equipment, has become a haven for sports stars and celebrities willing to pay £360 a month for its exclusive services. But Clare's love affair with fitness started long before CPASE. From her teenage years, she's been immersed in the world of sports and exercise, working in the fitness industry since she was 16. Her dedication led her to become an instructor, assistant manager, and eventually, a business owner.
The Evolution of a Fitness Guru
Clare's fitness philosophy has evolved over the years, shaped by her experiences and the latest trends. She's tried it all – from toning tables to high-tech recovery treatments. But what's her secret sauce? We sat down with Clare to uncover her personal routines and the workouts she swears by. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the workouts; it's about finding a balance that works for you.
Training Like a Pro
At 46, Clare is in the best shape of her life, thanks to a tailored training regimen. Her core focus? Weight training. Contrary to popular belief, lifting weights isn't just for bodybuilders. It strengthens bones, builds muscle, and boosts metabolism. Clare's weekly routine includes deadlifts, squats, pull-ups, and stretching. But she's also a fan of High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), which has taken her fitness to new heights. After participating in a Hyrox competition, she incorporated HIIT and Hyrox-style training into her routine, doing it one to two times a week.
Controversial Take: The Role of Technology
While many rely on fitness trackers to monitor their progress, Clare has a different perspective. She ditched her aura ring after finding it too obsessive. Is technology helping or hindering our fitness journeys? Share your thoughts in the comments.
The Power of Wellness
Clare's approach to fitness goes beyond physical training. She emphasizes the importance of wellness and recovery, crediting treatments like hyperbaric oxygen therapy, infrared saunas, and cryotherapy for her overall health. Her go-to? The cryosauna, which exposes the body to extreme cold, offering benefits like pain relief, improved muscle strength, and enhanced sports performance. But don't just take her word for it – even Cristiano Ronaldo and Tommy Fury are fans.
Nutrition: Fueling the Body
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in Clare's fitness journey. Her diet is packed with healthy carbs, lean proteins, and supplements like Nad+, which she believes can reverse aging. But she's not afraid to indulge occasionally, proving that moderation is key. Is a strict diet necessary for fitness, or can we allow ourselves some flexibility? Weigh in below.
Final Tips for Your Fitness Journey
As you embark on your health and fitness journey, Clare offers these pearls of wisdom: incorporate wellness and recovery, find an activity you love (like padel, the latest trend sweeping the nation), and don't be afraid to ditch the tracker if it's causing more stress than benefit. And remember, fitness is a holistic journey – it's about feeling amazing, not just looking the part.
Thought-Provoking Question: With the rise of luxury gyms like CPASE, is fitness becoming an exclusive club, or can anyone achieve their health goals without breaking the bank? Let's start a conversation in the comments.