From her first race at nine years old, Victoria Pendleton showed promise, and in 2001, whilst she was still a student, she won one bronze and three silver medals in the British National Track Championships.
The next year she qualified for the England Commonwealth Games Team and after racking up a series of successes on the track, she took gold at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
So if you are looking to get yourself into shape in 2011, who better to offer some advice? And don’t worry; you don’t need to be an Olympic athlete to follow them!
To help get us on the right track, Victoria, in association with Hovis Wholemeal, has come up with a series of realistic and attainable tips that everyone can use.
“I often get asked how I stay motivated,” says Victoria, “but the reality is I struggle just as much as everyone else.
"To help women everywhere, I’ve come up with ‘Victoria’s Secrets’, my top tips to staying on course during this January. It’s not rocket science, just some key pointers that should make it a bit easier!”
Firstly a simple tip; make sure you keep yourself hydrated.
“Often we can mistake feeling dehydrated for feeling hungry. Make sure you drink at least a litre and a half a day. Drinking tea, fruit juice and even eating fruit and vegetables all help provide fluid intake!”
And whilst some of her tips are specific health advice, there are some fun ways to stay motivated too! Victoria believes you should reward all of your efforts; it shouldn’t be a chore.
“Research shows that women can save £600 a year by cutting out unhealthy snacks, so make sure you reward yourself for all your hard work. Buy yourself some new clothes or a bag with the money you’re saving – an incentive will boost your sense of achievement and keep you motivated.”
Don’t go it alone either. Encouraging your friends to join in can have remarkable results.
“A problem shared is a problem solved – apply this theory to your January health kick by rounding up friends.
"Share your goals, worries and achievements to stay on track as well as exercising together and hosting healthy dinner parties.”
You will also be part of a community of women going through the exact same thing this January.
So if you feel inspired to make a change and would like to take advantage of the rest of Victoria’s secrets, watch the following video.
Tagged in Victoria Pendleton