We Talk Motivation & Activewear With Lindsay Somers

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There’s something about sunshine and warm weather that inspires us to make healthier choices and be more active – but sometimes we just don’t know where to start. If you’re feeling the same way, we can’t think of a better person to get us all motivated than the lovely Lindsay Somers. Lindsay is a lifestyle health coach here in Winnipeg who strives to make exercise accessible, social, and most importantly, fun. We had the pleasure of sitting down with her to get insight into her everyday lifestyle, and pick her brain about diet, activewear, exercise, and her top goal-setting tips.

Q. Where did your passion for fitness originate?

I would say I have a passion for playing! I like going out, exploring, and having fun. I’m also incredibly social, so spending time with people and connecting over walks, runs, and bike rides is my favourite way to spend time. I grew up in an active family – family walks and bike rides after dinner was how life was lived. We spent time together through activity, and this has been a fundamental building block of who I am today.

Q. What does being healthy mean to you?

Being healthy means having the energy, confidence, and engagement to live the life you want to live. It has nothing to do with weight or size. My health is measured in my ability to  go cross country skiing with friends, and also drink wine and eat cheese. Or, take an endless summer bike ride around the city, stopping in random Winnipeg parks for frisbee and picnic lunches. I make choices to have a lifestyle so that I can move frequently and with people I love.

Q. What motivational tips would you give someone who is looking to change their lifestyle?

First of all, be kind to yourself. Stop saying “I’m not sporty” or “I hate running.” You believe what you tell yourself. Tell yourself, “I’m going to try this for 30 days.”

Start small. Start by adding something specific, and think about adding to your life, not taking away.  Instead of “no more junk food,” start with, “I will have a salad with every dinner.” Or instead of “I’m going to start exercising,” make it specific: “I’m going to go for a 30 minute walk every day.”

Then, write it down and put it on your fridge, by your computer at work, or on your Facebook wall. Make a public commitment to yourself. You can do it!

Then, 30 days later, ADD something else. It’s all about building healthy habits that naturally just become your lifestyle.

Q. How do you manage to eat healthy throughout the week?

I focus on eating whole, simple one-ingredient foods – things that aren’t packaged. As a kid, anytime we were hungry the snack was a fruit or vegetable, and I still abide by that. I love the 80/20 rule: 80% of the time eat well; 20% of the time eat that burger at the beach.

I also think it’s important to listen to your body. Eat when you’re hungry, and stop when you’re full.

Q. Where are your favourite places to get active outdoors in Winnipeg?

I love riding my bike all over the city in summer, exploring all the active transportation routes and discovering new neighbourhoods. I’ll often stop and relax in Assiniboine Park or at The Forks, and I’m known to pop-in at random pal’s places, too! In winter, I LOVE skating to work along the river. I love my downtown/The Forks/St. Boniface running loop, too. It showcases all of our city’s best architecture. 

Q. Any must-have pieces for spring/summer?

Right now, I’m totally into jogger pants. I love the elastic bottoms – it feels urban, sporty, and stylish at the same time. I also love a good running zip-up with zipper pockets for keys!

I also have a thing for jumpsuits, and am currently obsessed with anything floral. Oh, and dangly earrings!

Thanks to Lindsay for chatting with us – we can’t wait to take a page out of her book by getting out and staying active around the city this summer! You can follow Lindsay on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter for more health and wellness tips!

Visit these St. Vital Centre retailers to shop the looks in this post (check stores for availability):

Joggers

White cami: RW&Co., $24.90
Loose pink shortsleeve mesh top: Garage, $19.95
Grey jogger: Boathouse (Rebel Rogue), $44
Linen blazer: Le Chateau, $99.95
Beige strappy stiletto: Hudson's Bay, $50

Jumpsuit

Black backless jumpsuit: Boathouse, $54
Floral pump with strap: Aldo, $90
Tassel earrings: Le Chateau, $12.95
Pink clutch: Aldo, $45

Tie-dye Leggings

Sports bra: Boathouse, $40
Tie-dye legging: Boathouse, $65
Black athletic jacket: Reitmans, $49.40
Purple runners: Sport Chek (Nike), $139.99
Purple water bottle: Sport Chek, $14.99

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