4 Epic Ways To Make Gozo Your Fitness Buddy.
From lush green valleys to dramatic red sandy beaches, this idyllic isle is the perfect spot to escape the realities of life and get a decent workout too. Gozo Personal trainer Laura Holland, from More Than Movement shares her top tips and locations for getting the most out of the island when it comes to your exercise time.
1. Workout on the sand
Running or walking on sand is a great way to change up your workout and challenge your body more. If youre on Gozo for long enough, you can really raise your fitness. Your muscles will have to work harder to negotiate the different terrain, meaning increased calorie-burn and more worth for your time. The sand will also be less impact on your joints than running or walking on concrete while swapping a hard surface for sand can improve your running technique. Remember you don’t have to run, even a brisk walk on sand is enough to get your heart pumping. Take it easy at first and build up to avoid awkward sand-landings. Head to Ramla for your sandy run or walk and soak up those beautiful beach vibes.
2. Running up that Gozitan hill
Hills, hills, hills, Gozo is blessed with so many of these that we’re spoilt for choice. Start your workout somewhere like the Marsalforn Valley and walk or run to Xaghra, or for even prettier routes try picturesque Dahlet Qorrot, the lovely Lunzjata Valley, or the scenic but deadly San Blas beach hill. The amazing thing about incorporating hills into your workout is yes, they are going to work you way harder. But you don’t have to run, as even walking up a hill can be challenging. This makes them ideal for anyone who needs a lower-impact exercise regime but wants to feel more of a burn. Hills also work your cardiovascular fitness and your strength fitness at the same time as you haul your bodyweight up that hill – that’s two types of fitness in one!
3. it’s A workout, but not as we know it
If beaches and hills are not your thing, there are plenty of other spaces with stunning vistas on Gozo where you can workout alongside its natural charm can distract you from the fact that yes, you are exercising. A nice and quiet spot is Olive Gardens, known locally as Gnien Ta’ Blankas in Xewkija. With views over the Mgarr Ix-Xini countryside valley, here you can exercise under the shade of the olive trees while gazing out across the island. Use the picnic tables or bench seats to tone and strengthen your muscles with moves like press-ups, squats and planks and mountain climbers.
4. stretch it out
There’s nothing like ending your day with a stretch to a beautiful sunset. Head to Dwejra with a fitness mat or towel and before you arrive in the main car park, take the unmade turning on your left towards the tower, where the yellow cliffs are softer and slightly off the tourist trail. If you’re exercising then it’s really important to stretch too, so spend a good 10 minutes stretching out your entire body as the sun kisses goodbye to the day. It’s a good idea to jog or march on the spot for a few minutes first to warm your muscles before you stretch them. Or add your stretch to the end of a run or walk. The sound of the coral sea and the pinks and purples of the sunset will also do a great job of helping you to relax and soothe away your stresses. Try holding your stretches for at least 20 seconds. Follow the video here for Laura’s full-body stretch workout.
Remember to always check with your doctor before a workout regime, take it slow at first, and build up when and where you can, Gozo has plenty of places to do it.
Feeling inspired? For more information on joining the More Than Movement community please visit: Website | Facebook | Instagram
