Fit Bits: Cambridge's OptiMum shares her workout tips

Welcome to our new column where different fitness pros reveal their go-to-workouts, energy-boosting snacks and guilty treats! First up is Nikki Baring of Cambridge-based OptiMum Health and Fitness for Women

My fitness story

I first started working as a personal trainer in 2000 in London. I had a break for a few years to work as a PE teacher, but after having my own children and struggling with movement postnatally decided to go back into fitness and specialise in core and pelvic floor health. I retrained in pre/postnatal fitness and became a Holistic Core Restore® Coach.

What I do

I work with a range of women in all life phases from pregnancy to post menopause. I teach fitness classes, Barre, pelvic health courses, run retreats, work 1:1 and am a sports massage therapist who is qualified to work with abdominal scars.

I see my role in the fitness industry as supporting women to feel confident in their bodies and to find joy in movement. Whether that is to keep them strong and mobile pre and postnatally, or to assist them with their pelvic floor and core health at any life stage.

I am based at my home studio in Girton, but also teach in the community at Storey’s Field Centre in Eddington.

What I love about my job

Getting to know and meet amazing individuals. Also, the immense joy of seeing someone gain confidence in their body to do more of what they love.

My go-to quick workout

Barre is my favoured way to move so I would normally do a quick 20-to-25-minute blast. Otherwise, weight training or a resistance-based workout. A simple circuit of squats, lunges, press ups, bent over row, deadlift, shoulder press and bridges make me happy.

My favourite feel-good long workout

I would also steer towards Barre again. For me it has the right mix of challenging strength, balance, flexibility and cardio fitness, and all to music, which I find motivating. Coming from a dance background it feels good in my body. Walking is also a winner for me.

Favourite energy-boosting food

I do enjoy an energy ball. My current favourite recipe includes dates, peanut butter, cacao, oats, chia seeds and dark chocolate chips. I also love a Buddha bowl.

My indulgent treat food

Anything chocolate based. Ombar chocolate is bliss!

How I relax

Seeing friends, breath work, watching a movie with my kids and husband. My favourite place to be in Cambridgeshire for switching off is outdoor bathing haven, PAUS, in Bourn. A little slice of relaxation heaven.

Top tip for anyone who needs motivating to start exercise

Start small and move in a way you enjoy, be it walking, cycling, dancing or gardening. The better it feels for you the more inclined you are to create a habit.

Find out more about OptiMum at optimumpersonaltraining.com