Missing the gym?

Same here. Summer is on the way, and while daily walks and online classes have been keeping us going, the new season has us craving to get some real gym workouts in. The good news? Irish sports store McSport has just brought out two new fitness kits to help us all get our fitness game on at home – and we love how they literally contain everything you need to get started right away. The first one is the Hit Fitness Cast Iron Kettlebell Set, which contains three cast iron kettlebells; 8kg, 10kg and 12kg. “The kettlebell is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment,” explains Hit Fitness Ireland Brand Trainer Nathalie Lennon. “Kettlebell training improves core strength and stability. We often need a variety of weights to ensure we are providing our bodies with just enough load to progress over time. Having three weights will allow you to progress far more easily than having just one, as well as providing you with that heavier weight when you need it. The second set – and our favourite – is the Hit Fitness Circuit Training Pack, a compact, yet complete strength and conditioning kit containing everything you need to get started on your fitness goals. The set has been put together to give you the ability to complete a thorough training session without the need for more equipment and includes a studio mat, 10kg cast iron kettlebell, a pair of 7kg rubber studio dumbbells, and a balance board. “The Fitness Mat is your base,” says Lennon. “Having a comfortable and supportive mat is important for ground-based exercises such as core work and for stretching post-workout" Then, about the other components of the kit, she explains: "The kettlebell allows for the inclusion of exercises with greater power and functionality. Next are your dumbbells, which are a must-have for every home set-up. The options of exercises using these is endless. Lastly, balance is often an aspect of fitness we tend to forget to work on. It’s very important to improve core strength and stability and to aid injury prevention. Ankle stabilisation movements on the balance board are a fantastic prehab exercise for runners – such as simple forward/backward tilts, single leg balancing, single foot tilts, and balance board squats.” To ensure you get the most out of your new fitness pack, head over to McSport’s Instagram @mcsportireland where Lennon has shared her top tips for using each piece of equipment.