THE pancakes will have been ate, the forehead crossed and the Lenten period kicked off. Now I’ll hold my hands up and say I’m not the most religious of folk, wouldn’t be a great attendee of mass and truth be told it’s not something that’s really on my radar currently.

But, and there’s always a but, I still do see the value in lent. Maybe not as it was originally intended but more so as a useful vehicle for change. An opportunity to latch positive decisions onto an existing window that’s been drilled into us for a lifetime. Good old catholic guilt.

Whatever change you’ve been thinking about making I want you to pause for a second and explore if there’s any way of breaking the steps down and if you can somehow make it easier.

Want it to stick? Make it simple.

While many people use Lent to give up certain indulgences, it can also be an opportunity to make a fresh start with your health and fitness.

If you’re looking to improve your health and fitness, here are some ways to leverage Lent as an opportunity to make a fresh start:

1. Set a fitness goal: Use Lent to set a fitness goal such as running a 5k or lifting a certain weight. Make a plan to achieve your goal and stick to it. Find an accountability partner or join a fitness group to help you stay on track.

2. Try a new workout: Shake up your fitness routine by trying a new workout such as yoga, Pilates, or kickboxing. Not only will it keep your workouts interesting, but it can also challenge your body in new ways.

3. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness can help reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Take time during Lent to practice mindfulness through meditation, journaling or breathing exercises. This can help you stay focused on your health and fitness goals.

4. Get enough sleep: Adequate sleep is crucial for good health and fitness. Use Lent as an opportunity to prioritise sleep by setting a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine and avoiding electronic devices before bed.

Any of the above will be a winner, just remember you’re making these changes in the short term so that they’ll stick in the long term!

And if you’re still feeling unsure of what to do, give me a shout. I’m here to help.

I’m working with a number of retired players and giving them the support, accountability and coaching they’ve been lacking to point them in the direction they’ve been struggling to find on their own.

PS, HYROX anyone? That’s for next week’s column.