Gearoid Corcoran, Smart Telecom Escort of the Year for the Rose of Tralee Festival, tellsPatricia Weston that his regular games of football kept him fit during the hectic festival week
Are you an exerciser?
Yes, I exercise regularly. I go to the gym about three times a week and try to get in a few games of rugby and football. In the gym I concentrate mostly on running and weights.
I also play rugby with my college, UCC, during the year and I'm also involved with a Tag-Rugby team during the summer. It's mixed Tag-Rugby so both men and women play and it's really great craic.
What's your favourite activity?
I just love kicking a football around a pitch with the lads. I think that probably keeps me fitter than the gym does.
Even at the Rose of Tralee last year, I was always at the other escorts to go out for a quick game of footie in the local park. It was a great way of getting some fresh air and exercise during what is otherwise a very hectic week.
Are there any exercises you'd like to try?
Not really. The one exercise I won't do is long-distance running. I just find it incredibly boring and I don't have the patience for it.
Are you a healthy eater?
I have to confess that I'm not a very healthy eater. I have a good metabolism and don't really have to watch what I eat. I escorted the Waterford Rose last year and she was always amazed that I could eat so much food without putting on any weight.
What foods do you love to eat then?
I'll eat absolutely anything! I just demolish whatever is put in front of me and I love the odd takeaway, especially Chinese or a heap of fish and chips, they're finger-licking good!
Do you smoke or drink?
I don't smoke. It's a habit I just can't stand. I'm very partial to the odd pint, though, but who isn't!
Is there anything about your body you'd like to change?
I'd love to be a bit taller. I'm 5ft 8in and have always wanted to be a couple of inches taller. But I'm philosophical and know there isn't a whole lot I can do about it, so it really doesn't bother me too much.
What's your attitude to exercise?
I like it but I find that I can't do it on my own. I always prefer to have company as it gives me much more motivation. I always feel a lot better after going to the gym and that's the main reason why I go.
Patricia Weston recommends:
Exercising with a friend is a great way to keep motivated. Here are a few more motivation tips to keep you working out:
Keep a daily journal of all the activities you do to track your progress each week.
Remind yourself frequently why you are working out. Is it to get fit, lose weight or just stay healthy?
Once you get past the three-week mark your exercise routine should become part of your lifestyle and you'll have a better chance of sticking to it.
Don't fret if you miss a day or two, get back into it and start again with renewed gusto.
Visualise a healthier, fitter or slimmer you. When you see yourself as that person you're more likely to become that person.
Write down how you feel before and after each workout so you see how good you feel post exercise.
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates teacher.
pweston@eircom.net
Consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider before embarking on any exercise regime and stop exercising if you feel nauseous or dizzy.