Presenter Laura Woods tells Patricia Weston of her new love for tag rugby. Despite being pretty awful at it, she is slowly improving
Are you fit?
I used to be really sporty in school and college and I enjoyed swimming, dancing, the gym and tennis. But over the past few years since I started working full-time I've let my entire good exercise habits lapse. I recently finished a yoga course but came out of it miserable because I found out just how unfit and inflexible I am.
Have you gym membership?
Well, I'm a member of the RTÉ gym which has just been renovated and looks great. Unfortunately, I usually tend to skulk past and head up to the restaurant.
Are you doing anything to keep fit and healthy?
I started playing tag rugby three weeks ago. A bunch of school friends got together and formed a team. We drafted in a few of the boyfriends too as it's mixed tag. I love it but it's terrifying. The blokes forget we've never played before so they run at us like bulls. I just try to get rid of the ball as quickly as I can. Suffice to say we're pretty awful, but slowly improving!
What's your diet like?
. I try my best to eat healthily as I can really feel the difference in my energy levels when I binge on junk food. I'll make a proper dinner four times a week, or when I've had a week of bad eating I'll head back to my Mum's where I know she'll spoil me and make me eat properly.
Have you any bad eating habits?
Yes, I like junk food and chocolate. I'm a chocoholic but I can't eat it when the weather is warm so I'm praying for a hot summer.
Would you have cosmetic surgery?
I'm only 28 so it's not something I've considered yet. I'm not morally against it but I've read articles and seen programmes on surgery gone wrong and that really scares me. Mind you, when I'm 50 I may overlook the fear factor.
Have you a fit role model?
Yes, my parents are very healthy and look great. They both have loads of energy and have always been into their exercise.
Patricia Weston says:
According to the Irish Tag Rugby Association (ITRA): "Tag rugby is primarily about running and passing. It is a seven-a-side, 12-on-a-squad, non-contact sport played on a grass pitch, roughly half the size of a normal rugby pitch. The aim is to score a try without being "tagged" by an opponent.
The referee calls a "tag" if an opposing player grabs one of two Velcro strips attached to special tag shorts. People of all ages and fitness levels can play, unlike rugby union. It improves agility and speed and is good for hand-to-eye co-ordination."
For more information on the sport visit: www.tagrugby.ie
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates teacher.