Liz Nolan, Lyric FM presenter, tells Patricia Weston she is happy with her body despite having a weight issue when younger.
How do you keep fit?
I work out in the gym five days a week and I love it. I don't question it anymore - I just do it. It's part of my routine now, like brushing my teeth.
What does your gym routine consist of?
I run for a half an hour on the treadmill and the Stairmaster and I have a personal trainer and we do weights and body sculpting. I've also taken up kickboxing and find it liberating.
Are you happy with how you look?
I have a weight issue because I was overweight when I was younger and my weight fluctuated quite a lot. When I first lost weight I got too thin. Now, at 35, I'm happy with my body and I know how to regulate my weight. My weight would now fluctuate by only 1lb-2lbs.
Do you watch what you eat?
I eat what I like within reason. I wouldn't buy a packet of biscuits because I'd probably eat them all. I like food but I'm very conscious of my intake. I eat small, frequent meals and I make sure I get enough protein.
What's your diet downfall?
I'm a nibbler in front of the TV. I like late-night eating and I'm a divil for eating cereals and crisps in the evening. I also allow myself my favourite treats - like nachos - at the cinema and I abandon the diet at Christmas.
Have you tried any alternative remedies?
I'm an acupuncture fan. It hits you on so many levels. I do it for general wellbeing once a month and I find it releases blockages in my body.
What does exercise mean for you?
I love exercising and I love being physical. I enjoy having a streamlined body and a feeling of strength from being fit.
Liz will present the RTÉ Summer Lunchtime Choice Series of orchestral and vocal favourites in the National Concert Hall every Tuesday from June 6th, broadcast live on RTÉ Lyric FM.
Patricia Weston says:
Liz has some valuable tips on how to tone up, lose weight and stay fit:
Don't have unrealistic goals about losing weight. Take a look at your lifestyle and see how you can realistically fit in a workout.
Be gentle on yourself and don't get angry if you don't succeed. It takes time and there's a huge psychological element involved in changing how you look.
Don't diet, just try to eat healthy food.
Enjoy the feeling you get from using your body as you exercise and strengthen it.
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates teacher.