Phil Cawley, Today FM DJ, tells Patricia Weston that he is delighted with his fitness level after scoring 97 per cent in a recent test
Do you take regular exercise?
Yes, every day. I walk my dogs and I have a cross trainer machine at home so there's no excuse. I also do some jogging, although I haven't jogged for about a month.
Would you consider yourself fit?
Yes, I had my fitness levels tested recently and the result came back at 97 per cent. I was delighted!
Have you ever suffered any serious illnesses or injuries?
I had a heel spur last year and I still suffer from it every now and then.
Do you worry about your appearance?
Yes, because when you're over 6ft 2in with a big frame you definitely become more aware of finding clothes to fit and you're also conscious of stooping too much.
Is there anything about your body you'd like to change?
My gut!
Would you ever consider cosmetic surgery?
No, I definitely wouldn't be interested.
Do you eat a balanced diet?
Yes, I eat extremely healthily up to about 7pm. I usually have soup and a sandwich for lunch and I rarely snack during the day. Then when I get home from work in the evenings I'm terrible and I reach straight for the telephone directory for a takeaway.
Ever tried any faddy diets?
No, they slip past me.
What stresses you?
I'm usually fairly laid back but listenership figures are always a reason for anxiety, so I'd have to say the JNLRs.
How do you unwind?
I enjoy a glass of red wine and spending time with my kids. I also jet off on my motorbike whenever I can and put on the tunes.
What's your attitude towards exercise?
It's absolutely essential if you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. But it goes hand in hand with eating properly and taking good care of yourself generally.
Patricia Weston recommends:
Jogging is a high impact, high intensity activity:
If you haven't jogged in a while, begin slowly so you don't fatigue too easily or get injured.
Find a partner to run with to keep each other motivated and ensure you stick to your regime.
Wear bright clothes so you are visible during the cold dark winter months and jog along a familiar well-lit route.
Always warm up before you begin and cool down and perform static stretches afterwards.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water or a sport's drink.
Listen to your body; if it aches or you are tired take a rest.
pweston@eircom.net
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates teacher.
Consult a physician or qualified healthcare provider before embarking on any exercise regime.