Mary Kennedy, presenter of RTÉ's Open House, tells Patricia Weston of her marathon plans.
Do you take any regular exercise? Yes, I run. I'm training for the Aer Arann marathon on April 3rd. It's a half marathon, 13 miles, in aid of the Medical Residential Centre in Crumlin.
How many times per week? I run four times a week for up to six miles, that takes around 45 minutes. I love it. I find it very relaxing. It's the only exercise I can do and it's all I can fit in with a heavy work schedule. I run during the week in the evenings. I find it's great for the mind and the body. I run in all weathers, in fact I love the weather. I love running in the rain.
Ever joined a gym? No, I don't like to exercise indoors because I like the weather too much. I did workout in a gym for about three months after the birth of my baby.
Do you do any other activities? I like walking during the summer. I love walking in the mountains it's so therapeutic. I find islands and mountains therapeutic and serene. I've considered taking up yoga but I never have the time.
Ever sustained any sports injuries? Surprisingly no. I've run two marathons and been running since I was in school and ran in the athletics society in UCD. I don't run fast, I'm more relaxed about my running. I run from the front door of my house, which is 80 per cent grass, and have been lucky not to sustain any injuries.
Any tips for beginners who want to run? I'd recommend anyone take up running, practically anyone can do it if you start out slowly. My daughter runs with me and she's surprised herself by starting out running for five minutes, then building it up to 30 minutes. It's a great sense of achievement. It's also a great way of clearing your head and you feel so much more positive after a run. You should wear proper running shoes.
Do you eat a balanced diet? I drink three litres of water a day. I'm slightly health conscious but I'm not fanatical. I don't eat deserts but I enjoy food and wine. I think once you've got balance in your life, you don't need to diet.
Do you worry about your appearance? No, I don't exercise for appearance sake, I do it for pure enjoyment.
Would you ever consider cosmetic surgery? I've a big problem with surgery. I think it perpetuates an ageist mentality. Every stage of life has a purpose, a value and is a joy. You shouldn't be racing to get ahead of any stage or trying to erase any stage.
Mary's novel Paper Tigers, A Memoir is published by Merlin.
Patricia Weston recommends:
To start running you should walk briskly first. Invest in a good pair of running shoes. Unlike all-round training shoes, runners are designed to allow your foot strike the ground properly to reduce the shock that travels up your leg. They should also fit your foot snugly to reduce the slipping that can lead to blisters.
Three to four times a week walk briskly for up to 30 minutes. Make sure you warm up and cool down before and after for 10 minutes by walking at a slower pace.
Stretch at the end of your routine.
Once you can walk briskly for 30 minutes in week one, you can begin jogging for two-three minutes during the 30-minute session in week two until you build up to running continuously for 25-30 minutes, this should take six to eight weeks.
Run on soft ground rather than tarmac to reduce impact on joints and prevent injury.
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates instructor.
Always make sure you consult your GP before embarking on any exercise regime. Stop exercising if you feel nauseous or dizzy.