Feargal Quinn, Superquinn grocer and Senator, tells Patricia Weston about his tricks for quelling notions of sedentary existence
Do you take regular exercise?
When I was seven years of age I was listening to the radio with my father. A doctor came on and said people weren't getting enough exercise. He recommended running up and down the stairs instead of walking. That stayed with me and whenever I see stairs I take off running! I think he was right and I do take regular exercise and I'm active throughout the day. I spend a lot of time on the shop floor so I recently made it policy at Superquinn to hold meetings standing up; they're quicker and more active.
What type of exercise do you enjoy?
I play golf with my wife and we walk fast. People say playing golf is not exercising but it is the way we play! We have a sheep dog that gives us plenty of exercise because he takes us for walks!
Do you workout in a gym?
No and I've never joined a gym. I don't need to, I get enough exercise from the little things.
Did you play sport when you were younger?
Yes, I was a keen handball player and I played rugby at school. I also rode horses for 20 years.
What's your attitude to exercise?
It's all in your mind and all about striding not strolling and I consider myself fit. I bought a pedometer while I was in America which counts each step you take. I bought one for all the managers in the shops too so everyone in the company must walk at least five miles a day and then declare it to me each day.
Do you eat a balanced diet?
I eat a lot so I have to exercise to work it off. My wife looks after me and we have five portions of fruit for breakfast and I eat lots of fish, vegetables and wholemeal bread. I must admit I do break out when I'm away from her!
You're a successful grocer and a member of Seanad Éireann, how do you cope with stress?
I've been a member of the Senate for 10 years now and that can lead to a lot of time sitting. As a senator, you can be seduced into a lazy way of life. I'm reasonably good at managing my time so I don't get too stressed.
Patricia Weston recommends:
Desk exercises can keep you energised in a sedentary job.
To work your calf muscles keep both feet together and hip distance apart. Rise up on the balls of your feet, hold for five seconds and release. Repeat eight to 10 times.
Mobilise your spine by holding your hands in front of your chest in prayer position. Gently turn your torso alternating between the right and left side. Repeat six to eight times.
To work your legs, keep your feet together hip distance apart and extend one leg forward at knee level. Hold for five seconds and repeat eight to 10 times on each leg.
If you sit on a chair without wheels, slide your bottom off the seat supported by your hands. Dip your bum towards the floor and back up. Repeat six to eight times to work the tricep muscles at the back of the arms.
Take mini active breaks throughout the day for five minutes every hour by getting up to walk around or run up and down the stairs.
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates instructor.