Tommy Fleming, singer-songwriter, tells Patricia Westonhe loves to exercise but prefers the beach to the gym
Do you take regular exercise?
Well, I try to. I love anything to do with the beach whether it's running, surfing or swimming. I try to exercise at least three times a week and more when I can.
Are you fit?
No, not really, I just love to exercise, as it's the only thing I enjoy when I'm not on tour. There's no place more relaxing than on a beach in hot or cold weather. It's much cheaper than gym fees.
Have you ever suffered from a serious illness or injury?
Yes, I broke my neck in a car accident and it was a long road to recovery but thankfully I'm now back to full health.
My career was in serious jeopardy and it took years to build it back up. I've had lots of minor injuries such as broken arms and ribs but these seem insignificant when you're talking about your neck.
Are you conscious about how you look?
When you're on stage it's important to look and present yourself well. Looking well is a part of performing, and appearance means a lot in this industry.
Is there anything about your body you'd like to change?
Ten years ago I would have liked to change about 50 things about my body but as you get older you learn to accept yourself physically and mentally, which is much healthier and happier.
Have you ever gone on a diet?
Yes, I tried the Atkins diet and it worked great, but I don't stick to it now.
Do you use alternative remedies?
Yes, I love reflexology and I find massages great for an aching back after a busy schedule.
What does exercise mean to you?
It's a must to keep me focused and I feel so much better after a swim in the sea or a run on the beach.
Tommy has a new album out called A Life like Mine and he will be performing at the INEC, Killarney, on Saturday, December 16th.
Patricia Weston's exercise prescription:
Tommy sometimes finds himself suffering from an aching back after a busy schedule.
Back pain is a common complaint. Over-exercise, tiredness, poor posture, sitting on the wrong chair or lying on the wrong mattress can trigger back pain.
Try these common sense tips to get relief from sore back muscles:
It's a common myth that lying on your back will help alleviate back pain, but this can stiffen and even weaken the muscles.
Keep moving and work the muscles instead to strengthen them by doing gentle exercise such as walking or swimming.
Ensure you have a good mattress on your bed and a supportive chair at your desk.
Regularly check your posture when you are seated or standing for any length of time. Stretch your arms over your head, in front of you and behind and perform pelvic tilts when seated.
Work your abdominal muscles. This will help support your weak back muscles and improve your posture.
Avoid wearing high heels and lose those extra pounds if you are overweight.
Protect your back by keeping fit, lifting properly, ensuring your workspace is posture friendly and getting regular, relaxing massages to unwind and loosen out your muscles.
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 and stop exercising if you feel nauseous or dizzy.