Catherine Fulvio, proprietor and master chef at Ballyknocken House and Cookery School in Wicklow, tells Patricia Westonhow she tries to incorporate exercise into her family life.
Do you take any regular exercise?
Not as regular as I would like. I take long walks whenever I get the chance and I have worked with a personal trainer in the past, but I found it difficult allocating the time. However, I am fortunate in that our home and business back onto the lovely Carrick Forest. I regularly hike in the forest and climb Carrick Mountain. I find it refreshing and some of my better ideas have struck me while hiking.
Also, I have worn a pedometer and was most surprised to learn that I clock up at least 5km when teaching cookery classes. Who would have thought that cooking could keep you fit?
Do you worry about your appearance?
I wouldn't say I worry about my appearance but I am very aware of it. I need to make sure that I look the part when hosting my classes in the cookery school.
My hair needs to be neat and tidy and I feel it's important for me to look healthy too. At the moment, I have a regular slot on Ireland AM on TV3 and television can be very unkind, especially so early in the morning, so I do try to look after my appearance.
Is there anything about your body you would like to change?
I would love to have longer legs. I always seem to need the ingredient that's on the top shelf.
Would you ever consider cosmetic surgery?
No, but ask me again in 10 years.
Do you eat a balanced diet?
Yes, I would like to think I eat a balanced diet most of the time. Of course, I have my moments of weakness but in general I'm pretty good. I also have two young children, so I am conscious of preparing healthy, balanced family meals.
Have you ever tried any faddy diets?
Yes, years ago I tried the cabbage diet. I still have trouble enjoying cabbage to this day, and I can't even say that the diet was a success.
Do you use alternative remedies?
Oh yes, and I love using my herb garden to make up some great herbal spa treatments.
What's your attitude to exercise?
I really enjoy exercise, especially out in the open air. This year, I entered the Mini Marathon in Dublin, which was hugely enjoyable. I also felt that it gave me a goal to reach my desired fitness level. I plan on participating on an annual basis, in addition to my usual mountain hikes. I also purchased a new bicycle so that I can cycle with my children. I believe it is really important to teach children the habit of regular exercise as early in their lives as possible.
Patricia Weston recommends:
Teaching children the habit of regular exercise early on in their lives is a terrific idea. Here are a few tips to help motivate your children to move more:
•As a parent, embrace a healthy active lifestyle yourself to be a positive role model for your children.
•Encourage children to partake in active after-school activities, so that they regularly exercise.
•Encourage your children to help out with the active chores around the house, such as light gardening, walking the dog or light housework.
•Take family exercise, go for walks in the park to play Frisbee or fly a kite or cycle together and make exercise a regular part of your family life.
•Purchase fun, active toys for your kids, such as a trampoline, skipping ropes, skateboards, basketball nets, pogo sticks or inline skates.
Patricia Weston is an NCEHS fitness instructor, personal trainer and Pilates teacher.