Patricia Westongives actress Fionnuala Ní Fhlatharta, who plays Berni in TG4's Ros na Rún, a few tips on getting back into shape after having a baby
Do you take regular exercise?
With a newborn baby I'm finding it hard to make as much time as I would like for exercising, but I love going for long walks along the beach front in the evening and I play basketball for a local team in Spiddal. I'm hoping to start back this season, having not played during my pregnancy.
How often do you like to exercise?
I try to walk for at least half an hour every day but I find it harder to motivate myself when the weather is bad. With the basketball there is group training each week and I try to practise in between the training.
Would you consider yourself fit?
Having given birth three months ago, I don't feel I'm at my fittest but I'm getting back into my usual exercise routine, especially now that we're back filming for Ros na Rún.
Have you suffered any serious illnesses or injuries?
A few years ago I snapped my Achilles tendon playing Gaelic football. It was very painful, although not quite as bad as giving birth.
As an actress, do you worry about your appearance?
As an actress, appearance is always important. My character in Ros na Rún, Berni, is quite a glamorous lady so I do feel I need to look the part.
Does exercise play an important part in your life?
For me, exercise is really important for boosting energy and I find it really clears my head. Sometimes I find the hardest part is actually getting started but I find it really rewarding once I get into it.
Watch out for Fionnuala in Ros na Rún on TG4 every Tuesday and Thursday at 8.30pm.
Patricia Weston recommends:
If, like Fionnuala, you've just had a baby, here are some quick tips on how to get fighting fit and back in shape after the birth:
Don't take up a new exercise regime until at least six weeks after the birth of your baby and then check with your GP first before you begin.
Your pelvic floor muscles will have been loosened, so begin by tightening these up. Practise when you're on the toilet by holding and stopping your flow of urine. Do this at least three times each time you go.
Exercise with your baby and take long walks. Make sure you're walking at a moderate to fast pace. You should be out of breath but still able to talk as you walk.
Stop after 20 minutes and squat. Stand facing the buggy with your arms outstretched holding the handle and, with your legs hip distance, slowly bend at the knees and squat for three sets of eight counts. Then pulse for a further eight after each set.
With your baby on his/her back on the floor, get into a box position on all fours. Bend your elbows and press up. Perform three sets of eight. Then straighten out your right leg and raise and lift, then bend the knee and lift out to the side to tone your legs and bum. Perform three sets of eight on each side.
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.