The restaurant industry can be physically demanding at times so it’s important to keep in shape to deal with the long hours.
I loved team sports when I was younger, especially hurling, which I played at home in Kildimo, Co Limerick, and I've kept that tradition of fitness up as I've got older. I've been a member of gyms for the past 20 years but it's only in the past few years that I've found something that really works for me.
I started strength and conditioning training and I love it. Initially it was to work through a shoulder injury, but I’ve been training three mornings a week, most weeks, ever since.
I work in a 10-week cycle, setting goals and then reviewing my progress after the 10 weeks is up. My sessions are a mixture of cardio and stretching, push-ups and pulls-up (which I enjoy) and sled work (which I despise).
Thankfully my trainer, Ciaran at FFS Gym, keeps me motivated. Not only does making my way to the gym get me out of bed after a late night in the restaurant, it gives me headspace for the day.
Conor Sexton, owner of Nightmarket Restaurant, Ranelagh.
