As anyone who follows Peter Stringer on Instagram will know, the recently-retired Munster and Ireland scrumhalf is in impeccable shape. Stringer regularly uploads videos from the gym, sharing tips on lifting weights and getting the body to peak physical condition.
When we sat down with Peter for the Dyson 'Clear The Air' video session, Peter passed on four tips for maintaining top personal fitness.
Peter's fitness tips are as follows:
- Eat well - you could spend 3 hours a day in the gym and it would all be for nought if you're eating an unhealthy diet. Proper fitness begins with a proper diet. Counting calories can be a daunting task but it's a great way to keep track of what you're eating and really helps with achieving your goals in the gym. If counting calories isn't your thing, than a good first step to make would be to eat more fruits and vegetables and cut down on sugary foods. Instead of a chocolate bar or packet of crisps, have an apple or a banana. Dropping your portion size by a third and adding a side salad can also be a great way to drop your calories without being too hard on yourself.
- Improve your lifting technique - it's not how much weight you can lift, it's how you lift the weight. Technique is half the battle when you're in the gym, as lifting weights the right way can stave off injury. Exercises such as deadlifts and squats are all about technique and, if done incorrectly, can cause long term damage. It's important to talk to a personal trainer in your gym and learn the correct way to lift weights, or else you put yourself in serious risk of injury.
- Stretch and loosen up before exercising - have your body fully ready before a gym session. Stretch the muscles and get your heart rate up so that your body is fully ready for a serious workout. Dynamic stretching, such as high kicks and jump squats, can be very effective once done correctly, taking your body through ranges of motion that will better prepare you for your workout or sporting activity. And remember, don't forget to stretch your back! Exercises like deadlifts can put huge pressure on your lower back so it's important to stretch it before you start to lift.
Peter also mentions the importance of controlling the air pollution within your home. With a Dyson purifying fan you can project purified air through a room and breathe clean air on the homefront.
Want to clear the air? Dyson purifying fans sense and capture pollution, then project purified air throughout your whole room. With the Dyson link app, you can control your indoor environment at any time. . Visit Dyson.ie for more information.
