'I put keeping fit at the top of my priority list'

How many times a week do you like to exercise?  

After a lot of ill health in my life, I put keeping fit at the top of my priority list and attend three classes a week as well as doing my own exercise routine at home three to four times a week. I tend to exercise first thing. I can be at the gym at 6am and back by 7am, so it sets me up for the day ahead without affecting my work hours.  

What sort of exercise do you do? 

At the classes I enjoy the cardiovascular stuff so running, rowing and cycling. I also do weights and strengthening exercises. I have a regular Pilates class and then out of the gym I try and do as much walking as possible.  

Do you have any fitness goals? 

Yes - to keep as fit and healthy as possible. 

What’s the most physically challenging thing you have done in your life? 

I walked the Inca Trail in Peru (a walk at altitude). We walked over 50 miles and at a height of 4,215 metres. I’m so proud of that. 

How does keeping fit impact on your work? 

It is really important… I am able to share my own personal experiences with my patients and it really helps in my practice. 

Which sportsperson/fitness expert do you most admire? 

Before coming to Carnforth, I used to live in Leicester and I’m a huge rugby fan. I was lucky to know some of the 2003 England Rugby World Cup team. Five of the players played for Leicester’s team – The Tigers.  I really admire rugby players. They are all different shapes and sizes and all incredibly physically fit. 

When in your life did you feel at your fittest? 

Right now! I’m 51 and have never felt better.  

On days when you don’t feel like getting out of bed, what motivates you to get up and go?  

My two dogs. It doesn’t matter how I’m feeling they’re up and ready to go out! I have Daisy, a Cavapoo, and Rubie-Roo, a Havanese.  

How do you ensure a work/life balance? 

I try very hard to keep them separate. Not replying to work enquires in the evenings or at weekends and making my free time count: gardening, reading and crafting. Family time is important, even more so since becoming a widow last year. My children and I try to sit and eat supper together at least five times a week. We prepare and cook the meal together and it really is precious time. I have a wonderful network of friends, who are very supportive.  I see two on a regular weekly basis to exercise and walk with and I love planning ahead and having things to look forward – events, meals out, weekends away etc. 

What’s your top tip for remaining motivated? 

Smile.  Think positive thoughts. I’m a firm believer in ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’. It doesn’t do you or anyone around you any good keeping it inside. I try to look for the positive in everything.