Well Together inspiration from ICAS Member Mhairi Sweeney CA
Well Together participant Mhairi Sweeney CA shares her ideas, insights and inspiration for getting outdoors and staying active.
Introduce yourself:
I’m Mhairi Sweeney CA. I live in Inverness and work in tax with MacKenzie Kerr Limited.
How do you like to get outdoors, keep fit and stay active?
I am a keen runner and will be out a few times a week. I’m not fast, I just really enjoy it, and I also enjoy the social side of it (out-with COVID issues). I also swim, both in the pool and in open water, which I love!
Tell us about your favourite place to exercise.
My local area is perfect for me as there are so many nice trails to run on. I get out of the town and see the hills and the views. There are also plenty of lochs for swimming.
What inspires you to get outdoors, keep fit and stay active?
I just really enjoy it, and I’ve made so many friends through running.
How do you fit exercise around your work/family schedule?
I work part-time so I do have a bit of time when my daughter is in school (coronavirus restrictions permitting). I also try and involve her where I can. She will often join me for a wee jog, or will cycle beside me when I am running.
Has the way you exercise changed during COVID-19/lockdown?
I have struggled slightly without having any events to aim for. I would normally do a few 10Ks or half marathons, as well as triathlon and the Highland Cross duathlon. During the first lockdown I signed up for a few virtual challenges to keep me motivated. I was also lucky enough to be able to run the Speyside Way Ultra in November 2020 which was one of the first events to go ahead after the coronavirus outbreak. Who knows what events may or may not happen this year!
Do you have any fitness hints and tips to encourage and inspire others?
I think if you haven’t run before, don’t put your trainers on and go out expecting to run a few miles with no problem. It takes time and your fitness will build up with consistency. Just go and enjoy being outside. I haven’t used it myself but I believe the Couch to 5K programme is very good for beginners.
If lockdown wasn’t a thing, where in the world would you like to go for a run, wheel, walk, cycle or swim?
We visit Spain quite often and I would love to be out running in the sun.
Which ICAS Strava Club are you a member of?
What’s your Strava profile ID should CAs in your area want to follow you?
You can view my Strava profile here.
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