By Niall McCoy

THE text came through from Pauric – “chat to me Niall.” That’s the thing with these coaches, they seem to have a sixth sense. On my return from Donegal, I hadn’t exactly jumped straight back on the horse. It was one more one foot in the stirrup, the other up on the couch.

But I had an ace in the hole. When Pauric’s text came through I was actually in the gym. Love-15 McCoy.

My start to the Level Up fitness programme has been interrupted by Covid and trips away, so this has been the first sort of block where I have been able to get a run at it. I need that if I am to get going, day on, day off just leads to ultimate off days for me.

Anyway, it may be a small thing to some but it’s massive to me, and that’s that Pauric and Conor’s gym programme developed for me comes with accompanying videos. I always have questions about form, so being able to actually see trained coaches show you where to put your feet etc was reassuring and definitely one of the best bits about online coaching.

I really enjoy weights when I am in training, even if those dumbells are usually featherweight, however the first couple of sessions after a long break always zap me completely. Pauric has been in my ear about getting through that, water, a good night’s sleep – the stretching video I do every morning that he has up in the Facebook group.

Sleeping has definitely been one of the quick rewards from this programme. I’m a bit of an insomniac but I am actively trying to rectify that and have been doing quite well, to be honest. I’m pleased with that.

It’s back to Pauric’s favourite word – habits. Whatever way our training programme goes over the next while, if I have taken a few good habits, such as sleeping, out of it then that’s a good thing. Now, where’s the pillow? I’m zapped after those weights.
For more information on Level Up Online Coaching email info@leveluponlinecoaching.com.

16 April 2001; A spectator during the AIB All-Ireland Senior Club Football Championship Final match between Crossmolina and Nemo Rangers at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Damien EagersSportsfile