Join us as we delve into the world of health and wellness with the team at Collective Fitness.

The close knit founding team at Collective Fitness is made up of Conor Corcoran, Jack McGrath and James Norton. You may recognise Conor (pictured above), the resident Hali trainer. He brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in strength and conditioning and sports rehabilitation. He has worked with sports teams ranging from the British and Irish Lions to Arsenal FC and Meath GAA, and previously owned the Camden Sports Clinic.

Conor is joined by Jack McGrath, former professional rugby player who is no stranger to high-performance cultures and has an impressive track record of success. Jack has played with the British and Irish Lions, Ireland, Ulster, Leinster and St Mary’s College RFC giving him unmatched experience and expertise to share.

James Norton completes the trio, a former professional athlete, he founded The Punnet Healthstore, a business that emphasises the power of nutrition to fuel the body and mind. His experience working with Ireland 7s, Leinster Rugby, and St Mary’s College RFC gives him a unique perspective on nutrition.

They believe wellness should be accessible to everyone, no matter their background or lifestyle, and are dedicated to helping you reach your goals in a safe and sustainable way.

Join us as we delve into the world of fitness with Conor, and where we should look to start.

For beginners, where should we start?

If you’re just starting out on your fitness journey, it can be a little overwhelming. Start with a basic workout routine that targets all major muscle groups. It’s essential to focus on proper form and gradually increase the weight and intensity over time. This way, you’ll build a solid foundation for your goals. Try joining my class on Saturday mornings in the Wellness Suite to start your journey in a safe and fun environment.

How long is too long to spend in the gym?

Most people can achieve a good workout in 45 minutes or less. It’s important to always remember that quality trumps quantity. Regardless of duration, focusing on proper form and intensity makes all the difference. Ultimately, it’s all about finding the right balance that works for you and your goals.

What does a typical week of exercise look like and how can we build on it?

It’s important to strike a healthy balance between strength, cardio, and rest days. A typical week might include a mix of these, which can help to prevent boredom and plateaus while also challenging your body in different ways. Remember, consistency is key, so finding a routine that you enjoy and can stick to is crucial for long-term success.

What are the benefits of strength and cardio training?

Both offer unique benefits and it’s important to include a mix in your routine for maximum results. Weight training helps to build muscle, which increases your metabolism, burning calories even while resting. On the other hand, cardio is great for improving cardiovascular health, burning calories, and increasing endurance. It’s important to incorporate both types of exercise into your routine for maximum results. A combination of the two will help you to achieve a balance of strength, endurance and overall health.

Can you share your tips for staying motivated?

Setting realistic goals, tracking progress, and celebrating achievements are all great ways to stay motivated. By setting goals and tracking progress, you can see how far you’ve come, which can help stay motivated and focused. It’s also helpful to find a workout buddy or join a fitness group. Having a support system can help you stay accountable, and working out with others can make exercise more enjoyable. Find what works for you and keep pushing yourself to reach new heights.

We know you run the complimentary Hali fitness classes on a Saturday morning, but what else do Collective Fitness offer?

We offer two tailored fitness plans which take a personalised approach to help all of our clients achieve their fitness goals. Our holistic approach ensures that no aspect of your fitness is left unturned, and your true potential is brought out. Whether you’re just starting out, or looking to take your fitness to the next level, we have a plan that’s right for you. For more information visit collectivefitness.ie.

Hali residents can enjoy 20% off all training plans, and 10% off in The Punnet Healthstore in Glasthule (please visit the Management Suite for discount cards). Follow @collectivefitness or visit collectivefitness.ie for more information.