Q: You mentioned you were an energetic kid. What was that like growing up?
Éabha: Oh, absolutely. I remember family gatherings where I wasn’t allowed to have Diet Coke because even that tiny bit of caffeine would send me through the roof! I had a lot of energy as a kid, so I embraced the things you don’t need talent for—like working hard and always being active. I found my calling in fitness because it gave me an outlet to channel all that energy. Running, for instance, has always been a big one for me.
Q: That’s brilliant! So, running is one of your favourites?
Éabha: Yes, running is definitely number one for me. I love long-distance running because it lets me clear my mind. It’s almost therapeutic. Squatting is another one—I prefer it to Bulgarian split squats, that’s for sure! Recently, I’ve also been getting into the SkiErg. It’s surprisingly fun, it really gets your heart rate up!
Q: If you had to list your top three favourite exercises, what would they be?
Éabha: Number one, running, because it gives you mental clarity and is a great way to get outdoors. Number two, SkiErg—it’s tough, but it works your upper body and really challenges you. And number three, squatting, just because, well, it’s better than Bulgarian split squats!
Q: Let’s talk about your soccer journey. How did that begin?
Éabha: I started playing soccer when I was about four or five, with the boys! It was great, but eventually, I joined a girls’ club when I was around 10 or 11 down in Cork. Shout out to Lakewood! I played for Cork for a few years and then progressed to Cork City in the Women's National League. After that, I headed to Boston College for two years to play soccer while pursuing my education. Then I transferred to the University of Texas to continue playing there. It was an incredible experience, meeting so many amazing players and competing at a high level.
Q: Shifting back to fitness, what’s your take on flexibility, speed, and endurance training?
Éabha: For flexibility, hip openers are key! They’re so important for anything leg-related. For speed, I’d say top speed training is crucial—run as fast as you can, rest, and then repeat. Endurance-wise, interval training is fantastic. Pushing past your limits, resting, and going again really helps build endurance.
Q: Do you have any favourite products that help you with flexibility, speed, and endurance?
Éabha: Definitely! For flexibility, I swear by a good yoga mat—you want to be comfortable while stretching. Foam rollers are also a must, even if people have a love-hate relationship with them! For speed, resistance bands are fantastic for resistance training. I love using a treadmill too, especially with the unpredictable Irish weather. For endurance, a treadmill and the assault bike are great options to really get your heart rate up.
Q: What about strength training? What are your go-to products?
Éabha: Strength training is all about lifting heavy, but more importantly, how you lift the weight matters. I always say focus on the speed—slow down when lowering the weight, and explode on the way up. That’s the key to building strength and explosiveness.
Q: Great advice! Any final tips for aspiring athletes or fitness enthusiasts?
Éabha: Just remember, it’s all about consistency. Whether you’re running, lifting, or working on flexibility, showing up and putting in the effort is what makes the difference in the long run. And have fun with it!
