LIFESTYLE Q&A: Frank Nugent,Himalayan mountaineer, author and polar historian

Do you think you have a healthy lifestyle?

I’m sure I have. I’m a life-long mountaineer so you always have to consider what you are eating. Having a healthy lifestyle just comes with what I do.

How often do you exercise?

I run about three or four miles most mornings. There is always the next expedition in the back of your head and you know you’ve got to be fit for it.

It’s a great motivator for keeping you fit so whenever I want to do something, I can just engage straight away. I don’t let myself go out of fitness.

Do you get your five a day?

I do. After I come back from my run, I always have a great breakfast; porridge or muesli with bananas or blueberries on top.

We’d always have fresh vegetables with our meal in the evening.

Do you worry?

I wouldn’t be a worrier as such. I tend to be pragmatic about dealing with stuff.

As a mountaineer, you become a good planner and think about the “what ifs”.

You put things in place to mitigate risk. You’re always looking forward and have a positive approach to challenges.

What do you do to relax?

I love traditional singing and myself and my wife have taken up set dancing, and I love walking and climbing with friends.

What’s your unhealthiest habit?

The downside of the traditional singing sessions is that it keeps you out late and you end up with the odd hangover.

Last year I was very much into following the Dubs and I had one great two-day hangover after that.

For guides to way-marked walks in Co Laois visit everytrail.com/guide/durrow-guides