Mark: Still Showing Up
For more than 20 years, Mark has made staying active a consistent part of his life. From triathlons and races to weight training and spinning classes, his approach to fitness is built on balance, discipline, and showing up regardless of circumstances. At 53, he continues to train not for perfection, but for health, routine, and long-term wellbeing.
“It’s not all about looking good. It’s about feeling better, staying healthy, and being happy in your own skin.”
Mark’s Story
I’m 53 years old and work with Dublin Bus. Outside of work, I enjoy DIY projects and keeping active in the gym.
I’ve been training on and off for more than 20 years. During that time, I’ve completed triathlons, races, and even taken part in a fight night. While my training style has changed over the years, my commitment to staying active has stayed the same.
These days, my training is a bit simpler. I enjoy lifting weights, attending spinning classes, and staying active on a regular basis. It’s less about chasing performance goals and more about maintaining consistency and feeling good.
For me, fitness has never been about appearance. Staying active helps me manage my weight, keep healthy, and most importantly, feel good day to day. I’ve also found that exercise plays a big role in my mental wellbeing. Even something as simple as going for a walk can improve my mood and help clear my head, especially during more difficult periods in life.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the years is the importance of discipline and balance. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about looking after yourself and making choices that support your long-term health. You can eat well most of the time while still enjoying the occasional takeaway or treat without undoing your progress.
A big part of my routine now is training with my wife once or twice a week. We’ll go to the gym together, lift weights, have a chat, and spend quality time together. It’s something we both enjoy and it’s become an important part of our week.
If I could give one piece of advice to anyone thinking about starting their fitness journey, it would be simple: you can start at any age. Most people in the gym aren’t paying attention to anyone else—they’re focused on their own training. The hardest part is just getting started.
For me, staying active means showing up three or four times a week and finding balance between work, family life, and training. It’s not about looking a certain way. It’s about feeling better, staying healthy, and being confident in your own skin.
I chose PYNT because the gear looks good, feels comfortable, and is great quality. It holds up well through regular training and washing. More than that, I support what the brand stands for, encouraging people of all ages to stay active, stay consistent, and take care of their wellbeing.
Support Charlie & Ronan's Pieta Challenge
Every donation goes directly to Pieta to help provide vital mental health and suicide prevention services across Ireland.