Dr. George L. Dixon - "Talking Fitness"

You do not have to be a fitness "nut" to be healthy. You get healthy first and then reach fitness by being active. Increasing activity produces a higher level of both. The benefits include lowering the risk of heart disease, non-insulin dependent diabetes, colon cancer, high blood pressure and osteoporosis.

Vigorously active people at any age should continue doing just that. Gain vitality by simply increasing your body motions in, say, a 10-minute walk, gardening, bicycling, (indoors or out), washing your car, mopping, chopping wood, vacuuming, and yard care. Walk to the store or park a little way away and walk. Do 15-20 minutes of activities several times each day.

In measuring health, the big difference is between the sedentary and the moderately active person. Highly active persons accrue only a few extra benefits.

Home exercise is as effective as structured club programs and the motivation to continue is higher! However, you may find it easier to start in clubs or enjoy the stimulation of the social groups there.

Marlene Adrian, Professor of Kinesiology, advises in Shape Magazine that you choose activities to suit your personality. If you enjoy quiet, don’t feel compelled to join a crowded gym or organized classes. If you like company, go for it at your nearby health club. Fifty n’ Fit is only for folks over 50. Most senior centers have health and fitness programs at minimal or no cost.

Your mind responds to mental work too, such a reading, classes, cultivating a hobby, games, traveling. The OASIS programs around the country is a grand example of the "University of the Third Age".

Dr. Walter M. Bortz, former president of the American Geriatric Society says, "There is no drug in current or prospective use that holds as much promise for sustained health as a life program of physical exercise."

One final consideration: your activities should improve your psychological well-being. It should make you feel good about yourself, not discouraged or klutzy.

Aging gracefully is a fine idea, but add "vigorously," too. Think of the friends you consider beautiful. They are usually vital, vigorous people. So, stand up, shoulders back, neck long, smile. Cut down the fat in your diet. Keep that wonderful body doing what it is meant to do.

More help is available in "Exercise a la Carte", here, at your bookstore or call 800-624-4952.