Our goal is to increase the number of people who are physically fit, feel better in many ways, and who can say with conviction Fit ’m I! We continue to build on the experience in our voluntary, no-cost fitness program over the past few years. We continue to listen to those using the program and introducing new ideas to improve the effectiveness of our program. Because of this, there are changes in the program this year. If you are familiar with what we have done in the past, you may want to read about what is new for this year, and if you are looking at us for the first time, please continue reading.

Two questions naturally come to mind: Why and How. First, the why: Many sources remind us that as a population we are not physically as active as we ought to be, and that because of that, diseases abound that are largely avoidable with adequate physical activity. A good source for this is the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, regarding Healthy Living and Physical Activity, a gold mine for information on this topic. In essence - for good health, we all need some exercise, at least 30 minutes, 5 times per week - it need not be intensive; a brisk walk is about right. Regularity is more important than intensity, and more is better as you get used to it, gradually increase the time, and maybe add a day, occasionally. Don’t be concerned with increasing the intensity - if you develop a habit of exercise, you will naturally do more. Remember to listen to your body, take your time, don’t rush, and avoid injuries by giving your body a rest now and then!

And now, the how: after registering, we are able to enter the number or minutes of physical activity. We may do it every day, or download a tracking sheet. If you do not have time to do 30 minutes, it is OK to do it in 10-minute increments. The physical activity should be one of your choice - may be a sport or other exercise of your choice, but may also include useful tasks such a lawn mowing or other useful activity that involves moving - should be equal in intensity to a brisk walk.

This may be very familiar to you. Our hope is, though, that for many of you this is a new experience, and that you will find our program and tools to be an effective way to become more fit. We especially welcome you, and we hope that as you get used to the program, you will let us know how our program works for you.

Copyright 2008

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