We have concluded Session I with 942 registered, of whom 786 recorded activity data (83.43%). This percentage was much higher than in 2007, which never got above about 67%. We have the impression that the participants this year have a greater commitment to being regularly active. Amazingly, the average length of activity is about the same - 64 minutes 13 seconds vs. 63 minutes 50 seconds in 2007 (longer by 0.59%)! Of course, comparisons are not truly valid - Session I was eight weeks, while Fit 2007 was six months.

The change from a six month program to one of three eight-week sessions was to make it easier for a participant to fulfill the commitment made to oneself. Fulfilling a six month commitment may not be practical, too many things may happen beyond one's control; an eight week commitment, on the other hand, may be possible and require fewer adjustments. And, then, having completed one session, maybe it is possible after a break, to go back for another session? - that is our hope.

Our webmaster will be publishing statistical data on participants and activity levels that I am sure you will all find interesting. We do this, because we believe that we all share a sense of belonging to a unique group, even if we do not know many of the participants, and are interested in what we all, together, accomplish. Certainly, we all share a sense of accomplishment - won't you send in some comments? - do it by July 20, 2008.

Allow me to tell you about my personal goal for Fit MI 2008. On October 18 there is the Grand Rapids Marathon - walkers are welcome. And, if the full marathon 26.2 miles are more than one can do, there is the half marathon. In 2007 my half marathon time was 3:39:08 (16:43 per mile). This year I hope to do it in 3:15 (just under 15 minutes per mile) - and, if I am diligent in what I do between now and then, could I do the full marathon?

On July 5, my timed regular morning walk was slow (1 hour 25 minutes), but the day after, for some reason the time was the best ever (1:09) - maybe I just was rested? For hours after I felt what I describe as sinfully good! - you know the feeling?

I will ask our webmaster to allow me to post progress reports each mid-month!

Copyright 2008

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