The Last Word...

by Chris Widener

Since it's January and everyone is still working hard to keep their New Year's resolutions -- especially in the area of being healthy -- I thought this would be a good Last Word offering. Here's the question:

Q. I know I need to exercise to be healthy and successful. But how does one make time in a day that already seems too short? JC New York, NY, USA

A. Well, there are a couple of issues here. First one has to be very honest and see if they really aren't just making excuses. For example, does your “busy’ day consist of an hour of television? If it does, cut that down, or any other superfluous activity, and get to exercising! Second, if you truly are too busy, then I would suggest one of two things: One would be to build exercise into your routine. For example, if you work on the 10th floor, quit taking the elevator and hit the stairs. Another would be to park at the outer edge of the parking lot instead of circling for 20 minutes looking for that one right next to the door. A second thing you can do is to exercise while working. If you have to read for work, then you can walk on a treadmill and do your reading.

One last option would be to combine a couple of activities. For example, if you have family time on a regular basis, make your family time into family exercise time. Instead of sitting there playing games all of the time, make some of your activities into things like walking, bicycling or some other activity. This way you spend time with those you love and you get your exercise – not to mention, they do too! Above all, talk to your doctor before you start any exercise routine. They will be able to give you great ideas! -- CW