Share the Health!

If you are reading this, there's a good chance you already lead an active, healthy lifestyle (or are at least considering making some real changes). Your lifestyle has put you in the minority. Inactivity and obesity rates throughout America over all age/ethnic/income levels are on the rise. As a fitness-minded American, you can help reverse this alarming trend.

President Bush has led White House staff on 2 mile runs. First Lady Laura Bush also leads a 1.5 mile walk for those not quite ready for the higher intensity run. People don't ignore leadership, they follow it. YOU can have the same impact on your not-so-active friends, family and co-workers.  Think about how good you feel after a training session. Share that feeling of fitness with others.

Here are a few simple ideas to help you get started:

* Ask a sedentary friend/family member if they would like to go for a walk
* Take a child to the park to get some exercise (hit some balls/shoot some baskets/etc...)
* Start a neighboorhood walking/running/cycling club
* Accept and share the Delaware Lt. Governor's Fitness Challenge -- see www.state.de.us/ltgov or call the Division of Public Health at 302-739-4724 for more information.

Keep in mind, that what may be low intensity for you, can be quite challenging for someone that has been inactive. When starting a new exercise program there are some safety tips to remember:

1) Stay Hydrated - Make sure water is convenient during exercise-- And drink it up!
2) Use the "talk test" ... A good level for beginners is that they should still be able to hold a conversation while exercising.
3) If there are any health concerns, check with a medical and/or fitness professional.
4) Fitness training should be progressive. Always err on the side of caution --- Stay safe.  Remember, you want the experience to be positive. If you push someone too far beyond their current ability, they may not want to continue exercise/sport participation. Keep it fun!  It's good for your sport. It's good for health. It's good for America. Share the Health!

It is a matter for users to satisfy themselves as to their medical and physical condition to adopt the information or recommendations made.
Notwithstanding a users medical or physical condition, no responsibility or liability is accepted for any loss or damage suffered by any person as a result of adopting the information or recommendations.