Health tips

E-Mail

Comments (0)

Text Size:

tool goes here

DON'T GO IT ALONE -- Shortly after I retired from teaching, I joined a health club. The club was very close to my home, so I believed I would be motivated to exercise regularly on my own. Well, I was wrong. My exercise routine lasted a very short time, but I was committed to a two-year contract, so I paid and never took advantage of my membership.

At the end of my contract, I went over to cancel the membership. When I finished my sad story of my lack of discipline and commitment, the manager, Johnny Steven, pitched me a deal. He said he would forego my fees for three months if, during that time, I would attend a group fitness class.

This guy is smart and really knows his stuff, because group exercise is exactly what I needed. It gave me the accountability and the social aspect in addition to great aerobic and toning workouts. I have been a faithful member of this class for the past three years and have no plans to quit ever! -- Sydney McPeak, Wichita, Kan.

WATCH YOUR FOOD CHOICES -- Never eat anything that has a face or a mother! This advice has helped me to eat much less meat and many more fruits and vegetables. -- Joe Stout, Wichita, Kan.

A VEGETABLE FAN -- I heard this piece of advice from TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) retreat leader Teri Ord: Vegetables didn't make us fat.

That lets me know that eating vegetables is OK when I am struggling to stay away from other foods. It gives me permission to eat more while making a food choice that is good for me. Vegetables are low in calories, full of nutrition and filling because of the fiber. Plus, the crunch of fresh veggies is really satisfying. -- Linda Shane, Wichita, Kan.

HUNGRY OR THIRSTY? -- Drink a glass of water when you feel hungry. Many times, hunger is mistaken for thirst and the "hunger" is relieved with water.

I also like to put lemon in my water so I feel like it is more satisfying.

-- Judy Zimmerman, Wichita, Kan.

LISTEN TO YOUR BODY -- After I had knee surgery, a cast and a year of rehab, my doctor said: "It's not when your next knee surgery will occur, but only how many more." So his advice was to stay active and listen to your body. -- Tim Baron, Kansas City, Mo.

Compiled by The Wichita (Kan.). Eagle