You Told Us

In the previous issue of Forever Phi Mu, we asked for your feedback on how you fit regular exercise into your busy schedules. And, we asked how often you exercise. This month, we're reporting those findings, including your tips for staying healthy.
 
Exercise Regularly: 97%
 
Rarely/Never Exercise: 3%
Phi Mus Share Tips for Staying Healthy

"Exercise has always been 'top of the list' for me," shares Elayn Gran Bigelow. "Now, at age 78, I spend five hours per week at a dance exercise class. Every Sunday morning, I do a 15-mile bike hike with a buddy."

To avoid boredom, Holly Clark varies her routine, from cross-training to kickboxing to step aerobics and boot camp classes. "I chose a health club that has babysitting so I can bring my kids. I feel I am setting a good example for my children, so hopefully they will also view exercising as part of a daily routine."

"My sister and I go to Curves at least three times a week," says Kittie Ellis. "Since we are both in our 60s, we have found that the addition of exercise to our lives has made a big and important difference in our flexibility and stamina."

"I swim a mile one night a week. Two other nights a week, I walk between two and three miles. Other days, I do relaxing yoga exercises," says Bonnia Cook Fouts.

Nancy Ruppel Georges stays busy by going to the gym and working with a personal trainer twice a week. "Now I walk three miles a day so my dog won't be disappointed. And, I'm taking golf lessons," Nancy shares.

Chrissy Kalbert enthuses: "I recently joined a gym, and the cost every month for the fee is what keeps me motivated! I also work out with another Phi Mu, and it's great to talk to her when otherwise I would only see her a couple of times a year."

To stay fit, Joy Cox McElroy suggests joining a sports league that you enjoy. "My husband and I both play softball at least two nights a week. You play for an hour in the hot sun but never notice it because you are enjoying yourself."

"I walk with a friend three times per week. We make it our weekly catch-up visit. I get to her house at 5:30 a.m., and I'm home by 7:00 a.m. to get ready for work," remarks Kathleen Theriot.

Peggy West makes a commitment to exercise by working out during her lunch break. Three days a week, she does water aerobics at the local YMCA, and she does the ever-popular Pilates stretching and strengthening the other two days. She shares, "doing my exercise in the middle of the day assures me that I will stick with my routine and also allows me to return to my desk relaxed and ready for the afternoon."