Exercise in the New Year
By Jeanne O’Kon
It is once again the time of year for making New Year’s Resolutions.
In fact, what better time to make some life-changing resolutions than at the beginning of a new millennium?
Consider making a resolution that will impact your health and longevity more than any other: “I hereby resolve to exercise regularly and make physical activity a priority in my daily routine.”
There are numerous reasons why exercise should rank high among your New Year’s resolutions.
The health advantages derived from regular exercise include greater muscle strength and flexibility, improved cardiovascular fitness, lower blood pressure, better circulation, and stronger bones. In addition, exercise increases oxygen supply to the brain, raises good cholesterol levels (HDL), and burns up calories. Greater energy, improved sleep patterns, a rosy glow, and better posture are additional benefits.
Those who exercise frequently enjoy psychological gains as well, including relief of stress and tension, a boost in self-esteem, and an opportunity to meet other nice people. Getting to enjoy the great outdoors is an additional bonus.
We in the Gulf Winds Track Club invite you to consider running as part of your regular exercise routine. It is simple, inexpensive, and can be performed almost anywhere. You can work out at your own pace and go any desired distance.
Runners of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate in our ongoing club-sponsored running activities at any time.
Group track workouts are held at the FSU Mike Long Track at 6:00 p.m. every Tuesday throughout the year. Sunday morning running groups meet regularly at the FSU Tully Gym at 7:00 a.m., and at 8:00 a.m. at the St. Marks Trail Head. Summer track meets are held on Thursday evenings in June and July at 7:00 p.m. at the FSU Mike Long Track.
A free novice running class will begin on January 20th at 5:45 p.m. at Messer Field. Contact Julie Clark at julieclark@nettally.com for details.
And, there are local road races and fun runs almost every weekend in the Tallahassee area. More information about local running events is available in this weekly column and on the Gulf Winds web site at www.gwtc.org.
We hope you will join us as you carry out your New Year’s Resolutions. May this New Year bring you good health and great fitness!