STAYING HEALTHY
Although we may have a tendency to assume that each generation becomes better than its predecessor, sometimes the facts indicate otherwise. Such was the case recently when I came across some statistics about physical fitness among the baby boomers. Cindy McDermott is the YMCA’s national membership director. Assessing the baby boomers, she concludes (Michelle Fay Cortez, “Never Too Old To Sweat” Bloomberg Businessweek , 3/9/15–3/15/15, p. 57):
“ ‘This is the healthiest generation of older adults ever.’ ”
Tom Manella, who is the VP for training at Life Time Fitness, concurs:
“ ‘Many of these folks are in better shape than when they were 30 years ago.’ ”
The demographics and trends are undeniably interesting. Nevertheless, the more important fact is that each generation has the same opportunity to achieve its fitness goals. So what are you doing for your generation? Moreover, if your response is anything less than positive, then you especially need to pay heed to professor of medicine (University of California), Dr. Janice Schwartz’s wisdom:
“ ‘Exercise is the only thing—and you should underline that—that helps everything associated with aging.’ ”
Your professional life, your personal life, and your career are all wonderful privileges. However, you will only progress in them as far as your body can carry you. Today can be the day that you turn the corner on your health. That seems to be a worthwhile investment.
