ou are never too old to get in
shape. I am often asked what I've done over the years to stay in shape. At
different times, I have engaged in many different activities. When I was
in school I played football and basketball. The Marine Corps provided its
own unique brand of physical training or PT. While in the space program
and for many years afterwards, I jogged to stay in shape. And my wife
Annie and I have enjoyed hiking and skiing over the years. Most of all, I
have always valued staying active in one way or another.
From my involvement with NASA,
both in the Mercury program and with the Shuttle Mission STS-95, I have
become keenly aware of the effect that weightlessness can have on the
human body. Without the effect of gravity, astronauts' muscles and bones
begin to deteriorate while they're in space. A number of other changes
occur to the astronauts in orbit - from which they recover upon their
return - that also happen as part of the natural aging process right here
on Earth. For one, osteoporosis sets in. These same things can happen to
us if we maintain a sedentary lifestyle. This is especially true as we get
older.
The good news is that exercise is
just a step away. I am pleased to recommend Exercise: A Guide from the
National Institute on Aging as an excellent manual for anyone who
wants to take those first steps toward an active lifestyle. The scientists
and doctors at the National Institute on
Aging
at the National
Institutes of Health
collaborated to produce this top-notch book. This guide contains valuable
information about how exercise and proper nutrition are crucial for
staying healthy as we age and provides useful tips on establishing and
maintaining a regular exercise program.
In my case, I had to make
accommodations to my advancing years by modifying my exercise regime. In
the past, I was an ardent jogger, but as I got older my doctor said that
the impact of running was putting too much stress on my knees and other
joints. He suggested that I take up speed walking instead. Along with
that, I do some weight lifting and stretching. So now I still get a great
workout, but by doing exercise that is appropriate for my age and physical
condition. This guide will help you do the same.
I hope you will read this book
and follow its suggestions. We can all enjoy healthy and productive senior
years by heeding these recommendations.
