Take a holiday—and stay fit

Press, 18 December 1986, Page 13

Take a holiday—and stay fit

By

JUDI SHEPPARD

MISSETT

Q: How can I keep holiday eating and lack of exercise from getting out of hand?

A: To many people, a holiday means freedom — freedom from work and daily responsibilities. Unfortunately, many of us are tempted to break away from healthy eating habits and regular exercise as well.

Your holiday shouldn’t become synonymous with lack of discipline. Keep health and fitness in mind when you plan your time off. For instance, if you enjoy eating in unique places when you travel, do so. But, take the time to plan your calories wisely. Spread them throughout your holiday as you would your vacation money. Restaurant menus needn’t be intimidating either. If the selections contain too many calories or too much fat, ask to have them prepared without the butter or sauce. Let them know exactly what you want. Most restaurants will be happy to comply. After all, you are paying the bill. There also are plenty of ways to incorporate exercise in your travel plans. Capture the excitement of a new city by touring it on foot. If you must stay in the car for several hours at a time, schedule an afternoon hike or game of Frisbee at a rest area or park along the way.

Runner’s can get into local road races in almost any city. They can be found in a variety of distances — from onemile fun runs to marathons.

Whenever possible, walk. Even if you can’t perform your regular exercise routine, you can make fitness part of your vacation.

Q: Now that the temperatures are getting higher, how much water should I drink when I exercise and how often? A: Taking in enough water is critical during summer months, when hot weather and increased sweating speed dehydration. It is always a good idea to drink water regularly throughout the day, and at least an hour before you exercise. Don’t wait until you are thirsty! Try to drink during your workout whenever you can. Plan your run through a park with a drinking fountain. Take a plastic, non-spill water bottle to your dance exercise class, and so forth.

Postponing or forgetting to replenish these fluids can lead to faintness, dizziness, and even serious heat stroke.

Children require extra supervision during summer exercise. They run a. higher risk of heat-related problems because their “cooling” systems are not yet fully developed. Caught up in the excite-

ment of a softball game or city track meet, they often forget to take a drink. Most importantly, exercise common sense. When the temperatures are extremely high and the heat makes your workout uncomfortable, slow down or pick a less strenuous ac-

tivity. Try turning your attention toward flexibility, rather than intense aerobics, with this stretch to “Learning The Ways of Love” by Peabo Bryson. Photo A: Kneel on the floor and lift your arms high overhead. Hold this stretch for several counts. Keep torso lifted tall, but

do not arch your back. Keep your head in alignment with your spine; shoulders over your hips. Photo B: Lower hips slightly as you lean your torso to your left and rest your left hand on the floor for support. Stretch your right arm overhead and to the left. Hold for

several counts. Return to position A and reverse movements to the opposite side. Continue by alternating sides. —Copyright Jazzercise,