by Ted Sherman

Created on: December 25, 2006   Last Updated: April 18, 2007

Aerobics are OK for the young, healthy and GI recruits, but what about we who are no longer young and a bit less healthy? At age 81, I'm fortunate that I can still do aerobics, but find them booorrring. I live in a desert town with a nearby community pool. With sunshine 11 1/2 months a year, my prime exercise is swimming. I do 25 Olympic-length laps a day, plus 15 minutes of upper body exercises in the whirlpool spa. Another activity which is much more interesting than aerobics is walking. Yeah, just plain hiking. With so many interesting sights nearby, I find each walk an adventure. Besides the sunshine, ocotillo and cacti, I've been greeted by rattlesnakes, javalinas (wild pigs), coyotes, mountain lions, wildcats, lizards and occasional less friendly humans. So, whether young or old, spend at least part of your exercise day outside in the fresh air.

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