In 1962, 13 percent of
Americans were overweight. Today nearly
60 percent of Americans are overweight and the trend toward weight gain
continues. As we age, weight control
becomes an even greater challenge. However,
Ruth Wassinger, has a message for older Americans who want to lose weight:
it’s never too late to get fit. Wassinger, who didn’t start running
marathons until she was fifty years old, describes herself as having been very
“unathletic” most of her life. That is, until she discovered running.
Not only did she become physically fit, she made an important discovery:
as she became fit, all other areas of her life improved. She became a better
wife, mother, public servant, leader, and financial professional.
Now, she encourages others to
start walking or running with her nine steps to getting physically fit. In
addition to describing the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of exercise,
she lays out the mechanics of starting a running program.
