GENERAL CARE OF THE BODY: EXERCISE AND SPORTS

Many people obtain all the exercise they need on the job or walking to and from work. In the matter of exercise, perhaps more than any other subject taken up in this chapter, the factors of individual likes and dislikes and bodily reactions are tremendously important. If you think of trying something new, such as squash or tennis, talk it over with your doctor, particularly if your are entering the middle or later years of life. Some people can safely engage in very strenuous sports and exercises, even until they are very old. Others need to start cutting down relatively early in life. On the basis of his knowledge about your own medical condition and the history of illness and longevity in your ancestors, your doctor can advise you.

Choice of sports and athletics

Few people will stick to dull, routine exercises. The fun and competition of an athletic game stimulate interest so that you enjoy your exercise. However, too many young people, especially young men, become proficient only in those sports that cannot be carried into later life. Some of these, such as boxing, carry the continual threat of body injury. Highly competitive sports, including football, basketball, rowing and athletics, do not serve a useful purpose in the individual health programme in later life. Either they are too strenuous, or they require too many participants. A busy adult with job and family can rarely get up a neighbourhood football game.

It is wise for the athletically inclined to take advantage of their local high school and university facilities to become proficient in one or two of the following sports. Some that can be carried into middle and even late life, to the benefit of body and muscle health, strength, and good posture are swimming, golf, tennis, canoeing, hiking, badminton, squash, horseback riding.

These are desirable because they require only one or two people. They lend themselves to weekend relaxation. Married couples can enjoy them together, later participating in them with their children.

Hiking and swimming are good sports for persons of all ages, especially those who enjoy the outdoors. Many communities have indoor pools so that it is possible to swim regardless of the season. Neither of these sports needs to be expensive.

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