April/May 2007

Known as the “father of aerobic exercise,” Dr. Kenneth Cooper helped to launch a new movement in America. In 1968, he published Aerobics, which offered the then-revolutionary notion that vigorous exercise could help people get and stay healthy. Two years later, he founded the Cooper Institute in Dallas, Texas, a world-renowned facility devoted to the benefits of exercise and preventive medicine. He later published the book Faith-Based Fitness. In it, he asserts that “faith” can play a significant role in a person’s health.

I feel incredibly blessed to be able to sing and make music. On the road it’s pretty simple: sit-ups and push-ups most of the time and sometimes a workout room in a hotel. Improvement requires a lot of work and commitment but it’s so worth it.

How does one go about increasing energy for a productive, efficient workout? Alissa Carpio gives you a step-by-step plan to fine-tune a diet that will give you the energy you need and want.

If you are like most people you have probably taken more than one ride on the Diet Roller Coaster. Hold on tight as nutrition consultant Elliott Young guides you through four major diet types and helps you assess your motives and attitudes toward weight loss.

Have you had your phytochemicals today? They’re found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Most likely, they’re in many of the foods you eat everyday. Wes Harrison shares how even though you can’t change your health over night, consistently eating a balanced diet comprised of several colors may do just that.

Many times, my mother would take my siblings and me to her softball games and track meets. When my mother wasn’t doing that she was home practicing her fencing moves in the living room - in full fencing gear and mask. I was proud to have a mother who was in shape and smart too. But more importantly than that, she had balance in her life.

Susan experienced body dissatisfaction from a young age. She was angry with herself for being unable to control what she ate and her ongoing weight gain. Darcy Tucker, Assistant Clinical Director for the Remuda Life Program lets you explore the process of bringing hope in the midst of emotional eating disorders. You’ll discover the role God’s grace plays in each of our lives and how we can measure success.

I’m an ectomorph – I’m naturally slim. I just gained 55 this week. But, I can tell you I already feel much better.