Exercise example (President Bush's exercise regimen)

Florida Today ^ | August 4, 2003 | Editorial

[SamAdams76]

Harry Truman took his early morning constitutional and Ronald Reagan was fond of riding horses, but when it comes to exercise, President Bush easily puts both to shame.

His fitness routine includes running three miles three times a week, "water jogging," stretching, and the use of training equipment and free weights. Sometimes, he also cuts brush around his Texas ranch or takes a stroll with his wife.

[SamAdams76]

I must say that part of the reason I embarked upon a diet and exercise regimen back in April was because I was inspired by how in shape President Bush was. Having reached age 40 last September, I pretty much gave up on the fact that I would ever be in good shape again. I figured it was all downhill from there.

But then I saw that we had a president who was nearly 20 years older than I yet he was in perfect physical shape. I figured I'd better get off my lazy butt and start doing some exercise myself. After all, I couldn't use the excuse that I didn't have the time. If the man with the busiest job in the world can find time to run a few miles in the morning and lift some weights, then so can I.

In fact, I now walk at least 6 miles a day - every day - and usually more than that. When I walk, I walk briskly, at a 14-15 minute per mile pace. I'm up at 5:00am 7 days a week where I walk 3-5 miles (more on weekends) and then, instead of lunch, I walk another 3-4 miles.

I feel great, have dropped 60 pounds from my lard-ass frame, and next year at this time, provided I continue my daily regimen, maybe I'll be in as good shape as the president.

Anyway, I thought I'd post this for all those who used to think like me about exercise.

[hoosiermama]

You and the Bushes are inspirations!

[Those_Crazy_Liberals]

You're both inspirations.

[Paradox]

I feel great, have dropped 60 pounds from my lard-ass frame, and next year at this time, provided I continue my daily regimen, maybe I'll be in as good shape as the president.

60 pounds! Thats great! My formerly fit, currently lard ass self (same age) could stand to lose about 25 lbs, may not sound like much, but at 5'4" tall, its more than I can stand. I am humbled by your achievement, hopefully into the gym!

[zarf]

Keep up the good work. I, like you, had weight issues and am now in tip top shape. I typically run 6-10 miles 4 times a week with interval training on the 5th day and mix in very strenuous hill runs. I weigh a hell of alot less less than I did in High School (MANY MOONs AGO!).

With all due respect, I could kick the Prez's butt in a 5k. That aside, he's a great inspiration for all of us.

[AppyPappy]

The Devil is conspiring to keep me from the gym. I may join one this fall (instead of using the free crowded university gym). If I pay for it, the Devil will quit finding stuff for me to do at home.

[zarf]

Keep up the good work SA!!

[mike_9958]

WAY TO GO!!!!

Keep it up.... I did the same at the ripe age of 40.... I lost my extra baggage and have kept it off - I'm going to be 45 this year. Bush is an inspiration to us middle age self abused men.

I now exercise and keep the carbs and fat in check for the priviledge of drinking beer.

[zarf]

Keep up the good work SA!! It's amazing what a difference exercise makes in your life.....mentally and physically!

[SICSEMPERTYRANNUS]

Congratulations on meeting your fitness goals. Keep it up!

SIC

[SamAdams76]

I would like to run (instead of walk) but I am susceptible to shin splints and other injuries when I run. So I walk. Walking is an exercise that is difficult to injure yourself doing. But it is important to walk as briskly as you can. When I first started in April, I went on a single 3-mile walk each day. That walk took a lot out of me. I got blisters, my thighs were bleeding (from rubbing together) and I was sore all over. But I got out there everyday nevertheless.

Around the end of April, I felt much better (my thighs no longer rubbed) and started walking at least twice a day for 3 miles or more. I now walk roughly 14-15 minute miles and I am working on a gait that will improve even on that. Perhaps then, I might be ready to run.

I went to the White Mountains last week in New Hampshire and did a lot of hiking up there. One day I hiked about 15 miles up and down hills. I intend to go back next summer and climb Mt. Washington.

[SamAdams76]

I now exercise and keep the carbs and fat in check for the priviledge of drinking beer.

I hear you. I have become a true-believer of the low-carb diet. I never did adopt the Atkins plan but by way of avoiding all junk and processed foods, I have drastically reduced my carb intake. After all, that is where most of the carbs are found. I also avoid rice, potatos, pasta and breads. The only substantial carbs I get these days are in beer, wine, vegetables, fruits and the sports drinks I use (usually Propel water). For four months now, I have been eating nothing but whole foods and it feels great. Meat, fish, nuts, vegetables, cheese, olive oil. Some fruit. Beer, wine and lots of water. Those are the staples of my diet today.

[zarf]

When your ready, do some stair climbing....another great way to get the heart rockin and rolling.

[AlbionGirl]

Is it possible for a man to be a lard-ass? I know that bill clinton needs a bra and has a touch of cellulite, but I always thought he was 1/2 girl anyway.

Kidding aside though, congratulations and keep up the good work. 7 to 10 miles a day ain't no easy task.

[SwinneySwitch]

Damn it! Now I have to drag my lazy ass out of bed at 5am just because of health nuts like you and GW! Keep it up, Sammy!