Quincyonthego Weblog

When I headed back to the swimming pool 7 years ago, I was 15 pounds overweight, depressed, and suffering from chronic back pain. At 43, I was ancient. The only reason I was standing on the deck at the South Shore YMCA, stuffed into a bathing suit double the size I once wore, was the stern warning from my doctor that if I didn’t find some kind of non-weight bearing exercise to do, I could kiss what was left of my health goodbye.

7 years and 1000 miles of lap swimming later, I weigh 112 pounds; I’m in better shape than I’ve ever been; and my worries and cares wash away every time I put on my cap and goggles, and slip into the pool for a brisk mile long workout with a handful of the other Y regulars who feel as passionate about swimming and exercise as I do.

It’s never too late to start. You are never too big, never too old, never TOO FAR GONE–that you won’t experience the thrill of a lifetime if you can commit to even a modest but regular exercise routine–doing something that gives you pleasure, and helps you deal with the mental and physical stresses of daily life.

If you join the Y, you will also make new friends and acquaintances. You will find yourself trying new things. Checking out the Stairmaster, or lifting weights in the fitness center. Spending a few minutes in the sauna, the whirlpool, or the steamroom.

But even if you don’t join the Y or any other fitness organization–adding quality and deliberate activity to your life will make you happier and healthier.

It’s that simple.