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Kiss Boomeritis Goodbye

The Marin Independent Journal, 11/12/07

Abstract:

On Oct. 15, 2007, with a few unremarkable keystrokes, Kathleen Casey-Kirschling took one small step for a woman and one giant leap for a generation.

Casey-Kirschling, who is widely considered to be the nation's first Baby boomer, became the first boomer to file for Social Security retirement benefits.

What does this have to do with fitness? A lot, actually. It means that the boomers are getting older. And that means that in order to make the next phase of their lives as healthy and fulfilling as possible, they must do things a little differently when it comes to physical activity...

...Baby boomers comprise the largest segment of the American population, at roughly 80 million strong. But a recent study indicates that while boomers may be strong in numbers, they're not so strong in body. Injuries among boomers - torn ligaments, stress fractures and knee problems - are at an all time high.

Boomeritis, as health professionals call it, costs and estimated $22.8 billion in 2003. That's the bad news. Here's the good: It's easier than your think to get into great shape, and the scientifically verified benefits of physical activity include a better heart, a better mind, a better body and a better life.

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