The Zoomer Report: Fitness Test

Are you fitter than average? To test the nation’s fitness, the Canadian Health Measures Survey challenged participants to do a set of 25 partial curl-ups in a minute. To do the exercise you lie flat on your back with your knees bent. Then curl up slowly and lift your torso off the floor. Guess how many people could complete the full set. Only 13 per cent of women aged 40-59. Men that age fared better — 36 per cent could meet the challenge. In the 60-69 age group only 4 per cent of women and 12 per cent of men finished the set.

These results are part of a landmark study you probably heard about. Statistics Canada found that between 1981 and 2009, the average weight of a 45-year-old man ballooned by 20 pounds while women that age are 12 pounds heavier. Both genders gained three inches around the waist. More than 60 per cent of Canadians are now overweight and it usually happens by the age of 36. Hopefully, these numbers will be a wake-up call and an inspiration to help us become more active.

Photo ©iStockphoto.com/ Marina Bartel

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About The Zoomer Report

Libby Znaimer, a prominent Canadian journalist specializing in business, politics, and lifestyle issues, is producer and host of The Zoomer Report, a special feature on topics of interest to baby boomers and the 50+. It covers everything from health and wealth to leisure and volunteerism, from the special vantage point of the generation that has changed society in its wake.

Ms. Znaimer is also Vice-President of News and Information for Classical 96.3FM and AM740. Her first book, “In Cancerland – Living Well Is The Best Revenge” – was published in October 2007 by Key Porter.

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