IF OUR aim is to be fit and well, why are many of us so reluctant to do anything to improve our health that the Government is considering legislation to force us? It is a question that Tim Keightley, fitness executive for the Fitness First chain of health clubs, often asks. His solution to kick-start us into exercising is a one-mile run challenge.
As a sponsor for this year’s Sport Relief, Fitness First wanted to organise an activity open to all. “Make the ambition too big and people just will not take part,” Keightley said. “Anyone can run a mile.”
The organisers hope to set a record for the highest number of people simultaneously running a mile. They also anticipate that the feeling of satisfaction it is bound to bring will encourage some of them to continue exercising.
The four-week training programme, for beginners through to experienced runners, can be conducted in a gym, a park or at home. All sessions should start with a five-minute warm-up and thorough stretch.