A compelling description of staying active for the long run comes to us from Annette, who submitted these comments, plus a photo, through our Share Your Story feature:

"At the age of 23 and a new mother myself, my mom passed away suddenly as a result of undetected heart disease. My father is now 91 and I have witnessed heart bypasses, brain stem embolisms, strokes and anuerisms with him. I am determined to live healthy and to set an example of good health for my family.

"Seventeen years ago I decided to start running, five years ago I began cycling and two years ago I learned to swim and now, at the age of 51, I compete in triathlons. Life could not be better! The friends I have met in these physical activities have changed my life, not only do we ride bikes together but we share our hearts and dreams. When competing in these events and witnessing someone in their 70's and 80's getting out there, I am inspired to the point of exhiliration with the anticipation that I may be doing that 30 years from now!"

Shared on May 7, 2008 Share your story

Today we hear from Kae, who knows the benefits of regular physical activity and has used the Million Step March to get back on a routine:

"It has been fun entering data on the Web site. I started a week late but had already started back on an exercise plan after gaining 30 pounds after switching jobs and quiting the Y. The job switch was good but the quiting the Y bad!

"After feeling awful, seeing the blood pressure go up and the cholesterol, I decided to go back on Weight Watchers which had worked eariler for me. Now a round on the home Nordic Track each morning at 5 a.m. and then at least three miles walking in the afternoon has worked to get me back to almost where I want to be. I feel great again!

"Thanks for the opportunity to share."

Shared on May 7, 2008 Share your story

Through Share Your Story, Tanya uses an apt metaphor to describe her efforts to get in shape:

"In 2004 I couldn't walk around the block because I was so overweight and physically inactive. So, I stepped it up and lost 92 pounds. Now, I exercise six days every week. I strength train three days a week and hike three days a week. Now, I am always looking for a new mountain to climb. The view at the top is always worth the effort."

Shared on May 7, 2008 Share your story

Raynel has found the right physical activity - yoga - to help with a health condition:

"I have always tried to be physically fit but when I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, I had to step it up and in a way I did not expect. I was struggling with just walking at the time, so I decided to try something else altogether.

"I had heard from a friend that there was a awesome yoga teacher not far from my house. I enrolled and began a yoga practice that would last 14 years and is still continuing today. I am so grateful to have yoga in my life. Today, I have my colitis under control and I do my yoga and I walk to keep healthy. It's a great life!"

Shared on May 7, 2008 Share your story