According to the Gallup Poll, 24 percent of American adults exercised regularly in 1961, and 50 percent after 1968. The peak was 59 percent in 1984, dropping off to 51 percent last September.

I used to think that it didn't make any difference how far you ran if you had a good, strong musculoskeletal system and no underlying cardiovascular problems.

Over the years, Ive covered 22,000 miles.

You have to run 75 to 100 miles a week if you expect to break the four-minute mile.

So I've broadened the fitness concept to make it one of moderation and balance.

We are involved in youth testing internationally. We want to try to prove without a shadow of a doubt the relationship between physical fitness and health, not just physical fitness and ability to perform.

After 26 years, I am still practicing what I preach.