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Clark Howard's Tips

February 1, 2008

Clark is obsessed with exercise. He doesn't feel right unless he works out every day, which may say more about the psychological than the physical. Exercise helps him relax and relieve stress. Interestingly, he doesn't do it to be fit or in good health.

The Archives of Internal Medicine has now done a long-term evaluation of 2,400 British twins. Researchers found that people who exercise routinely through life slow the aging of their bodies. Similar studies have demonstrated that exercise can reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer. But this study now shows that you can actually steal back some years from the calendar.

The current thinking is that by consistently exercising 4 times a week you can gain about 5 or 6 extra years of quality living.

Many people have difficulty developing the habit of exercise. Clark's advice is to do it one step at a time. Start with just a walk, perhaps twice a week. You'll need a routine, so pick a time of day and stick to it. Once you're comfortable with twice a week, start walking at least 3 times a week. From a financial perspective, you'll save on medical care and missed days at work.

Consumer advice courtesy of