The Heart & Sole Fitness Challenge is based on Dr. Kenneth Cooper's Aerobics point system whereby individuals attempt to maintain and improve their cardiorespiratory fitness level by attaining 30 or more points per week. Point values are earned for participating in any aerobic sport or activity.  Naturally the values are higher as the level of intensity or duration becomes greater.

Find an activity that you like and participate with the goal of earning 30 points for the week. Those with greater energy and enthusiasm can set higher goals, if they choose. The most important point to consider is that this is not a race; it is a commitment to an improved quality of life that an active lifestyle may provide.

Enter your personal data on the entry form that is kept at the CRS desk at the entrance to the Johnson Center. At the end of each activity period, log the points on your form under the correct date. At the end of the 12 weeks, if you met the goal of 360 points, you may claim your award.

This Heart & Sole Fitness Challenge is a self-paced program. You participate at your leisure or when you find it most convenient. You determine the intensity of each exercise period. You may perform the activity here or at home, it makes no matter. Just continue to log your points in the notebook and keep a running tally.

The point values for numerous activities are listed in the Heart & Sole Fitness Challenge notebook or find it online at: Dr. Cooper's aerobic point system. If you do not find your favorite listed there, contact the CRS Director and the information can be provided.

Dr. Cooper's research indicates that 30 points is the minimum level of activity to put an individual into that level of cardiorespiratory fitness that is deemed healthy. Please note that this is a minimum value.

The standard caution with respect to beginning a program of physical activity is to seek your physician's approval. This is especially true if you have an existing medical condition or are taking medication. In general, those men under the age of 45 and women under the age of 55 may begin a program of moderate physical activity without a physical examination.

The award is a Heart & Sole T-shirt and your name proudly listed on the CRS website along with all of the other members who completed this fitness challenge.

Call the CRS Director at 953-5559 with your questions.