Fun and Fitness for the 40-Something

Interesting article in the LA Times about a new gym in Portland, OR, that will “use solar power as well as human-powered cycling and cardio machines to generate renewable energy.” The owner expects the gym to initially produce 40 percent of its required energy.

According to the article,

“The gym also features treadmills that use nearly one-third less energy than most of their counterparts because they have energy-efficient, self-regulating, brushless motor drive systems that run more cleanly than traditional motors. And they’ll be switched off when not in use.”

Apparently, most gyms leave the machines running constantly.

It’s a cool idea, but could it catch on?

While I love working for myself, one undeniable drawback is the lack of employer-provided insurance. I was lucky for a while—the COBRA coverage from my last employer ran out just as I began grad school, where I got very reasonably priced student coverage. For the past five years, though, I’ve been stuck with a health savings account (HSA)/high deductible health plan arrangement. How can I describe my opinion of this set-up delicately? It kind of sucks.

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