Fun and Fitness for the 40-Something

From my “why bother?” file of research studies: “Botox Can Improve First Impressions for Attractiveness, Dating Success.”

A press release explains: “The popular cosmetic enhancement, botulinum toxin A (Botox) positively effects first impression judgments in relation to attractiveness, dating success, and athleticism, says new research.”

And the second impression? The third?

Remember those horrid annual “Presidential Fitness Tests” we had to take as kids in gym class? Well, the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports has launched an online version for adults.

Unlike the version you might remember, the Adult Fitness Test doesn’t involve pull-ups, shuttle races or 50-yard dashes. The tests focus on “health-related fitness,” as opposed to “performance-related fitness.” The activities provide an estimate of your level of aerobic fitness, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition. You can use the results to track your progress in each area as you become more physically active.

Check out the tests below:

Aerobic Fitness Test (1-mile walk or 1.5-mile run)
Muscular Strength & Endurance Test (half sit-up or push-up)
Flexibility Test (sit-and-reach)
Body Composition Test (BMI and waist size)

Each test includes instructions on how to interpret and improve your results.

Not sure if you’re healthy enough to take the tests? The web site provides a questionnaire that will let you know.