Fitness knowledge: On target or misses the mark? Published March 12, 2009 By Marilyn Leggett, RN Civilian Health Promotion Services EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- According to the American Public Health Association, the U.S. life expectancy has reached a record high of 78.1 years, but still ranks 46th behind other countries. Combinations of factors have contributed to Americans living longer lives on average. The advancement of medical technology and a better informed public on health risks could be counted among those factors. Eglin Civilian Health Promotion Services promotes wellness in order to maintain the optimal health, wellness and effectiveness of civilian force members. One of the questions always asked is, "How can I improve my numbers?" The standard reply is, "Diet and exercise." A lifestyle of healthy eating and regular activity can improve one's health in a multitude of ways. Workplace wellness programs have been around for many years and, increasingly, more and more companies are getting on the bandwagon. The outcomes of these programs usually include improved morale and productivity. Access to fitness centers, health education classes, tobacco cessation programs and preventive screenings are just some of what makes these programs successful. Civilian Health Promotion Services was established for Department of Defense civilians to promote health and wellness at Air Force Materiel Command installations. The Eglin office has been in service since March 2005 and the CHPS featured service is annual, no-cost cholesterol screening. Nearly everyone can find some form of physical activity that will be beneficial, but not everyone feels they know enough to engage productively in regular activity. Here is a quiz from the Mayo Clinic to test your fitness savvy: When you exercise, go for the intense burn in your muscles. True or False Aerobic exercise is all that really matters. True or False Women who strength train are bound to bulk up. True or False Exercise helps you sleep better. True or False Exercise has to be strenuous to be beneficial. True or False You can eat whatever you want if you exercise enough. True or False Abdominal exercises will flatten your stomach. True or False Aerobic exercise permanently speeds up your metabolism. True or False Exercise can put the spark back into your sex life. True or False The more you sweat, the more fat you'll lose. True or False Click here for the answers For more information on good health and fitness, visit www.afmcwellness.com or call Eglin CHPS at 883-8024 or Eglin Health and Wellness Center at 883-8020/8022.