Runalong

I've often commented on the fact that if you ask someone over 60 what is most important to them (temporally speaking), they always answer: health. "All that matters is if you have your health," yet, if you ask someone under 60 what they are doing to prepare for retirement years they can tell you all about IRA's and retirement plans and how they are trying to save and invest for the financial aspect of retirement, but few are doing anything to ensure that they'll be in good health in their latter years.

Now, there are no guarantees: your investments may go sour and good health may elude you even if you do all the right things. But if we sacrificially prepare for financial well-being, shouldn't we prepare for the more important matter of health?

The current Money magazine, of all sources, agrees. The greatest regret of retirees isn't failing to provide for themselves financially, but failing to invest in their health (p18). And health is a two-fer: "Want to double your portfolio's size? Exercise, cut out fats and don't smoke."

Later in the magazine they look, Money-style, at which form of exercise gives you the most health-bang for the buck. The clear winner: Running: more than four times better than swimming and seven times better than cycling (per dollar spent).

Hey, if I can inspire John Stumbo, maybe I can inspire you too!