Meet Robin Chaplin

About 25 years ago I had one or two health concerns and a side-on photograph of myself did not look good.  I had to make it through the next ten years to retirement to ensure the best retirement benefits for my wife should I just one day keel over.  I was a bit overweight and my cholesterol was a little high.  The message from the doctor was to get more exercise.  That was when I started swimming regularly at the old YMCA.  It took five years to build up some muscular strength, then respiratory fitness and finally cardio endurance.  I could then swim continuously for an hour.  After ten years I had lost ten pounds and felt as if I had gained ten years of life.  Exercise alone was not enough and I happened to come across Dr Gott’s book “No Flour, No Sugar, Diet”.  It was just that and so simple.  I just reduced my flour and sugar intake by eating fewer baked goods and cutting back on sugary drinks and lost a further ten pounds over the next ten years.  Since then I have maintained my weight and fitness but slowed down a bit so have to swim for longer to get in the same distance.  I really appreciate the lap swimming schedule at the new YMCA which allows for extended lap swimming.  I have to thank The Y for my good health.

For an exercise program to be successful one has to enjoy it.  I would never be able to work out in the gym but I like the feel of the water and the support that it gives.  It is the one exercise that builds strength, endurance and flexibility all at the same time and does not put excessive stress on the joints.  It is the same with diet.  One has to eat what one enjoys but steer clear of restaurants and fast food outlets.  I eat chicken and fish, fruit and vegetables, milk and orange juice, and ice cream and chocolate and avoid the baked goods section of the supermarket.

Do you have a Y story to share? Send it to amy.whittaker@ymcafredericton.org