Over the years, Shapiro has collected enough books on running and exercise to fill two shelves in her office. But she says too many beginners think they have to read and study and know a lot about their sport before getting started. "People think they have to know so much, but they can do as I did and learn as they go along."
Nor do you need a lot of expensive equipment, she says. "For running, all you need are good shoes. You don't need a lot of technology to keep yourself in shape."
And even though she began her own fitness quest out of concern for her daughter, not herself, Shapiro says that ultimately, it won't work if you're doing it for someone else. "You can't be motivated by your children, your spouse, your boss or whoever. People have got to want to feel better for themselves."
\o7 Readers: Do you see working out as an opportunity to mingle with the opposite sex? Or do you prefer to keep your gym experience the same way it probably was in high school, with boys and girls safely separated? Tell us which works better for you, and why. Send your comments to Keeping Fit, The Times, 1375 Sunflower Ave., Costa Mesa, Calif. 92626. Please include a telephone number so that we can contact you.\f7
