GAMESTOP’S ‘FIT AT ANY AGE’ Q&A WITH MARG HELGENBERGER
source: GameStop: Fit At Any Age
May 19, 2009
Q: It’s hard to believe that you just turned 50! Has it brought you any major insights?
Marg: (Laughs) Well, I still think like a forty-something woman! But I’d say that I definitely worry less about most everything. However, I’ve also noticed that if I get an injury or a strain, it takes longer to heal. I used to take spin classes, and it was really great cardio, but I stopped because it began to bother my hips.
Q: So you like to mix up your workout routines?
I do. Basically, though, I alternate between yoga, the gym, and hiking, and make sure I work out at least four or five times a week. And I’ve been fortunate to work with the same trainer for about fifteen years now; Patti’s awesome.
Q: You’re a big believer in yoga: how would you suggest getting more women involved?
Most gyms offer a free yoga session or two from their personal trainers, which is a great way to get introduced to yoga. Yoga classes can be a great workout, depending on the teacher. For example, as a teenager I always wanted to be able to do the splits, but couldn’t. But after all these years of yoga, I now can!
Q: What’s your motivation to keep fit?
I feel better. And I must confess to vanity! But primarily, plain and simple, I feel better.
Q: To look at you, it seems fitness has always come naturally. Are you blessed with great genes?
I do have good genes, but because I’ve been working out on a regular basis for so long now, it’s become an addiction. And my mother was the school nurse at my high school, so I was always hearing about the benefits of good nutrition.
Q: She’s a special source of inspiration for you, isn’t she?
Absolutely! My mother battled breast cancer in her mid-40’s. She vowed to run in a 5k race if she lived to fifty, and she kept her promise to herself.
Q: Let’s talk about some favorites: how about power snack?
Probably a granola bar.
Q: Favorite healthy food?
All types of vegetable soups.
Q: Favorite not-so-healthy food?
French fries!
Q: Favorite iPod tunes for working out?
The Clash, My Morning Jacket, Flo Rida, Michael Jackson.
Q: What’s your biggest fitness challenge?
I’m a cardio slacker.
Q: Any personal healthy lifestyle tips?
At any age, I’d suggest that women, and men, too, should listen to their bodies and eat consciously.
Q: How do you inspire and encourage kids to keep healthy?
Like my mom, I believe in good nutrition. Cook healthy, and stock the fridge and pantry with healthy snacks. I’m also a big believer in getting kids involved in sports, and even coaching their teams if possible