I see the government's Center for Disease Control and Prevention (isn't it
wonderful we have all these bureaucrats working on our behalf?) has noted
that "Americans are getting fatter and doing it at a faster rate" (Neil
Pierce, Washington Post). They propose that communities be redesigned to
lessen dependence on the car, so that children, for example, can walk to
school again, as they used to.

They are correct in this. It's going to take a monumental effort to change
planning and land use regulations to narrow street widths, eliminate
cul-de-sacs, etc., but I fully support the concept. Walking is essential for
good overall health - I try to walk at least one mile daily, and lately I've
been able to hike in the local mountains at least once a week. This is
enormously beneficial, and I think that outdoor exercise, as opposed to gym
work outs, is essential. You must breath fresh air, and you do need to get
into a natural environment.

Hiking on rugged mountainous trails is highly stimulating, because you have
to think what you are doing. You must take note of your surroundings, so that
you do not get lost, and you have to examine the terrain for the best route,
and you have to look where you put your feet. This is constant mental, as
well as physical exercise (plus you've got to look out for other hostile
tribes, and marauding wild animals!). A gym cannot provide this.

Charles
San Diego, CA