By SUSAN POOLE | Posted: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 12:00 am
By many standards, I am truly a latent athlete. I grew up learning how to swim and play a little tennis.
But I was really into my late 20s and early 30s when, thanks to my husband, Bob, I began running, skiing, playing tennis regularly etc. I started "fun runs" when I was 31 and have competed ever since. I have run in all but three Fall Festival runs, and have quite a shirt collection to prove it!
I started rowing when I was 55. I am committed to rowing.
In addition, I play doubles tennis once or twice a week and for more cardiovascular exercise I row and/or use the er rowing machine two or three times a week minimum and run at least twice a week. I take Pilates classes at OSU with Faculty Staff Fitness, which is excellent for core strength for crew and which is great for balance - an issue for many women.
Snow skiing and snowshoeing in winter are a part of my winter routine. And I garden; actually I am more of a yard person than a gardener - it's good exercise.
I also focus on eating well with lots of fruits, vegetables, good protein, healthful fats and fiber. Commitment to fitness not only helps with sleep and agility, but also contributes to positive mental attitude. Blessedly, keeping up with grandchildren's activities keeps my husband and me on our toes as well!
Bob rowed with Oregon State University's crew team in the '60s. Family, work and location kept him off the water for years. In the late '90s our younger daughter, Lisa, who was a rower at University of Puget Sound, encouraged her dad to get back to crew. He began again with Corvallis Rowing Club, a local Masters program, and has been rowing with them ever since. He's rowed in local, regional, American national and Canadian national competitions as well as prestigious races such Head of the Charles in Boston, Opening Day in Seattle and the San Diego Crew Classic.
Bob sculls (two oars) in his single and in a double with various competitors, including his wife. He sweep rows (single oar) in 4's and 8's. He exercises on the water, usually the Willamette, as often as river level and weather allow. When not rowing, Bob uses his rowing machine to add to his fitness. Usually, he takes one day off a week.
Fueling his body is an important part of his routine and he looks to experts in crew for advice. Rowing is a very physical as well as mental sport. It's an exquisite combination of power and relaxation for the boat to move optimally. When not rowing, Bob continually is learning about rigging and boat repair. His goal is to be rowing into his 80s.
Susan Poole lives in Corvallis with her husband, Bob.