President Robert Gillett: “The Healthy CEO”

Posted on Thursday, April 18th, 2013

Physical fitness is something that we all know is good for us, however, it is not always easy to ensure that exercise remains a priority in our busy lives. I have always loved walking so I walk every day, both at work and at home, so that at least I get some cardio training benefits. There is no question that it pays off, not only in terms of overall health, but also with increased energy.

After reading a book called “The Healthy CEO”, I went for testing that is available at Carleton University to establish some baseline data and to determine (at my advanced age), what additional training I should be doing . As a result of their recommendations, I added to my walking routine, weight training on alternative days for building strength and muscle mass which according to the fitness experts are essential to ensure better long term health and balance.

I booked myself with one of Algonquin’s fitness trainers and after 5 sessions, he laid out a plan for me which has proven to be just what I needed. It is amazing how one can start slowly and then increase both the amount of weight and the number of repetitions without any residual pain and with the added benefit of really feeling great after each workout. I would encourage anyone who is interested in good health, more energy and just feeling great to get involved in some fitness activity as ultimately, it is one of the few things in our lives which is in our control and will have long term benefits for the future.

A year later …..

As a progress report on my fitness plan, it would seem that even with the best of intentions, one can make mistakes. I was obviously trying too hard with the weights with the result that I tore a tendon and ruptured a bicep which certainly has tempered my original training plan. It also taught me a very important lesson which I must say was stressed by the trainer and that was that one must be very careful (at all ages) to not push one’s body beyond its capability at any moment in time and to pay attention to pain signals as they are the first warning signs of a problem.

The training continues and the wellness benefits far outweigh any of the challenges I have created for myself.


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