By Therese Iknoian

This part of the quiz covers workout safety indoors and outdoors. A series of "yes" answers, and you're on the way to a smart fitness lifestyle. Take a lesson from the "no" answers to safeguard your exercise routine.

Indoors

Y/N - Are your aerobics and fitness classes taught on safe floors, i.e. not cement floors which don't give, but wood floors that add extra cushioning under your feet?

Y/N - Do you wear eye protection while playing racquetball?

Y/N - Do you use gloves for hand protection while lifting weights?

Y/N - Are your instructors educated and certified by a reputable association or organization?

Y/N - Have you taken the time to learn proper technique?

Outdoors

Y/N - Do you call out warnings, such as "on your left," to pedestrians or cyclists you pass?

Y/N - Are you alert for potential dangers in your surroundings, such as around dark corners or bushes?

Y/N - Do you avoid pedaling or walking/running with headphones so you can hear traffic or approaching people?

Y/N - If you live or visit a smoggy city, do you exercise in the early morning or late evening when ozone levels are lower?

Y/N - Do you wear appropriate clothing in layers so you avoid overheating or becoming chilled from sweat?

Y/N - Are you aware of the warning signs of heat stress (dizziness, headache, fatigue, muscle cramps and lack of perspiration), and do you allow your body up to 10 days to become accustomed to heat and humidity?

Y/N - Are you familiar with the warning signs of hypothermia (disorientation, sluggishness, slurred speech and stumbling gait), and do you keep your head, hands and ears covered in cold or windy weather to avoid frostbite?

Y/N - If possible, do you avoid routes with mean dogs, but if you are approached, do you stay calm, feign indifference and always face the animal?

Y/N - Do you wear strong sunscreen, hats and sunglasses to avoid dangerous burns?

Some of the questions might bring up issues you'd never thought about. Now's the time to think!

© 1999 Therese Iknoian