That's Fit

If you're into environmental sustainability, you may be teaching those good habits to your kids (let's hope so). Using recycled paper at home for those coloring and writing projects and using the insides of cereal boxes for finger painting are only a few ways to bestow eco habits to the kids.

These actions may seem odd to your child at first, but it paves the way to giving an explanation why it is everyone's job to help conserve resources in an age when we're overusing many of them.

I mean, how hard is it to toss all glass, plastic and newspaper into a recycling bin? The point is that it is not hard, and you may be showing others how to really contribute to the health of the planet.

Travel for a living and smoke as a main habit? If so, I would not want to be in your shoes right now. With smoking bans becoming more popular all the time, and with many hotels and public places not accommodating smokers at all these days, where do you go to light up?

Hardly anywhere, that's where. The frustration of traveling smokers must have reached a fever pitch by now, which is all the more reason for habitual smokers to re-examine dumping the habit permanently.

While some hotel chains and independent motels still allow smoking in some forms, that number will dwindle in the coming years. But if you quit now, that frustration will end along with filling your wallet or purse back up -- and your lungs.

It's amazing the amount of passengers on airlines these days. Even though we're more connected than ever, business airline travel has never been more fruitful and consumers are apparently flying more than ever (for vacations, I suppose?).

In 2006, there were an estimated 2.1 billion airline passengers flying around the planet. Can you imagine the amount of airborne ailments accompanying some of those passengers? The World Health Organization (WHO) can certainly imagine it.

The WHO said that infectious diseases are spreading faster than ever before, most likely due to the sheer amount of people in planes who are indirectly contacting all those other passengers in an endless chain reaction. Want proof? When the WHO Director-General states that "new diseases are emerging at the historically unprecedented rate of one per year," that is pretty serious, folks. Will you wear a gas mask on your next flight?

When you think of ways that one might draw attention to global warming, the first thing that comes to mind may not be standing on top of a glacier...naked. But that's what several volunteers will be doing when Spencer Tunick -- who is famous for other naked-people-in-public-places pictures -- gathers them together for a photo shoot to highlight the shrinking Swiss glaciers.

The photo shoot was requested by Greenpeace, but before you run out to buy those plane tickets so that you can participate, you may want to reconsider. Because this is meant to be a green event, sponsors ask that participants use public transportation to get to the event and don't fly. I guess that means that any Americans who want to take off their clothes in the name of global warming will have to do so somewhere else!

For those who love the open road and exploring the best (and often the weirdest) that North America has to offer, road trips are often one of the best possible ways to spend a holiday. The problem is, gas costs continue to rise making things much more expensive for road warriors, and long auto excursions are definitely not great when it comes to aiding our damaged environment.

For those who are concerned about the planet (as well as their cash flow), but for whom a road trip is still the only way to travel, this article lists a few ways to help make your time in the car both more Eco-and wallet-friendly. Suggestions include renting a hybrid or, if that's not possible, a vehicle that is very fuel-efficient. Road-trekkers should try to ensure their own car is as fuel-efficient as possible by making sure the air filter is clean and that the tires are properly inflated.

Other ideas include shortening the amount of overall miles covered in order to focus on the most impressive and interesting parts of a journey, or ditching the vehicle altogether in favor of a more-unique cross-country trip by train.

In the wake of all of the Live Earth concerts that took place over the weekend, I thought it would be interesting to chat about the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner jet. Unveiled on Sunday, the airplane has definitely got people talking (just google 'Boeing Dreamliner' and you'll see what I mean).

It's a fact that normal airplanes use up tonnes of fuel and cause a huge amount of pollution. This new green machine seats up to 330 passengers, but on a long-haul flight uses 20% less fuel than a regular, similarly-sized airplane. In addition, it releases far fewer greenhouse emissions than other planes.

Not only is this good news for everyone because it's better for the environment, it will also hopefully be good for our wallets. Flights keep getting more expensive, in part because of the rising cost of gasoline. In theory, if the Dreamliner uses less fuel, airlines that utilize the jet will spend less on gas, making it possible for them to charge less for tickets. Whether or not this will actually happen remains to be seen, but since it's an Eco-friendly option either way, I'm definitely on board.

Although China has a population of more than a billion people, almost half a million of those die each year due to pollution, according to a study by the World Bank.

The pollution comes in the form of dirty air and drinking water, which is not surprising considering the staggering amount of industrial and commercial growth in China in just the last decade.

Citing possible civil unrest, the Chinese government suggested that the actual figures not be published, but they were anyway, even though some physical and economic costs have been dropped from the public version of the report due to calculation methods not having the needed level of accuracy.

As it's summer, it's natural to want to spend all of your time outside. Few things feel better after a freezing cold winter than thawing out in the warm summer sun. Loads of people are about to embark on holidays that will allow them to spend as much time as possible enjoying the great outdoors. It's important though, to remember that our planet is in a pretty precarious situation and so it's a good idea to keep the 5 tips listed here in mind in order to leave as little evidence of your presence behind as possible.

Outdoor enthusiasts need to remember to bring reusable containers for food in order to keep campsites as tidy as possible and it's always a good idea to admire local wildlife from afar. Not only can they be dangerous, but human presence can disturb their mating season as well as their regular habits. And always remember not to feed wild animals. In addition, there are some other great ideas listed in the article for those about to take off on an outdoor adventure, so make sure to check them out before you go.

Whether it's your first time or your 100th, planning a camping trip is a lesson in balance. A good camper has packs everything he or she needs, but doesn't overload car or backpack in the process. That's why creating a checklist -- and storing it with your camping gear -- can make preparing for your outdoor adventure a lot simpler. I learned that tip, and 19 other great camping ideas reading this article at RealBuzz. Here are tips I like:

• If your equipment is new or you're new to camping, practice setting up your tent in your yard before you go.
• Mark guy lines with reflective tape to avoid tripping over them.
• Protect your tent by putting a sheet of heavy plastic underneath.
• Scout your campsite for obvious dangers (holes, overhanging branches) and pitch your tent on level ground that isn't too close to a river or beach to avoid waking up in rising waters!
• Avoid the crowds by planning your trip before the peak season begins.
• Bring plenty of litter bags to keep your campsite neat and clean up after yourself when you leave.

The only tip I wouldn't use #13, which says to store your food in your tent to discourage scavengers. When camping in bear country, it's usually not advisable to keep food in your tent! Invest in a bear-proof food container, store food in the trunk of your car, or suspend food from trees instead.

So, That's Fit campers...what's this list missing? Take a minute to add your favorite camping tips to the list!

It's no secret that one of the biggest health problems facing humanity right now is the health of the planet on which we live. Whether or not you believe in global warming (and there are plenty of folks who don't), it is hard to ignore that the Earth is not receiving the kind of treatment from its inhabitants that it rightly deserves.

Many are slow to begin making even small changes like the three R's - reducing, reusing and recycling for those not in the know. Mother Earth has got some pretty big guns on her side though, as loads of incredibly famous celebrities are making sure to do their part and also making sure that people know about it.

While the efforts of a few, or even a few hundred, celebs may not be enough to turn things around, they can certainly generate a bunch of publicity and awareness. And as we all know, what's popular among the beautiful and famous tends to become trendy across the globe pretty quick. So check out this list of stars who are doing their part to save the planet and think of what changes you can make to do yours.

Seems that some teens and young adults these days are angry -- at the world, themselves, their parents, their teachers and each other. Are video games brewing this violence? The media? Music? Who knows -- but many kids are just downright mad.

That could lead some of them to have reduced lung capacity, according to a new report. In the journal Health Psychology, which looked at forced expiratory volume and other factors that involve lung function.

It's been noted before that hostility is linked to heart disease and even an overall risk of death, but this was the first time a linkage between being hostile and lung problems was found. Wow -- how do we get rid of all that hostility, then? Remember, it's a choice.

Last week, I arrived early for an appointment downtown. The office is in a typical Chicago high-rise, filled with residences for ladies with little dogs and offices and with a main floor filled with little shops and grocery stores. I love to get to this building with a little extra time because it is home to a long-established drug store that carries fabulous beauty products, organic children's clothes and specialty items you'd never find in a Walgreen's.

Just inside that little drugstore, I walked into a display that I am pretty sure was calling my name. There at the entrance, were lollipop-colored workout bags that made me detour from the shampoos, moisturizers and flowery body mists, made me squeal, and actually made me want to work out.

The display was inspired by Oprah's O List, where these luscious, quilted Lug Travel bags in fabulous colors were featured last year. I pulled each style down, ran my hand over the silky fabric, wiggled my fingers in each of the pockets, imagined where I'd put my cell phone, my gym card, my lip gloss, my heart rate monitor. My inspection was thorough, as it should be, especially for bags that run $50 and up.

I know, I know. Why spend $50, $60, $70 on a bag to hold your stinky sneaks and sweaty jog bra? I asked the question of myself as I simultaneously tried to justify buying one style in lime green and another in hot pink.

Let me convince you:
First, you probably have a styley little handbag for going out for drinks with a girlfriend or dinner with a beau. You probably have a more practical but also adorable purse you carry to work and to drop the kids off at daycare. And you very likely have rolling suitcases in red, a monogrammed carry-on, a flashy little cosmetic case (even if you got it free in a bonus) and other travel gear that (nearly) holds all your attire and is distinguishable as yours. Why not have a workout bag that makes you smile as well?

Second, if you are need of an extra boost to get to open lap swim or stop off at gyrotonics after work, then you need a bag that is fun to fill up. Third, if you are or are becoming an athlete, then it is valid to have a bag that holds your fitness gear so you can stop losing what you need in a heap thrown into a plastic grocery sack.

Now that you are convinced (or are at least considering), drool with me a bit over these Lug bags:

The Puddle Jumper Gym Bag is full of compartments that are fun to find. I love the plastic-lined and ventilated zip-pocket at the bottom of the bag that will keep your shoes separated from the rest of your gear or that would be a great place to stow any damp or not-so-demure smelling clothing. There's an interior mirror, bottle pocket and card holder, as well a many other fun-to-find (and fill) pockets that will keep you well-stocked and still organized. The metal feet and plastic coating on the bottom of the bag mean that you won't curse when you accidentally set it down in a puddle at the bus stop or have to store it in a not-so-tidy locker.

Do note that, as with the other bags, the photos on the website do not do them justice!



The MOPED Day Pack is smaller, lighter weight and slimmer but also has the same big compartment styling as the Puddle Jumper. Since I carry a water bottle everywhere and this bag has a handy interior pocket just for them, I can see myself using the Day Pack as an everyday tote.

The Day Pack would also be great for those classes that you wear your gear to or don't require lugging as much stuff along. I estimate that it has room for an extra folded t-shirt or swimsuit, but the nicety of this bag is that isn't intended to be too bulky. One more detail I adore: No Velcro to snag on your wicking tank tops or socks.

The Day Pack would also be a great gift for your favorite fit guy or for your active dad for Father's Day.


The Tango Travel Wallet also caught my eye. While it would work brilliantly in keeping travel documents, tickets, IDs and cash handy while you jet-set, I think it would also be nice for those folks who like to carry a class schedule or their trainer's brochure. The bright colors compliment the bags and the construction feels as sturdy as you'd need and expect from your practical gear.

If you're really lucky, you might just need one of these beauties for a yoga retreat or spa getaway!

If you're thinking what I'm thinking -- that one of these bags would make a great reward for hitting a hard-sought goal and maybe even give me an extra boost of motivation to dial up my activity -- then I really recommend that you check out all the Lug wares I've been lusting after all week. You might just end up with a sweet summer treat for yourself that may just help you burn off cals rather than add them on. Enjoy!

With Memorial Day officially behind us, the vacation season has officially begun. Though travel in and of itself isn't a "green" practice, there are ways to make your vacation time more earth-conscious. Why not consider a vacation to an eco-friendly location? Check out this slideshow from iGoGreen for inspiration. Your vacation may include a hike through the great outdoors to better appreciate the Earth, or may take you on a tour through a planned community that was built in an environmentally responsible way. Maybe you'll visit a farm that encourages sustainable living, so your kids learn that milk comes from a cow and not from the dairy cooler at your local store. Or maybe you'll pedal your way through a pedestrian-friendly city, seeing the sites without contributing to pollution. Though that slide show only has 11 locations, the options truly are endless.

Where are you off to this summer?

Even have the mental push t get out of the house or office and just do something outside? The time of year where the world is your oyster is already upon us, but making use of what is "out there" is entirely up to you.

Walking outside is a great thing to do these days when the temperature is conducive to the activity and you want to get a breath of fresh air. Personally, hiking is an activity I use to relieve stress and get that incredibly healthy dose of fresh air.

There's nothing quite like walking and hiking in nature: around trees and grounds and through small hills and other obstacles. Breaking out a small sweat is good, and getting exercise is ever better. The real joy, though, is the feeling you get outside. It just can't be beat.

Is the planet consistently becoming warmer? Scientists the world over have evidence of global warming, yet the methods that produce this kind of environment are being ignored in many ways. Even if the planet is not warming up, is it a good idea to cut the emissions of greenhouse gases?

Don't tell this to the U.S. Senate, which defeated a proposal yesterday that would have required the Army Corps of Engineers (CoE) to consider the impact of climate change in designing water resources projects. This is a big deal, since the CoE designs massive lakes and rivers used in many states.

I'm not sure of the possible political nonsense that caused a proposal like this not to be passed (what could be the reason, I wonder), but designing a "green" lifestyle and trying to reduce the amount of contribution to possible warming of our planet still sounds like something all people and organizations should be involved in, right?