When I see images of cyclists riding in past Tours de France, they look odd to me. I recognize the riders, but they aren't wearing helmets. But over the course of the last decade, helmets became mandatory in the most prestigious bike race in the world. Wearing a helmet is the simplest safety precaution you can take to protect your most important body part: your brain. Even though most casual Read more

A few times a month, I run with a running group near me. For the most part, everyone is really supportive and there just to meet fellow fit people, learn some tips, and get in a good run. Recently though I overheard some runners badmouthing walkers. As they jogged passed them, one of the runners smirked under their breath, "Walking is for people who don't have the guts to run," and their two pals Read more

I don't have to tell you that economically speaking, times are tough. Many stores and companies are actually cutting prices to help lure customers to their businesses, but not my gym. Oh no. They've actually raised membership prices by $10 a month! That's no small amount, especially because my hubby belongs too, so that adds an extra $240 a year. It really bothers me that they can take advantage Read more

I don't know too many people who enjoy trying on clothes in dressing rooms. Not only is it annoying that sizing varies so much from store to store, but the ginormous mirror and bright lights are utterly unforgiving. You can end up spending more time criticizing your imperfections than checking out the clothes! Store designers must know the emotional pain we endure in those tiny rooms, and that's Read more

I planned a two hour family hike last weekend and everything was going well, until my little daughter stepped in dog poo. I was so thoroughly disgusted. Not by the smell, but by the irresponsible hikers that walked the trail before us. Not to be gross, but the doggy deposit was definitely fresh. As we were hiking up the mountain, I tried not to glare at every hiker we passed with a pooch. I have Read more

There's a gym near me that has tootsie rolls by the front door, and that's not all the goodies they offer. In the lobby they have a bunch of stand-up tanning beds, and one of the memberships perks is unlimited use. WTF? To me, this is the equivalent of going on a 2-hour hike, getting to the top of the mountain and lighting up a cigarette. Doesn't it strike you as an oxymoron? You join our gym to Read more