The factors affecting long-term participation in exercise training programs are examined, and educational and motivational suggestions are presented for the exercise leader or fitness program coordinator to use in order to stimulate interest and enthusiasm among program participants. (MM)

While all subjects improved on personality factors measuring social precision, persistence, and control after a physical fitness program of jogging, calisthenics, and recreational activities, a longer and intensified period of regular exercise is necessary to cause a dramatic change in personality parameters.

The problems facing older adults when coping with mandatory retirement are discussed. Existing programs, volunteer and government sponsored, are briefly described. Specifically emphasized is the need to recognize the importance of regular physical exercise to maintain health and widen horizons. (JD)

This document makes a number of observations about physical fitness in America. Among them are: (1) the symptoms of aging (fat accumulation, lowered basal metabolic rate, loss of muscular strength, reduction in motor fitness, reduction in work capacity, etc.) are not the result of disease but disuse; (2) society conditions the individual to…