Life fitness: SP Raymond Mak hits the running machine in the PHQ gym

Soon there will be no more excuses for being out of shape with the Keep Fit for Tomorrow 30-minute exercise promotion scheme launching November 1.

Organised by the Police Healthy Lifestyle Working Group, the programme is to encourage all staff to partake in sports and exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, two days a week in Phase One (November 1 to December 31), building to three in Phase Two (January 1 to February 28).

Sports and Recreation Division Superintendent Raymond Mak Kwai-sing said any sport or activity would be acceptable, from jogging, tai chi and swimming, right down to a simple walk in the park.

"The thing is, we have to trust that the participants are actually meeting the requirements of the various phases of the scheme. However, this should not be too much of a problem as the exercise is in participants' own interest anyway," SP Mak said.

"People always have so many excuses for not exercising, being 'too busy' or whatever. And what amazes me is that after they say this, they always manage to find the time to watch television or play on their computers! "But regular exercise is so important for health and well being, people should allocate regular time for it. It can also be really fun and satisfying too"

SP Mak said conducting the programme with a friend or family member would not only ensure the requirements were met, but also make the training more fun and challenging.

He said the approaching cooler weather of winter would be another participation incentive for new comers unfamiliar with exercise.

Those taking part must complete an Exercise Record Card indicating their participation in each phase and have a colleague sign it for confirmation, before returning it to their Training and Staff Relations Officers.

They will then receive souvenirs such as sports water bottles and warrant card holders for completing the phase, and be eligible to enter lucky draws with tentative prizes including stays at Resort City in Tin Shui Wai.

All participants will also receive Department of Health leaflets on safe exercise to study and help them get the most out of the programme.

"By the end of the scheme we hope participants will have developed a good interest in daily exercise and be motivated to continue the daily routine on their own. Doctors say the benefits of exercise are not only physical, it also gives a mental and emotional boost," he said.

Entry forms will be delivered to TSROs, and the Police Officers' and Police Sports and Recreation Clubs in late October.

For enquiries, call 2804-1113.

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