FITNESS PROFILE
Working student steps up exercise for paddling season

By Paula Rath
Advertiser Staff Writer

Kristin Lee learned the importance of regimented workouts while on the paddling and kayaking teams in high school. She continues to exercise every day, either by running or doing something that gets her heart rate up for 30 minutes minimum. Rebecca Breyer • The Honolulu Advertiser

Age: 26

Profession: Student of graphic design and bookkeeper for family business

Height/weight: 5' 5", 107 lbs.

Workout habits: During paddling season, my workout habits are pretty rigorous. We have a six-man practice three times a week, with an extra one-man practice during distance season. I also try to get in a one-man practice on my own every week. During the season, I also run about three or four times per week, from 2 to 4 miles. After I run, I do two sets of 100 crunches, variations of sit-ups and two sets of 20 push-ups. When paddling is over, I pretty much just run, do ab-work and push-ups. I try to run every day, or at least do something that gets my heart rate up for 30 minutes minimum. I like the hills in Manoa and around Diamond Head. Running on flat ground for an hour is boring to me.

When and why I started working out: I always played sports, paddled and surfed when I was younger, but the paddling and kayaking teams in high school introduced me to regimented workout routines. Cross-training was two-thirds of our workout, and I learned the importance of it.

My good foods/bad foods: I try to eat some fruit, green vegetables and protein every day because it's good for me. And I drink a ton of water. Other than that, my favorite foods are french fries and all carbohydrates, such as pasta, bread and sweets.

My biggest motivator: Being fit and feeling healthy. When I'm in shape, I want to stay that way.

My biggest roadblock to fitness: Between work and school, sometimes it's hard to find the time to work out.

What saves my sanity: It's important to have good daily habits and routines incorpo-rated into life which benefit my mind and body. This way, when stress comes around, my mind and body have a good foundation to counter it rather than get slowed down by it.

My next challenge: I need to find one.

Advice for those in the same boat: Working out should be fun, not a chore. If you make a point to try to do some sort of physical activity every day such as walking, hiking, swimming at the beach, surfing or dancing, exercise won't seem like a chore.