“People say this is a sickness,” Barb Crawford said of her family’s daily workouts. Barb and Gary Crawford of Libertyville, both 51, have been athletic, outdoorsy people all of their adult lives. Gary, an insurance executive, and Barb, a 1st grade teacher, work out at the Centre Club in Libertyville. Joining them is daughter Kelly Crawford, 22, also a 1st grade teacher.
Regimen
At 5 a.m. on weekdays and a lazy 7 a.m. on weekends, all three Crawfords can be found running, lifting weights or working on various exercise machines. “We used to work out later,” Barb said, “but our schedules got so crazy, we started going in early.” They work out for an hour.
Barb typically will run four or five miles with her daughter, then spend the 20 minutes or so she has left on weights or machines. Gary limits his running because of back problems but still tries for a mile or so before going to machines or weights.
Tips
“First of all, go slow,” Barb cautioned. “Walking is really one of the best things you can do. If somebody is brand new, that probably is the best way to start.”
What to avoid
“I’m guilty of this,” Barb said. “But know when to stop. You have to listen to your body.”
Benefits
“You feel wonderful,” Barb said. “It helps to keep your weight down, and I think it gives you a younger look.”
Staying motivated
The desire to stay healthy. “I think my biggest fear is losing my mobility,” Barb said.
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