The Greening Of Fitness

SUSTAINABLE LIVING | by MOLLY MARTIN

THE WORLD OF FITNESS OFTEN SEEMS TO RUN COUNTER to the green movement: plastic infomercial equipment destined for storage lockers, garage sales and landfills; millions of discarded water bottles; memberships to clubs filled with elaborate machines instead of local walks, runs and exercises using one’s own body weight.

SOURCE: PATAGONIA.COM

But some green fitness efforts are breaking through, giving the opportunity to feel doubly good about your workout:

• BPA-free water bottles address both reduce the mound of used bottles and concerns over Bisphenol A.
• Used workout gear is hardly enticing, but you can find new clothes and shoes made with recycled ingredients.
• A movement started in Great Britain helps folks get their exercise while working on environmental conservation.
• You can even use your workout to power your gym or (part of) your home.

And, perhaps one day, your daily walk will also charge your cell phone. Or much more.