FitnessMagazine.com—June 1, 2007
She's a hand surgeon who puts in 80-hour workweeks while living the single life in bustling New York City. Yet 33-year-old Nina Lightdale, M.D., a fellow at the renowned Hospital for Special Surgery in Manhattan, still manages to run several races a year in preparation for the New York City Marathon. Lightdale tells FitnessMagazine.com that her motivation to stay in shape is actually a direct result of the heavy demands of her challenging career. Being a doctor, says Lightdale, means "giving of myself all day long. When I put on my running shoes, I know I'm about to do something just for me."
Model doc: "It is important to patients that I lead by example. When I suggest that someone lose weight or get fit, I want to be seen as a symbol of strength. If I look strong, healthy, well-rested, and energized, it builds my patients' trust in me."
Stress release: "When I run after work, I tend to enjoy it more because it helps me work out the frustrations of the day. In the morning I often feel like I'm rushing to get my workout done. If I'm lucky I get to run three or four days a week, but I always commit to a long run every weekend."
***
Weighting it out: "Last year I had tendinitis in my Achilles, so I started stretching a lot. I began to run more around the reservoir in Central Park, which has a dirt path instead of pavement. Since my injury, I've started cross-training, adding spinning classes and strength training to my workouts. Even though I'd rather be running than lifting weights, I know varying my routine is going to make my running better and safer."
***
Excuse buster: "My work schedule and the demands of my job are great reasons to never exercise. Don't make excuses! Take time for yourself. Staying fit will improve your life in every respect."
212.606.1197
mediarelations@hss.edu