Getting a Line on Fitness

Fitness on Call, the third annual hotline sponsored by the nonprofit San Diego-based American Council on Exercise, drew 1,035 callers last month, more than double since the program’s inception. ACE-certified fitness professionals, sports medicine doctors, dietitians and physical therapists answered calls during the one-day event.

Women made about 80% of the calls, and the average caller’s age was 54. The youngest caller was 13; the eldest, 91.

The most commonly asked questions were:

* What sort of equipment do I need for a home gym?

* What’s the best way to get my stomach in shape?

* How should I start on a strength-training program?

* How can I get the most out of a walking program?

* What’s the truth about supplements?

Some of the oddest questions:

* Should I wear a girdle when I do my cardio workout?

* Are you a live person or an answering machine?