Calendar
              

        Benefit: The fifth annual Tyler's Run/Walk to benefit the SIDS Alliance of Ohio takes off at 9 a.m. Saturday from Miami Whitewater Park. Registration begins at 7 a.m. for the 5K event. Information: 385-0070 or www.tylersrun.com.

Research
              

        Clear reading: Blood pressure readings taken during exercise more accurately spot early heart disease than readings taken at rest, according to a study from the John Hopkins University School of Medicine.

        The study showed that a high pulse pressure — the difference between the upper number (systolic blood pressure) and the lower number (diastolic blood pressure) — during exercise is associated with a dysfunction of the endothelial cells that line the blood vessels. These cells control blood vessels' ability to dilate, or expand, which allows more blood to flow during stressful situations. Increased pulse pressure also indicates blood-vessel stiffening, which could be a marker for early heart disease. Recent studies have shown that pulse pressure is the leading risk factor for cardiovascular disease in the elderly.

        If blood vessels can't expand during exercise or stress, the heart has to work harder to pump blood and may become enlarged, says Dr. Kerry J. Stewart, lead author of the study and director of cardiac rehabilitation and clinical exercise physiology at Johns Hopkins. An enlarged heart increases the risk of stroke, heart attack or heart failure.

Tips
              

        Finding center: Looking for a program that works out your body and soul?

        Yoga might be the answer, say the experts at the American Council on Exercise.

        The discipline, which is thousands of years old, unites body, mind and spirit through physical postures, breathing techniques and meditation. Yoga improves flexibility, strength and muscle tone.

        Here are some tips on choosing the right yoga class:

        • There are several branches of yoga, and each has a unique focus. Hatha yoga, the most popular, emphasizes concentration and consists of gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. Pranayma yoga focuses on breathing exercises and breath control to enhance vitality and energy. Mantra yoga uses the concentrated repetition of a word or phrase to aid in relaxation and control of the mind.

        • Some people use yoga as their primary way to de-stress. But yoga's a great way to stretch and strengthen the body and mind, and most modern stress-reduction techniques are based on yoga teachings.

        • If you're looking for a yoga class, shop around. Ask questions about the type of yoga being taught and what specific techniques the class emphasizes. Astanga yoga, or power yoga, is very popular right now. It offers a vigorous workout that emphasizes strength and flexibility.

Shelf help
              

        Junior version: OK, here's the sequel — Sugar Busters for Kids(Ballantine; $23.95) by Dr. Samuel S. Andrews, Dr. Morrison C. Bethea, Dr. Luis A. Balart and H. Leighton Steward. The book focuses on cutting back on sugars and carbohydrates in children's diet, arguing that sugar leads to insulin production, which leads to obesity, heart disease, diabetes, etc. Recipes and meal plans are included. Here's a warning: Talk to your pediatrician before putting your child on any kind of restricted-calorie eating plan, and don't forget the exercise component.

        Contact Peggy O'Farrell by phone: 768-8510; fax: 768-8330; email: pofarrell@enquirer.com.

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