Also: Ask Dr. Tedd Mitchell a health question

Dr. Tedd's new book, "Move Yourself"

A quick Q&A with our HealthSmart expert

By Dennis McCafferty

For a decade, USA WEEKEND Magazine readers have gained valuable insights into personal health, thanks to HealthSmart columnist Dr. Tedd Mitchell, president of the esteemed Cooper Clinic in Dallas. And now, his new book, "Move Yourself" (John Wiley & Sons, $24.95), serves up science-backed testimony supporting his "move-it" mantra. In the book, he demonstrates how anyone can incorporate physical activity into his or her life. Here's more about Mitchell's views on weekend warriors, creative exercises and the benefits of the Wii game console:

Why did you write this book now?
Mitchell: First, there's research that we did at the Cooper Aerobics Center, where we found that physical activity can increase energy, promote better sleep, and reduce pain in joints, muscles and the back. We concluded that even one's sex life can get a boost from exercise. Now, I can talk to patients for hours about being active, and sometimes I feel like I'm talking to a wall. But when I tell them it can improve their sex lives, I suddenly get their attention!

How do you address the classic excuse that there's no time to exercise or go to the gym during the week?
Mitchell: You don't have to go to the gym. We can get exercise while shopping at the mall or working at the office. During the workday, I'll take mini-breaks where I walk up and down the stairwells and around the floors. You can walk the stairs in your office building rather than take the elevator, or avoid the escalator at a mall, or walk to the store from home instead of getting in a car -- all of these can become life-long, healthy habits.

You discourage the weekend warrior mentality. But isn't doing something better than nothing?
Mitchell: Yes. In my field, anything is better than nothing. But if you only play, say, 50 minutes of basketball on Saturdays and Sundays, you'll put yourself at greater risk for orthopedic problems and torn muscles as you age. I tell weekend warriors: "Great. You're doing something. Now, let's fit something else in during the week, maybe once or twice. How about 20 minutes of walking?"

Is there ever a point where people shouldn't exercise at all?
Mitchell: Not from where I stand. I'll see people with blood pressure that's sky high, and I tell them that we need to get that under control with proper medication. Then we're going to get you active in a gradual way, with five-minute walks.

How has your own approach to exercise changed over time?
Mitchell: I used to swim competitively and kickbox. When I'd exercise, I'd think about that great roundhouse kick that I was goingto do. When you're sports-focused, you're only thinking about the great moves you'll make and winning. Injuries can happen when you're not necessarily thinking about exercising and performing in a safe way. Now I'm not thinking about beating someone; I'm thinking about improving my times and performances.

You've been critical of game consoles. But can the Wii save today's kids?
Mitchell: [Laughs.] If you look at calories burned while playing with a Wii vs. the traditional console, I'm sure you'll see a huge difference. The Wii may be the first of a number of devices that will come out and get young people on their feet more. And that's a good thing.