I do mostly short runs but I prefer long bike trips. I also hit the bag since I boxed quite a lot before. I used to lift weights before also, but I now prefer a leaner, lighter body frame. If given time, I wish to learn some MMA [mixed martial arts] skills.
Why do you do this regimen? What is your greatest motivation for doing it?
Staying fit and healthy really helps you deal with stress a lot better, and improves your mental and physical disposition.
How do you balance an exercise regimen with a Vice Mayor’s job to lead meetings, comply with appointments, visit barangays, etc?
Without proper time management, it is difficult. I prefer to exercise in the afternoons but if pressed for time because of work or other commitments, I sometimes would have to go out early morning or evening just to break a sweat.
How about food intake? (There’s lots of eating in government meetings.) What do you eat? What do you try to avoid?
I prefer fish over red meat. I go out of my way to eat vegetables and fruits. I’m not too concerned with following a strict diet, even before runs, and my body metabolizes quite efficiently. I don’t smoke; I take alcohol sparingly. I hardly drink soda at all, or anything that’s too sweet for my taste buds.
What physical activities did you do in the US Military Academy at West Point? What values did you learn there?
As to values, I try my best to be self-disciplined, and to persevere, especially when things get rough; the mind is much stronger than we give it credit for.
Who’s your best exercise buddy?
I occasionally go with my wife when she’s out for a walk or a short run. During long runs or bikes, I, of course, prefer a buddy, but sometimes, it’s hard to find one because of conflict of schedules.
What do you think about running groups or biking groups or walk/yoga classes sprouting in the City?
It’s really amazing, and kudos to the organizers and participants. It’s not surprising to see young people, some as young as four or five years old, huffing and puffing all over the place. Our home is really going athletic, and if we keep this up, soon we can stake a solid claim, nationally, to be a very athletic, and very liveable City.
Are you keeping fit/healthy in time for the mayoralty elections in 2013?
No, I’ve been trying to keep fit since high school, long before I joined politics. Nevertheless, the campaign trail is an exercise regimen in itself, and a lot of candidates I know would claim they’ve lost a few pounds merely walking up and down our City.
