A spoonful of (sports) medicine

Kirill Micallef Stafrace (Free-Of-Charge Exercise Medicine, June 1) conveniently forgot two very important points in my letter of May 18 on the aerobics classes.

I suggested more than "go for a brisk walk" and, at the end, I did say something about it doesn't matter what political party is in power, so there was no "politicising the issue". The accusation of "attempts to shield the local authorities" is something that is misunderstood.

Unlike the good doctor I am not running for office. I am not canvassing for any party and/or candidate. My belief, as stated in my letter, is that we should take stewardship of our well-being in all facets of our life. Having regular physical check-ups is part of that. The government should not be there to take care of us from the cradle to the grave. Yes, elected officials should make sure to use taxpayers' money responsibly to provide the facilities for all citizens to have a good quality of life.

I noticed that Dr Micallef Stafrace was very careful to give his professional suggestions along with his criticism. I can assure the good sports doctor that I didn't need his basic lecture on exercise and sports. Maybe the Health Department has been influenced, perhaps wrongly, by the latest trend among qualified fitness trainers that we should shift away from aerobics.

The good doctor assured us that the Health Department was "the prime organiser". Spoken like a true wannabe politician. When one chooses to criticise, one should have a straight answer. Does the Health Department have full-time, internationally qualified aerobics instructors? Is there anyone there who has enough expertise to assess those who were instructing? So, who provided the teaching staff?

Perhaps when all the dust of this weekend's voting settles, Dr Micallef Stafrace should, as his contribution to the country, give some tests to all politicians. A waist measurement to highlight risk of heart problems should be an easy one. The three factors in TEE will definitely be more accurate.

There's more to say but that's all from me on this subject. I'm loathe to enter into any lengthy debates.