Space Case

EXERCISE

Physical activity is an important part of a healthy lifestyle on earth—and on the moon it’s even more important. Due to the significantly lower gravity on the moon (only one-sixth that of earth!) your muscles won’t have to work nearly as hard at MBA. But while this sounds relaxing, it can have serious consequences. Muscles that would normally be worked by moderate exercise—such as walking, lifting objects, or even simply sitting upright—may begin to atrophy on the lunar surface from disuse. If this is allowed to continue unchecked, you might return to earth to find your muscles have weakened to the point where you can’t even stand up! In addition, without the usual force of gravity placed on them, your bones can begin to lose density on the moon.

Don’t fear, however! There is a simple solution that will prevent both muscle and bone loss and provide plenty of enjoyment: exercise! MBA has a full-service gym equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. To counteract the effects of low gravity, at least two hours of exercise are suggested every day—although even more can’t hurt! Exercise should be divided between endurance (treadmills, StairMasters, stationary bikes) and muscle-building (resistance bands) with perhaps a bit more emphasis on resistance to fight that pesky muscular deterioration.

All lunarnauts should keep a detailed record of their exercise so that their health, muscle strength, and bone density can be accurately tracked and measured—but that doesn’t mean working out has to be a chore! Watch a movie or read a book while you’re on the machines, or better yet, exercise with a friend. At MBA, staying in shape can be just as much fun as it is back on earth—if not more!