Less is less — a poem

photo of toes grasping the branch of a bush

Wiggle your toes! Even this exercise is so much better than no exercise.

Less is less

Some cannot live without moving
they have to run or ride each day
or they’re only half alive—
they were born that way.
Others need reminding.
Journalists report exactly
what we want to know:
“You can get fit on a minute a day
(a study of six has shown).
Just wiggle your nose and two of your toes
it’s better than nothing and you are done.”

They’re right: it’s better than nothing.
They’re wrong: we’re are not done.


Poem by Rachel McAlpine 2019

Podcast episode featuring this poem: Fit and strong in old age: exercise, obviously

15 thoughts on “Less is less — a poem

  1. I like the skipping idea!

    1. Rachel McAlpine says:

      It’s fun and funny:)

  2. Dan Antion says:

    If I’m stuck inside, I look for opportunities to walk, bend, lift – every little bit helps.

    1. Rachel McAlpine says:

      It sure does help. And doesn’t it feel good?

      1. Dan Antion says:

        It does.

  3. Elizabeth says:

    Drats. I was counting on opening and closing my eyes as counting!

    1. Rachel McAlpine says:

      If you do two sets of 15 and used all your strength, I’m sure that counts.

      1. Elizabeth says:

        By the time I have closed them twice I am asleep.

      2. Rachel McAlpine says:

        Sleep is precious but it doesn’t multitask as exercise, no.

      3. Elizabeth says:

        Can’t blame a girl for trying.

  4. Suzanne says:

    I am one of those who loves exercising, not a chore at all. What I would like to do more of is writing poems. Something to learn more about in 2020.

    1. Rachel McAlpine says:

      That sounds like fun. You might like my little haiku course on Udemy.

      1. Suzanne says:

        I will check it out Rachel as I didn’t realise you did courses. Online?

      2. Rachel McAlpine says:

        I’ve only done two 🙂 See Udemy.com, search for Write haiku love poems and thrill the one you love.

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