Q. The skin under my upper arm seems to move a long time after I have stopped. In other words, it is very flabby. I am not a weightlifter and don't want to become one (I am 67). How can I firm up that area?

A. I know exactly what you mean. As we age our skin does lose firmness, so we will always have a bit of a wiggle (even though my arms are in great shape, there is a wiggle). We can, however, cut down on the flab and have arms we are proud of if we do strength work. I am not suggesting becoming a weight lifter, but even light (3 to 5 lb. weights will help).

Keep your elbows back, arms close to your sides, and slowly take those weights from front to back, breathing out as you take them back, in as they come forward. Do as many reps as you can every other day, and you will be amazed at how quickly you will notice the difference in your arms.

Q. I enjoy reading your articles but all I can do is read about it. I am an older gal with some arthritis and I can't imagine doing some of the things you write about. Are there any things those of us who are less fit can do to improve? I can't jump around or lift heavy things. It is often a strain getting out of the chair. Any advice?

A. Before you take on any exercise program, be sure to check with your physician. The present day theory is for those with arthritis to engage in physical activity (it helps, but there are so many different kinds of arthritis, make sure you check).

Light weight work (or even lifting your legs and arms, using the weight of your body for resistance) will usually improve your physical shape. Even lifting your legs and arms while in the chair can help.

I also suggest a lot of walking, the more the better. My mother had terrible arthritis and took to her bed, which only made matters worse. I have students with arthritis who at least move around to the music and feel a lot better. The point to remember is to do what you can do, but move!

Q. You mentioned to watch out for quick turns. A few years ago I made a sharp turn and it took several months for the back of my knee to heal. I had never heard this advice before. No one seemed to know what I was talking about. Can you tell us more about what happens?

A. The knees, along with the shoulders, feet, ankles, and lower legs are the locations that receive the most stress during aerobic activity and, therefore, are the most prone to strain. When we do heavy jumping and/or quick turning we are adding extra stress, especially on the supporting ligaments of the knee joint, either weakening it over time or causing an injury, like the one you mentioned.

Exercises that strengthen the quadriceps will help with the protection of the knees and being sufficiently warm when exercising will also help. But I also feel that it is a good idea to cut down on the stress created by quick and abrupt turns.

As always, check with your own healtcare professional before undertaking any diet or exercise program.