Staying fit in the spotlight: some newsmakers take effective steps to maintain good health

FOR those who live their lives in the spotlight, it's often difficult to find the time and the get-up-and-go to make the effort to stay in shape and reduce the stress in their lives. But they realize that every little bit helps and can lead to a well-functioning cardiovascular system and overall better health.

While some top newsmakers work out regularly at health clubs, others find that they can reach their fitness goals in other ways--and enjoy it at the same time.

Dr. Randall W. Maxey, president of the National Medical Association, walks and swims often, and he recommends regular exercise, a balanced diet and regular checkups for better health. On the following pages is a collection of newsmakers and celebrities who try to integrate a regular regimen of exercise into their hectic lives.

SEAN (P. DIDDY) COMBS took his running regimen to new heights when he decided to run in the grueling New York Marathon. Incredibly, he trained for only two months and finished the 26.2-mile course with a respectable time of 4 hours, 14 minutes and 54 seconds. As a result of the race, he raised more than $2 million for the state's public school system and two children's charities.

PAULA MADISON, president and general manager of NBC4 in Los Angeles, is also a runner who recently decided to enter her first marathon. Madison, the first African-American woman to become general manager at a network-owned station in a top-five market, trained for eight months and finished in 7 hours and 16 minutes. She celebrates and is congratulated by Olympic champion Jackie Joyner Kersee.

Washington, D.C., Mayor ANTHONY WILLIAMS tries to fit as much physical activity into his busy political schedule as possible. While making political rounds during the District of Columbia's Democratic primary, he took the opportunity to get a quick workout when he joined a group in a low-impact aerobic class.

With a little imagination and by utilizing certain items in the home, you can get an effective workout without going to the gym. Fitness advocate JHANNIE TOLBERT uses kitchen counters to work his arms and his abdominal muscles in his Excelsior, Minn., home. He believes in being able to stay fit at home, using a low-tech, low-cost approach.

Gospel singer YOLANDA ADAMS, who has received a Grammy Award, the NAACP Image Award and multiple Stellar Awards, tries to work out every day, whether she's at home or on the road. Routine exercise helps her to maintain her weight, relieves stress and gives her the energy to perform at a level that has earned her the respect of critics and the admiration of millions who are tantalized by her unique, powerful voice.