Eric Plaisance, a graduate student in Auburn's Department of Health & Human Performance, was introduced by Michael Tullier. As part of his doctoral studies in the department, Plaisance is researching aerobic exercise, the effects of cholesterol and obesity. In the last 25 years there has been a 60-percent increase in obesity in the U.S., due mainly to physical inactivity and a high intake of high-calorie foods

In 1996, the U.S. surgeon general suggested that every person needs to have a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity a day, three times a week. The benefits of this level of physical activity include weight reduction from burning calories, lower blood pressure, reduction in heart disease, reduction of bad cholesterol (LDL) and an increase in good cholesterol (HDL). In fact, Plaisance's research has shown that even one exercise session helps reduce LDL.

Exercise can be as easy as taking the steps instead of taking the elevator, cutting the grass, walking, jogging and cycling. Weight can be lost if 1,200 to 2,500 calories can be burned per week. Plaisance's TigerFit Laboratory at Auburn, under the direction of Dr. Pete Grandjean, is currently conducting a research study on cholesterol and exercise on male volunteers between the ages of 30 and 65. The study examines the effects of endurance exercise and Vitamin B3 (niacin) on cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin and blood sugar following a meal.

Plaisance (center) with District Governor (and club president-stand in) Shawn Asmuth (left) and program chair Michael Tullier (right)