By Dan Courtney, NIFS Correspondent

When Heidi Hutchinson traveled to Madagascar last July, she was happy she was in tip-top shape thanks in part to her training at the National Institute for Fitness and Sport.
“There were 2 – 3 days when we hiked for 20 miles a day,” said the Canterbury, N.H., resident. “Even though it was winter there, the temperatures were in the 90s and the hiking trails were sandy and steep.”

Hutchinson volunteered with the Earthwatch Institute for 19 days studying the carnivores. During her hiking, she encountered everything from snakes to scorpions to crocodiles.

“It was very physical, but I loved it,” said Hutchinson, who runs three days a week and trains with weights another three days at the local NIFS Health and Fitness Center.
Grueling hikes are nothing new to Hutchinson. She has run marathons and competed in triathlons. She also ran the Mt. Washington Road Race which was basically a 7.5-mile run straight up the side of the mountain.

“It is nice to have NIFS right here at work,” said the fit 5-foot-5, 130-pounder. “I can go on my lunch break. I have to go work out because I feel so much better after I do.”
The former college basketball and field hockey player is a firm believer in nutrition. It’s the one key ingredient often overlooked by people trying to get their bodies back in shape. Hutchinson is not big on junk food and has her own garden.

“We drink our milk straight from the cow,” added Hutchinson.

When the weather turns cold and snowy in New Hampshire, Hutchinson does not hibernate. Along with snowshoeing and backcountry skiing, she coordinates downhill skiing classes for young kids.

“It is hard sometimes for people to find time to work out with their busy lives. With 24 hours in a day, I have always tried to set aside at least one hour to work out,” added Hutchinson.

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