Busy Lifestyle

People of all ages and physical conditions benefit from exercise and physical activity. These stories feature diverse older adults and the activities they enjoy. If you are age 50 years or older and exercise regularly, we invite you to send us your story.
Jane Q Biking
Jane Q., age 61
"I was a Registered Nurse for 15 years, so I understand how important a healthy lifestyle is. I enjoy skiing, biking, walking, and canoeing. I’ve spent the last 10 years as a Finish Line Catcher for the Wisconsin Ironman...
Irene, age 66
"Irene exercises to stay active with her grandchildren."
Linda, age 60
"Linda uses Go4Life exercises at work."
Luis, 65, and Susanna, 60s
"Working out at home with Go4Life saves Luis and Susanna time!"
Nora D. Volkow, M.D., Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse at NIH
"Dr. Volkow, who jogs regularly, tells how exercise helps her cope with stress."
Patricia Grady, Ph.D., Director, National Institute of Nursing Research at NIH
"Dr. Grady suggests exercising with a buddy and demonstrates her personal exercise program."
Josephine P. Briggs, M.D., Director of the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine at NIH
"Dr. Briggs talks about how she's made biking part of her everyday life."
Francis S. Collins, M.D., Director, National Institutes of Health
"Dr. Collins describes how playing volleyball helps him stay active and healthy."
Marie A. Bernard, M.D., Deputy Director, National Institute on Aging at NIH
"Dr. Bernard explains the health benefits of and her passion for practicing yoga regularly. "
Richard J. Hodes, M.D., Director, National Institute on Aging at NIH
"Dr. Hodes explains why regular physical activity is important to him and adults of all ages."
Florence C., age 65
"I turn 65 this year, and I love living life to its fullest through both my academic position and my volunteer service as president of the American Occupational Therapy Association. Life can be hectic, but I discovered a...
Ken, age 80
"At least 5 days a week I ride 11 miles on my stationary bike. This has been my exercise for the past 8 years. I also lift light weights and do some stretching exercises with an exercise ball. Prior to that, I was a 5-...
Joan, age 81
"Fitness is something we all must maintain. I am 81and had total hip replacement 3 years ago. My workouts have been wonderful for complete good health and recovery. I have attended our local fitness recreation center for 6...
Sam, age 84
"I started exercising regularly way back in 1960. A friend put me in touch with a personal trainer at a nearby gym, and he showed me how to lift weights. Today, at age 83, I'm still exercising to stay fit. I get up...
Judy, age 67
"I'm an energetic 67-year-old woman with four children and four grandchildren. I've exercised all of my adult life. I enjoy many athletic activities, including running, biking, aerobics, in-line skating, and weight...
Mike, age 60
"Aerobic exercise provides the conditioning of heart, lungs, and legs I need to sail continuously for 5 to 6 hours in high winds under intense competitive stress. I ride 50 to 60 miles per week on a mountain bike. This...
William, age 86
"A World War II veteran, I maintain an active lifestyle — hiking, skiing, and running. I started road-race and track competitions in my 60s, completed my only marathon (Boston) at age 67, and competed in many state senior...
Edgar, age 71
"I have participated in sports most of my life. I played football and baseball in high school. I boxed and did karate, baseball, weightlifting, and football in the Air Force. I started weight lifting to impress a young lady...
Joan, age 76
"In 1982, I started jogging and entered a mini-triathlon. That was the beginning of my dedication to exercise. From then on, I ran in many 5K races. Last year was my 20th year of participating in the Bix 7 mile race in...
Cynthia, age 69
"I have been active in sports all my life. But I needed something to help me be active every day. I decided to take an exercise class that is both a comprehensive workout and fun! The great instructor and new friends...