The greatest benefit of being fit at 90!

Being able to run around with my grandkids is the greatest benefit of being healthy and fit in my nineties!

My daily exercise routine started when I learned I wasn’t as fit as I thought I was. And then I decided to do something about it and over several years my fitness level increased to the point where I ran several 5k and an occasional 10k each year.

The joy of running outdoors with others and the excitement of it all was a good feeling. I didn’t have to win, I only needed to finish. I could have an extra scoop of ice cream -- all was good!

My daughter had been distance running for a while and she participated in several 5k races that I was in and I always thought how great it was to meet some of her friends and see the comradery and support they gave each other as they encouraged one another to the finish. So, it seems to me there’s a special social benefit to being around young people and being a part of their excitement. I actually think it was good for me -- the social aspect of it all.

There’s a special social benefit to being around young people and being a part of their excitement.

But the most exciting thing in recent years for me has been running around with my grandkids. Of the five grandchildren that I have, one is much older and beyond all this kiddy stuff. And one is just a bit too young -- maybe next year! But it began with the rough and tumble on the living room sofa with the others and then chasing them around inside the house until bed time after hearing "C’mon grandpa, chase me!" It then escalated to running around the house outside a few times. Then it went to "C’mon grandpa, one more time!" I think I ran around the house one afternoon with my grandson trying to beat me at least 5 times! I loved it!

It began with the rough and tumble on the living room sofa with the others and then chasing them around inside the house until bed time after hearing "C’mon grandpa, chase me!" It then escalated to running around the house outside a few times 

Then on my 90th birthday two years ago my children and a couple of friends had a surprise party for me and as part of the celebration we went to the beach and guess what, my little grandson said "C’mon grandpa, chase me!" The picture you see is me chasing the little guy all over the beach! Being able to do that is one the great benefits and joys that I can think of for being fit at my age!