89 year old Racewalker:

She forgot to get older. Recently there was an article in the paper about an 89 year old racewalker. She walks or does strength training on a daily basis. In her own words, "I forgot to get older."

This dynamic lady is a five time world champion racewalker, who believes that the key to staying fit is to never stop moving. Hmmm, sounds familiar. Keep moving in order to keep your mobility as you age.

She didn't take up racewalking until 70, setting several records since then. In 2005, she had a fall and broke bones in her leg and hip. After surgery to place metal plates for support, her doctor told her he didn't know if she would walk again.

Not too long afterwards she was back to racewalking. Obviously, she is a very determined woman. She grew up a dancer and has kept active ever since. In addition to racewalking she takes a weekly self-defense class.

So there you have it. The key to keeping your mobility as you age is to start moving when you are young and then.....

never stop!!

Most of us really can stay mobile for life if we just work at it. And why wouldn't you? At 89 this woman is still active and feels great!

Another thing the article noted, even though it wasn't discussed, was that she strength trains, also. Walking is great exercise, but strength training is also needed. I have no doubt that the strength training played a role in her fast recovery after breaking her leg.

So the take home message is to keep active all your life if you want to help slow down the aging process.

Most of us really can have mobility for life with a little work!