At 100 years old, Dick Van Dyke serves as an inspiring testament to the benefits of a lifelong commitment to fitness. The iconic actor believes that his longevity can be attributed to consistent physical activity throughout his life.
In a recent appearance on the Where Everybody Knows Your Name podcast, Van Dyke shared, “I’ve always exercised.” He maintains a routine that includes gym sessions three times a week, emphasizing the importance of regular exercise.
His current training regimen focuses more on light resistance training, stretching, and mobility exercises instead of chasing difficult fitness goals. “I incorporate a lot of stretching and yoga-like movements,” he explained, adding that gym machines help him stay active without undue strain.
This philosophy resonates with current findings on healthy aging. Engaging in regular strength training can help maintain muscle mass as we age, while staying active can greatly reduce the risk of falls and other complications.
Van Dyke’s vitality extends beyond conventional workouts. Podcast co-host Ted Danson noted that he often dances between exercises instead of simply walking. “You would not just walk to the next machine; you would dance,” Danson remarked.
After enduring a serious car accident in 2008, which left him with chronic pain, Van Dyke adapted his approach to fitness rather than surrendering. During a 2021 interview on CBS This Morning, he showcased various core exercises that he could perform at home, encouraging others to remain active regardless of age. “All you old guys out there, listen to me. You can keep going,” he urged.
If you’re looking to build strength, increase muscle mass, and lose body fat, consider following a well-structured four-week training plan. Designed to be straightforward yet effective, this program will complement a balanced nutrition guide to help you maintain a healthy caloric deficit without hindering your fitness progress. For those interested, tap the link below to unlock 14 days of free access to the Men’s Health app and kickstart your fitness journey today!
Isaac Williams is the Multiplatform Editor for both Women’s Health UK and Men’s Health UK. With a strong background in health and fitness journalism, he oversees the creation of engaging content across various platforms. His journey began at Loughborough University, and he has since interviewed numerous sports figures and edited health-related publications. When not working, Isaac enjoys staying active and attempting to teach his son the game of football. You can follow him on Instagram @isaacw1993.
