Introduction: Staying active and healthy as we age is a goal many aspire to achieve. Janet Street-Porter, a vibrant 79-year-old journalist, exemplifies this approach. With a focus on maintaining her independence and sharpness, she has cultivated daily habits that support her aim to live a fulfilling life well into her later years. Here’s how she approaches fitness and well-being.
Street-Porter is resolute about reaching the age of 100. She shared with The Express that she prioritizes keeping her body at its peak performance: ‘If anything goes wrong, I can’t handle it!’
Embracing Movement: For Street-Porter, intentional but relaxed movement forms the cornerstone of her fitness strategy.
Setting Step Count Goals
She emphasizes the importance of staying active but aims to avoid being overly strict. A daily goal she sets is to walk about 5,000 steps. ‘There’s no need for power walking. Just put one foot in front of the other,’ she advocates. Spending ample time at her computer, she commits to an hour and a half of walking each day and also suggests that shorter sessions still yield benefits: ‘Even half an hour is worthwhile. Just make sure you do something!’
She recommends walking both in the morning and afternoon, ideally without distractions: ‘Whatever you do, don’t take your phone with you!’
Incorporating Low-Impact Workouts
Low-impact exercises also feature prominently in Street-Porter’s routine. ‘I swim in rivers and lakes,’ she shares, noting that it’s gentler on her muscles. Tennis and casual swimming are also part of her regular activities. ‘I may not swim like a professional, but I enjoy a leisurely breaststroke!’
Mindful Exercise: Managing Arthritis
As she has aged, Street-Porter has become more conscious of how exercise affects her arthritis. ‘While you feel mentally sharp, your joints may feel stiff,’ she explained to Yours. She advises not to overtrain. ‘I had a home gym and personal trainer for years, but that ultimately led to injuries.’
It’s critical for her to find a sustainable mix of exercises that accommodate her needs: ‘Thankfully, I’ve figured out a variety that works for me.’
Balancing Diet Without Rigid Rules
In terms of nutrition, Street-Porter maintains a flexible approach. ‘On weekends, I indulge in a full English breakfast made by my partner,’ she revealed to the Manchester Evening News. She enjoys quality ingredients like local farm eggs, tomatoes, mushrooms, and seasonal fruits as part of a balanced diet.
A Positive Mindset Towards Ageing
Ultimately, Street-Porter believes that maintaining a positive mindset is as crucial as any lifestyle choice. ‘Living in the past is detrimental. Instead, focus on the present,’ she advises. ‘Every morning, tell yourself: “Today will be fantastic,” no matter how dreary it seems.’
Conclusion: Janet Street-Porter exemplifies the idea that staying active and positive can greatly influence one’s quality of life as they age. By incorporating intentional movement, listening to her body, enjoying nutritious yet flexible meals, and maintaining a hopeful mindset, she sets a remarkable example. Everyone can draw inspiration from her journey to lead a fulfilling and active life, regardless of age.
