At nearly 100 years old, Dick Van Dyke is a living testament to the benefits of staying active and maintaining a positive outlook on life.
The beloved actor, best known for his roles in *Mary Poppins* and *Chitty Chitty Bang Bang*,
recently shared the secret to his remarkable health and longevity on Ted Danson’s podcast, *Where Everybody Knows Your Name*.
Turning 99 in December, Van Dyke reflects on his remarkable journey, attributing his vitality
and physical fitness to one key factor: exercise. “I’m almost 100. This is insane,” Van Dyke said, acknowledging his incredible age.
When asked about his physical condition, the actor revealed that he has maintained a consistent exercise regimen throughout his life.
“I’ve always exercised three days a week,” he explained. “We go to the gym still, and I think that’s why I’m not stove up like my equals.”
Van Dyke’s commitment to staying active goes beyond simple fitness routines. Ted Danson, who is 77, shared that the two actors worked out at the same gym, and he was always amazed at Van Dyke’s dedication. Danson recalled, “I would go to the same gym you did, and if I got there early enough, I would see you literally work out on some weight machine. And then, almost like you were doing circuit training, you would not walk to the next machine, you’d dance. You literally danced to the next machine.”
This lively and energetic approach to exercise reflects Van Dyke’s approach to life. The actor revealed that after finishing his workout at the gym, he swims laps and then takes a nap, ensuring he maintains a balanced and active lifestyle. “Good routine,” Van Dyke quipped during the podcast, reflecting his easygoing nature.
Van Dyke’s workout routine includes a variety of activities designed to keep his body flexible and strong. He mentioned that he incorporates a lot of stretching, sit-ups, and yoga into his schedule. This mix of low-impact exercises helps him stay limber and agile, enabling him to continue enjoying his active lifestyle well into his later years.
But Van Dyke’s philosophy on aging goes beyond physical fitness. The actor, who has seen decades of success in Hollywood, also spoke about the emotional and mental aspects of getting older. In a 2015 interview with NPR, he explained that as he aged, he had to make adjustments by giving up certain activities. “I can’t handle the tennis court anymore. I can still run and dance and sing,” he said, acknowledging that while aging means letting go of some joys, it also provides the opportunity to focus on what’s truly important.
Van Dyke’s reflection on the things he misses as he ages was insightful. He shared that many people he had spoken to about aging mentioned missing activities like golf, tennis, or social gatherings with friends. One woman even lamented missing having lunch with her friends. However, Van Dyke noted that the people who expressed regret over their missed opportunities in business, rather than enjoying life’s simpler pleasures, were missing the point of aging. For him, embracing life fully, both physically and mentally, has been his secret to longevity.
It’s clear that Dick Van Dyke’s mindset is as vital as his fitness routine. His commitment to staying active, dancing through life, and maintaining a positive attitude all play a role in his remarkable longevity. As he continues to enjoy his near-century of life, his story serves as an inspiration for others to embrace health and wellness, no matter their age.
Van Dyke’s secret isn’t just about exercise; it’s about finding joy in the everyday moments and staying connected to the things that keep you feeling alive—whether that’s dancing to the next machine at the gym, swimming laps, or simply appreciating the blessings of each new day. With his upbeat attitude and regular exercise routine, Dick Van Dyke is proving that age truly is just a number.
Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.
