I discovered my fountain of youth in my 70s: What it is may surprise you

By Jim Owen

Lately, we've been hearing about tech moguls spending millions in search of longevity secrets. But I've found my own fountain of youth, and it costs almost nothing. It's not some superfood, miracle supplement, or cryogenic treatment.

At 85, I wake up each day feeling young, energetic, and ready to take on a busy day. The number-one reason? Strength training.

At 70, I was a physical wreck on the fast track to old age. I was overweight, listless, and suffering from chronic, excruciating back pain. In desperation, I decided to give strength training a try.

Before long, I was addicted, because I left every session feeling great. I had more energy, slept better, and was in a better mood, thanks to the endorphins released. After four or five years, I was physically transformed, pain-free, and in the best shape of my life. I'm living proof that it's never too late to get fit.

What every aging body needs

I really want to get this message out there, because a lot of older people think walking is the only exercise they need.

That's simply not true. While cardio is essential, it's not enough.

Strength training becomes more important—not less—as you get older. We gradually lose lean muscle mass starting in our 30s, and that only accelerates with age. "Use it or lose it" is literally true for your muscles.

Increasingly, doctors are urging older adults to do two or three strength-training sessions weekly. Research shows it can help seniors:

• Avoid serious falls and increase bone density. Each year, about one quarter of Americans over 65 suffers a fall.

• Handle daily life tasks. Being able to lift groceries or packages is important for independence.

• Minimize aches and pains. Weak muscles strain your knees, shoulders, and lower back. As I got stronger, my pain disappeared.

• Boost metabolism and help maintain a healthy weight.

• Lower risks of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.

The more immediate payoff is that glow of well-being after a workout. Never once have I finished a session without feeling more energetic than when I started.

For me, one of the biggest payoffs has been mental. Going from a physical wreck to being strong and fit was an incredible confidence boost. It made me feel I can meet whatever challenges life throws at me. That's why I was able to move into producing documentaries despite having no prior experience.

A workout that fits

Many older people resist strength training because they think it means bodybuilding. But I'm not talking about old-school heavy lifting.

I recommend sensible, age-appropriate resistance training—resistance bands and dumbbells at home, or gym workouts. It's not about big muscles or looking good in a bathing suit. It's about staying active and independent into your 70s, 80s, and beyond.

Here's how to set yourself up for success:

• Start slow. My first day I couldn't do a single proper push-up. Eventually I worked up to fifty.

• Be consistent. Slow, steady progress works. Keep in mind that something is always better than nothing.

• Stick with basics. Mimic real-life movements with squats, lunges, and push-ups.

• Concentrate on your core such as abs, back, glutes, and thighs.

• Focus on form. A seasoned trainer can be invaluable here.

Perhaps the most important thing I've learned is that strength training is ultimately a mental game. Find what motivates you—whether it's traveling with family or playing ball with grandkids.

Think of your workouts as the path to a better, more active, and more fulfilling (maybe even a longer) life. You can have your own personal fountain of youth too.

Connect With Jim

www.meetjimowen.com