At the remarkable age of 96, Jack Eckenrode stands as a beacon of inspiration, showcasing that age is merely a number when embarking on a fitness journey. Surprisingly, Jack only took up cycling after he turned 75, but his commitment to health and wellness began much earlier.
After retiring as an insurance salesman at 60, Jack chose not to rest. Instead, he embraced a life of hard work on a farm, where he dedicated 15 years to the rhythms of rural life. It was a hands-on existence that kept him physically active, but when he sold the farm at 75, he found himself at the brink of a new adventure—cycling.
Now residing in Pittsburgh, Jack shares his insights on fitness, emphasizing that it’s never too late to prioritize health. “Exercising is a daily commitment for me,” he told Business Insider, underscoring how he carves out an hour each day to stay active—a luxury he could not afford while raising his 12 children.
Recent research supports Jack’s approach. A 2023 study published in Preventive Medicine revealed that even individuals aged 80 and above can significantly extend their lives through physical activity, regardless of past inactivity. This resonates with Jack’s philosophy, as he enthusiastically commits to his fitness routine.
His regimen includes 30 minutes on a stationary bike followed by 30 minutes of calisthenics, a routine he learned during his time as a pilot in the US Air Force. This full-body workout keeps him strong and capable, enabling him to enjoy daily cycling on local trails. His dedication has led him to compete in the National Senior Games for the past two decades, where he has participated in four cycling races and sprint events, collecting five medals last year, including a notable win in the 20-kilometer cycle race.
“My legs never get sore, and my muscles or back never get sore. I can go on forever,” Jack beams, embodying a spirit of resilience that inspires those around him.
Jack’s Top Tips for Fitness at Any Age
- Make Exercise a Daily Habit:
“I go out of my way to get on that stationary bike for sure. I try not to miss one day. I feel so much better after I do it,” he emphasizes. For Jack, dedicating just one hour a day is a small price to pay for the health benefits it provides. He encourages everyone to remain active—whether through golf, tennis, or simply taking a walk outside. “The more you do that, the happier you’ll be.”A physiologist specializing in healthy aging notes that just 3% of your day spent exercising—around 30 minutes—can lead to significant longevity benefits and help prevent chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cancer.
- Exercise with Others:
When the weather allows, Jack loves to cycle with his nearby children, a tradition he cherished with his late wife. “We always biked early in the morning and even late at night,” he recalls fondly. Research shows that having a workout buddy can enhance motivation, a sentiment echoed by younger generations who blend socializing with fitness in running clubs and gym sessions. - Multitask while exercising:
Jack also integrates mindfulness into his workouts. “I try to meditate on the stationary bike to start things off, and then I plan my day while biking,” he shares. This approach not only makes exercise enjoyable but also helps him stay organized and feel positive. Music plays a vital role in his routine; he enjoys tunes selected by Alexa, which enhances his workout experience. Studies have shown that exercising to music can improve performance, and combining physical activity with mindfulness can bolster psychological health by alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress.
Jack Eckenrode’s journey is a testament to resilience, commitment, and the belief that fitness knows no age. As he continues to pedal through life with vigor, he inspires countless others to embrace an active lifestyle, proving that it’s never too late to start anew.
