Dick Van Dyke, the legendary actor, recently shared his secrets to maintaining excellent health and fitness at the age of 99. In an appearance on Ted Danson’s podcast, Where Everybody Knows Your Name, Van Dyke attributed his vitality to a consistent exercise routine and a positive approach to aging.
“I’m almost 100. This is insane,” Van Dyke joked. He then revealed his fitness regimen: “Somebody said, ‘To what do you attribute your age and physical condition?’ I’ve always exercised three days a week. We go to the gym still, and I think that’s why I’m not stove up like my equals.”
Danson, 77, recounted his own observations of Van Dyke’s impressive workouts at a Malibu gym. “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,” Danson explained. “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.”
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Van Dyke confirmed Danson’s recollection, adding that his routine previously included gym workouts, swimming laps, and a rejuvenating nap. “Exactly,” Van Dyke quipped. “Good routine.” He further elaborated that his current exercise regimen consists primarily of stretching, sit-ups, and yoga.
In a 2015 interview with NPR, while promoting his book Keep Moving and Other Tips and Truths About Aging, Van Dyke emphasized the importance of finding joy in activities as one ages. He acknowledged the challenges of aging, stating, “The hardest part about getting older is ‘giving up the things that you enjoy doing.'” While he admitted to no longer being able to play tennis, he highlighted his continued ability to run, dance, and sing.
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Van Dyke shared his practice of asking others about the activities they miss most from their younger years. He noted a variety of responses, ranging from sports like golf and tennis to social gatherings like lunches with friends. However, he stressed that focusing on past regrets, such as missed business opportunities, misses the point of aging gracefully.
“The point is to enjoy,” Van Dyke asserted. “You have to pick what you enjoy doing, what fulfills you, what interests you.” He recognized that this isn’t always feasible for everyone, referencing Thoreau’s observation about lives of quiet desperation. Nevertheless, Van Dyke encouraged finding an “immersing hobby or pastime” to bring joy and fulfillment. His own dedication to exercise and positive outlook serve as a powerful testament to this philosophy.
