You've heard the expression "young at heart," but some people really make it their mission to look, feel and act young well into middle age and beyond. The following 50- and 60-somethings take specific steps to ensure that they stay as strong, energetic and current as ever. Follow their lead and you just might find your own fountain of youth.
Move as much as you can.
"I take yoga, ballet, strength training and body alignment classes three to four times a week. I still dance—and teach Pilates and barre classes—every chance I get." —Sarita Allen, 53
Never slow down.
"I've been a jogger for 45 years and my wife and I travel to do bike rides; we just did a four-day, 250km ride, and last weekend did a 80km ride. I'm usually up at 5 AM to jog, and, in the summertime, I bike to work 30kms round trip a few times a week." —Mike Gottsacker, 63 (If you're over 40 and want to start running for the first time, here's what you need to know.)
Lift weights.
"There's nothing like working out to keep you feeling young. I've been lifting weights for about four years and my increased strength makes me feel 10 years younger. Little everyday things like climbing the subway stairs and hauling groceries that had been starting to feel challenging are a walk in the park now!" —Noelle Nieva Machens, 52
Find time to meditate.
"I think my 20-minute-a-day meditation practice has helped alleviate stress and handle chaos. I lost my husband last year after a 10-year battle with cancer, and without meditation I think the stress would have overtaken me. In addition to helping me through my grief, it's eliminated any fear of trying new things as I get older. On my 50th birthday, shortly after my husband died, I started training to becoming a holistic health coach. I'll graduate when I'm 51. Next up: I'm planning to walk the Camino de Santiago by myself—it's a 800 kilometre hike through northern Spain. The second half of my first century is going to be the most exciting time for me." —Lorri Weisen, 50
Walk the dog.
"Fresh air on my face and good music coming through my earbuds early in the morning as I walk the dog makes me feel like a teenager and sets me up for a healthy day—every day." —Renée Jones, 55
Take risks.
"Get a little scraped or bruised—it will make you feel like a kid again. I started playing roller derby over 10 years ago and it has singularly helped me stay young." —Meghan Dougherty, 51
Don't dwell on the past.
"If you find yourself thinking about how good things used to be, find a new hobby or read some compelling non-fiction. The key is to do things that make you feel engaged with life." —David Tyler, 51
Banish the phrase "I'm too old."
"Don't let age stop you from trying something new. You might not have elite athletic skills at an older age and you might not become a music virtuoso, but so what? If you enjoy it and learn something, it's worth it. At age 51 I became a boxing columnist; I now attend and cover fights across the country. I may be an odd sight standing in my Chucks on the lip of a boxing ring with a camera, but I've been named Sportswriter of the Year twice by the Society of Professional Journalists, San Diego Chapter." —Gayle Falkenthal, 57
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