Still Going Strong
Bill, 80, has been coming to the Y faithfully for the past 6 years, even after a recent hip replacement.
How has that changed the way you work out?
Bill: I can’t do high-impact. They told me this thing would last 15 or 20 years. If I wanted to run, I could run. There’s no problem. But it would only last 4.
Makes sense. Cycling is a lot gentler on those joints—good choice! So you like to bike, huh?
Bill: I do. Outside on a bike, I’m good for 2 to 3 hours. Not very fast, though. I go about 15, 16 miles an hour and that’s all I can do now.
Give yourself some credit, Bill! You mentioned your wife comes here, too. What does she do at the Y?
Bill: She walks and does stretches. She’ll tell me, "OK, hold one foot up, put your arm out and just stand." And I wobble all over. When I close my eyes, I cannot stand on one foot. I used to be able to, but not anymore.
We could all use some practice with that.
Bill: Yes. I’m strong, but I need more balance and more flexibility. Well, not really strong. I can only do 7 pull-ups.
Are you kidding? That’s more than we can do some days! We’re so glad you’re here putting in the work to maintain your health. Keep at it, Bill!