Let’s cut to the chase: If you’re not moving, you’re losing. The older you get, the more you need to move—it’s that simple. This isn’t some motivational fluff; it’s the hard truth.
Movement isn’t optional. It’s not something you “get to later” when you have time. It’s the key to staying strong, sharp, and alive. My Grandpa John knew this better than anyone. At 95 years old, he drove his Prius from Florida to Nova Scotia because, as he put it, “I figured now’s a good time.” That’s a man who understood what it means to keep moving, no excuses.
Now, let me tell you, I’m no stranger to challenges. At 64 this May, I’m recovering from two hip replacements. Arthritis and years of wear and tear forced me to face my limits. But you know what? Sitting still wasn’t an option. Movement—however small—became my lifeline. Every stretch, every step forward in recovery, reminded me that progress is a choice. It’s not always pretty, but it’s always worth it.
The research backs it up. According to “The Older You Get, the More You Need to Move”, regular movement doesn’t just improve your physical health—it sharpens your focus, boosts your confidence, and lifts your mood. And let me tell you, when you’ve just had your hip replaced, you need every bit of that mental and emotional boost.
Grandpa John got it. He surrounded himself with what he called “kids”—people in their 70s and 80s who kept him laughing, active, and connected. He didn’t wait for permission or perfect conditions to move; he just did it. And that’s the No B.S. truth about movement: It doesn’t matter how you do it—just do it.
I’ve seen this same energy on the mats. People in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond stepping into martial arts for the first time. Were they scared? Of course. Did they feel out of place? At first. But they showed up, they moved, and they grew stronger—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. Movement has a way of waking you up to what you’re capable of.
In “100 Pieces of Advice from 100-Year-Olds”, one centenarian puts it bluntly: “Do what you can to keep moving, even if it’s just a little every day. Your body will thank you.” Grandpa John would’ve said the same, with his trademark laugh and a twinkle in his eye.
Here’s another No B.S. truth: Movement isn’t about running marathons or hitting the gym every day. It’s about finding what works for you. Maybe it’s a walk around the block, a stretch session in the morning, or even dancing in your living room. It doesn’t matter how big or small—what matters is that you move.
This isn’t just about staying fit—it’s about staying alive. As “Timeless Wisdom” says, “Movement is a way of saying yes to life.” When you move, you’re not just exercising; you’re showing up for yourself and saying, “I’m still here, and I’m not done yet.”
For me, the mats have been my proving ground. Every technique I practice and every step I take on those mats reminds me that movement is power. In January 2025, I’ll be back on those mats as both a teacher and a student. I’ll be teaching martial arts to others who are ready to start moving—no matter their age—and learning right alongside them. It’s never too late to start fresh.
So, here’s the deal: Stop making excuses. You don’t need a fancy gym, expensive equipment, or a perfect schedule. You just need to move. Take a walk, stretch, join a martial arts class, or try something new. Start small if you have to, but start.
Because the truth is, you’re either moving forward or falling behind. And the older you get, the more important it is to choose movement. No B.S.
Let’s rise, thrive, and move—together.
Where to Explore in the Resources:
- “The Older You Get, the More You Need to Move”:
- Focus on how movement supports mental clarity, confidence, and emotional well-being.
- “100 Pieces of Advice from 100-Year-Olds”:
- Highlight practical, no-nonsense advice about the importance of daily movement.
- “Timeless Wisdom”:
- Use the perspective that movement is a way of saying yes to life and expressing gratitude for being alive.
