by: Tony Papajohn
The title is a trick question, but be a sport and play along.
Look up. Engage your inner view screen.
Picture a 90-year-old man.
What does he look like? Is he a little hunched over? Does he have rounded shoulders? Does he look frail?
Form a clear picture and set the man in motion.
How does he move? Does he walk slowly and carefully? Does he have a cane or walker? Can he even walk?
Now let him talk. What does his voice sound like? What does he say?
Now shake hands with him. Is it firm and strong or weak and tentative?
What is the impression you get of him?
Once you have a handle on this, log onto http://www.jacklalanne.com, cruise around and see what a man in his nineties looks like.
Jack is nothing short of amazing.
Jack LaLanne is the grandfather of physical fitness in America. At the age of 21, he opened the precursor of the modern health club in Oakland, California in 1936.
In 1951, he starred in the first exercise show on TV. At this writing, the reruns are on ESPN Classic at 7 and 10AM EST.
Watch or tape one of those shows and then go to the website. Compare the before and after. They guy is old enough to be a great-grandfather to Gen-X’ers and he could put many to shame.
Of course, I hope this encourages you to take better care of yourself, but that’s just a bonus.
What was the image you conjured up for the 90-year-old man?
Whatever it was, it is a snap shot of your own conception of advanced age.
If that doesn’t look like Jack LaLanne, make an adjustment.
Otherwise, that snap shot will someday resemble you.