Meet Tom Simek. He’s one of the 2024 Senior Planet Sponsored Athletes, and he’ll be sharing updates on his health and wellness journey through the rest of this year.

Tom, age 71, wasn’t always an elite athlete. A little over 10 years ago, a wake-up call from a physical exam kickstarted his wellness journey. From walking, to running, to awesome feats of athleticism, Tom has worked his way into the best shape of his life through the support and bonds of family. Now he’s on a mission to connect with other older adults and show that it’s never too late to make a positive change.

At the age of 59, I began experiencing a series of health issues. With a waning economy from the recession and a corresponding lack of work, I weighed in at 182 pounds, and my energy was depleted. I was unable to walk up the smallest hill without losing my breath. At the constant urging of my wife and daughter, I finally scheduled a physical with my doctor. It was already evident that I was very much overweight and out of shape, but tests revealed that I had high cholesterol, osteoporosis, and a severe case of sleep apnea.

Proper nutrition, rest (6-8 hours of sleep at night), and minimizing stress are all important factors to living a quality life in my senior years.

Making Changes

Instead of taking the medication that was prescribed for me and using a CPAP machine, I decided to change my lifestyle and reclaim my health. I started with walking, and over time added additional activities like yoga and bodyweight exercises. I’ve made a habit of taking care of myself first thing in the morning with my workout routine every day at home.

Some days are more intense than others depending on how my body is feeling or recovering from previous workouts. I’m also more aware that proper nutrition, rest (6-8 hours of sleep at night), and minimizing stress are all important factors to living a quality life in my senior years.

A Family Affair

At the beginning of my fitness journey, I played a couple of years of men’s senior baseball, a sport I played when I was a young boy. I also got involved with track and field, and it became a life-changer. I’ve since participated in the Senior Olympics, competing in the 50m, 100m, 200m sprints and the long jump.

Not only have I gotten in the best shape of my life, but when I started running at the age of 60, my granddaughter was born. She has been an important part of my journey, being there to support me at my events. Now, track and field has become her sport too, so I get to cheer her on in return! We’ll even compete together at track meets when they are open for Masters Athletes, which is a huge joy for me.

So, my goal is to continue being a model for my granddaughter, and the newest addition to our family: an 18-month-old baby granddaughter who is also exhibiting extreme athleticism at this early age.

Motivating Others

During track meets with my granddaughter, I am often approached by people who aren’t used to seeing older athletes competing. They let me know that I am source of inspiration to them, and in return I express my gratitude and let them know that they motivate me to keep doing what I am doing.

I want to connect with as many people as possible, to let them see that it’s never too late to make positive changes in your life.

It brings me such joy to model what is possible at the age of 71. I can only hope that I can continue this into my nineties! I want to connect with as many people as possible and show that it’s never too late to make positive changes in your life.

An American Ninja Warrior

One way I decided to do that was applying to compete on the TV show American Ninja Warrior. I have been selected to compete three times: in 2019, 2022 and now in 2024! I will be featured along with my granddaughter on American Ninja Warrior in one of the Episodes of Season 16, which will air later this year.

As a Senior Planet Sponsored Athlete, I am looking forward to the opportunity to inspire this community and help you progress in your wellness journey. I’ll be hosting my first live presentation here on seniorplanet.org on July 31 — save the date! Until then, follow my journey on Instagram at @theczechninja.

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In need of a little motivation to get moving? Join our daily health and wellness programs, stay tuned to the latest news and articles from SeniorPlanet.org by signing up for The Orbit weekly newsletter, and follow us on social media (Facebook | Instagram | X) to get to know these awe-inspiring athletes. Plus, check out past Senior Planet Sponsored Athlete programs on our YouTube channel. You might just find a new love for fitness along the way!

Please consult your physician or other health care professional before starting a fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs. The advice and information presented in this article are in no way intended as a substitute for medical consultation.

Photos by Sarah Stallard/ANW production crew, courtesy of Tom Simek