The traditional image of a grandparent often brings to mind a stagnant scene—bags of medication in one hand, a cane in the other, walking slowly towards the house, perhaps tending to the chickens in their spare time. But what if your grandfather was doing 500 push-ups a day?
That’s the reality for Jake Stothard (84) and his wife Sheila (81), who has become an inspiring example of staying fit and active well into their later years. Their grandson, a young Canadian, shared their health journey, which was summarized by The Telegraph in an interview, revealing the secrets behind their remarkable lifestyle.
Secrets to the Grandparents’ Health:
- Food Prepared with Love: Sheila attributes their continued health to her nutritious and healthy meals. Their diet consists of fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and cottage cheese. She says, “We know exactly what we’re eating.”
- No Excuses for Weather: Regardless of the weather, the couple commits to a two-hour walk every day, whether it’s raining, sunny, in spring, fall, winter, or even the heat of summer.
- Fitness is Key to Enjoying Life: Jake follows a varied exercise routine, which includes weightlifting to help improve his balance and prevent falls. One of his most notable practices is doing 500 push-ups daily, broken into sets, which enhances his mobility and energy.
- Quality Sleep is Essential for Health: The day begins at 5:45 AM for the couple, who enjoy a peaceful 8 hours of sleep. After waking, Sheila prepares breakfast, tidies up the house, does the laundry, and then they head out for their morning walk.
- Quality Time with Loved Ones: What motivates Sheila the most is her ability to keep up with her grandchildren, while maintaining her independence and not needing help from others. She emphasizes, “We want to live a completely independent life.”
So, the secret lies in a balanced lifestyle that combines proper nutrition, consistent physical activity, and mental relaxation, making this couple a role model for staying fit and healthy after retirement.
.jpg)