How an 86-Year-Old Triathlete Stays Absolutely Ageless

A few days a week, Dr. Margaret Phillips-Steinam plays an hour of tennis, does 30 minutes of cardio along with strength training and stretching. By anyone's standards, this would be considered a hefty dose of exercise. But this 86-year-old retired internist isn't just anyone. In fact, for her, this is just an average routine that increases when she's in training for the two triathlons she's been competing in every year since she was 60. So That's Fit asked her: What's your secret to your vitality?

"Being physically active makes me feel good and that's very motivating," she said. "Naturally, I know exercise is healthy for a person but I also do it out of love for specific sports and the thrill of competing. For those who dislike exercise of any kind, I've never been able to understand them. I find it hard to fathom that knowing about the ill-effects of a sedentary lifestyle and the associated obesity isn't enough to persuade people," says the 103-pound, 5-foot, 3-inch athlete. "But if it's not then they have to find the will power to just do it. Sometimes joining up with a group activity or having a workout partner can be a good catalyst for those who need an extra push."

Admittedly, one reason for the doctor's enduring athleticism is that she's never suffered a serious injury. While she says part of that's good luck, she believes it's also due to her dedication to all three forms of fitness: aerobic, strength training and stretching. "Not any one should be ignored," she said. She also swears by her exercise bike and says everyone should have one. "It's the easiest way to fulfill your daily aerobic requirement," said Phillips-Steinam. "It's right there at home so you can't find an excuse not to hop on. Plus you can read while you're doing it."