Couple Says Health Is Wealth In Golden Years

Getting in shape at any age comes with hard work, but it can be even more challenging later in life.

Wednesday, February 16th 2011, 7:54 pm

By: News 9


Kirsten McIntyre, News 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Getting in shape at any age comes with hard work, but it can be even more challenging later in life.

Experts said for some people, there may be some exercises that need to be modified as people get older. For example, the wear and tear of running may be too much, so a senior may take up biking, which is easier on the hips. But for others nothing, not even age, is slowing them down.

It's an early Saturday morning and Rich Carothers is ready to hit the street. For him and his wife, Karen, taking long runs is a weekend ritual.

"I've got my book ready, my run keeper program ready, ready to go," Rich said.

Rich and Karen ran their first marathon back in 1981. Since then, they've run 14 marathons. Rich is 66 years old. Karen is 62.

"We saw it as a way to stay healthy, and I know being fit and staying physically active is the best thing a person can do to promote a positive life for themselves," Rich said.

"I wanted to be as healthy when my kids were grown up so that I could do things with them and grandkids that I wouldn't be able to do if I wasn't in good shape," Karen said.

But running isn't the only way Rich and Karen stay healthy. They said they recently climbed the highest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro. It took them five days to reach the top.

"Of course you can't do those kinds of things unless you stay fit, and you can see wonderful things and have adventures. It's worth it," Rich said.

The couple said for those wannabes, it's never too late to get moving. They recommended finding a friend who has the same goal and exercise together.

"As you age health is what wealth is. You can have all the money in the world but if you don't have your health there's no point," Karen said.

Rich and Karen said fitness is a gift you give yourself. They are currently training for their 15th marathon in Arkansas.

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