At 93 years old, John Starbrook, known as ‘The Legend’, is a beacon of inspiration for those pursuing an active lifestyle. Renowned for his remarkable running achievements, he has completed an astounding 52 marathons. His commitment to fitness remains steadfast, as he continues to hit the gym six days a week for a comprehensive full-body workout.
Beyond his running prowess, Starbrook is a seasoned swimmer with nearly eight decades of experience, having honed his skills during his tenure in the British Army Medical Corps. To celebrate his 80th birthday, he undertook a challenging one-mile swim across the Gulf of Corryvreckan, which separates the Scottish islands of Jura and Scarba. Even now, at 93, he maintains a rigorous routine, swimming three times a week and actively participating in water polo.
When asked about his secret to maintaining fitness at 93, Starbrook shared with The Guardian, “I’ve never smoked and drank much. My diet’s pretty normal. I have porridge in the morning and I eat a lot of veg, and not much-fried food.”
Kanika Narang, Deputy Manager at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals and a dietitian, attributes his active lifestyle and dietary habits to his long and healthy life. She emphasized the benefits of regular exercise, which supports cardiovascular health, improves muscle strength and flexibility, and reduces the risk of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and cognitive decline.
Narang recommends incorporating regular physical activity into daily routines starting from middle adulthood. However, she notes that it’s never too late to start reaping the benefits of exercise, regardless of age. Starting more demanding routines later in life may require a gradual approach to prevent injuries, but the positive effects on health and well-being can still be substantial.
Regarding Starbrook’s dietary habits, Narang highlighted the advantages of vegetarian diets, which are typically rich in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, reducing the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
Cutting back on fried foods, as Starbrook has done, can greatly benefit health. “Fried foods often contain unhealthy fats that contribute to cardiovascular disease, obesity, and other chronic illnesses. By opting for healthier cooking methods like baking, grilling, or steaming instead of frying, Indian individuals can improve their dietary quality and lower their risk of various health issues,” Narang said.
Narang also stressed the importance of avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption for maintaining good health and longevity. By avoiding these harmful habits, individuals can significantly enhance their overall health, reduce the risk of premature death, and enjoy a better quality of life.
