Senior Planet Sponsored Athletes
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, has transformed from a sedentary lifestyle to becoming an elite athlete. A wake-up call from a physical exam over a decade ago prompted him to embark on a wellness journey. From walking to running to participating in incredible athletic feats, Tom has leveraged the support and bonds of his family to reach the peak of his physical fitness. With a mission to connect with fellow older adults, Tom aims to inspire and demonstrate that positive change is achievable at any age.
At 59, Tom faced a slew of health issues amidst economic struggles and employment challenges. Weighing 182 pounds and grappling with diminished energy levels, he couldn’t navigate a hill without losing his breath. Motivated by his wife and daughter, Tom sought medical help and discovered high cholesterol, osteoporosis, and severe sleep apnea.
For a quality life in my senior years, maintaining proper nutrition, getting sufficient rest (6-8 hours of sleep at night), and managing stress are integral.
Making Lifestyle Changes
Instead of opting for medication and a CPAP machine, Tom chose to overhaul his lifestyle and reclaim his health. He initiated his journey with walking and gradually integrated yoga and bodyweight exercises. Daily workouts have become a routine, prioritizing self-care and well-being each morning.
Understanding the significance of nutrition, rest, and stress management, Tom tailors his intensity levels based on his body’s needs, ensuring a balanced approach to health and fitness.
A Family Bond
Commencing with senior baseball and transitioning to track and field, Tom’s journey took a transformative turn. His participation in the Senior Olympics, excelling in sprints and long jump events, marked a pinnacle in his physical fitness. Amidst this journey, his granddaughter’s birth intertwined with his athletic pursuits, solidifying a unique bond. As she embarked on her own track and field endeavors, Tom found a supportive ally in his family, fostering a legacy of athleticism and inspiration.
With the aspiration to embody a role model for his granddaughter and the newest family addition, an 18-month-old granddaughter showcasing early athletic prowess, Tom’s commitment to fitness remains unwavering.
Inspiring Others
Interacting with individuals at track meets, Tom’s presence as a mature athlete often sparks inspiration in others unaccustomed to older individuals partaking in competitive sports. Acknowledging their admiration, Tom reciprocates by expressing gratitude, citing their encouragement as a driving force in his journey.
My aim is to reach out to a broad audience, illustrating that it’s never too late to instigate positive changes in life.
Proudly embodying physical prowess at 71, Tom’s journey symbolizes possibilities and resilience, offering hope for continued vitality even in his nineties. Determined to engage with a diverse audience and advocate for transformative change at any stage of life, Tom’s unwavering commitment shines through.
Becoming an American Ninja Warrior
In a bid to amplify his message and inspire others, Tom applied to compete on the renowned TV show American Ninja Warrior. Selected to participate in multiple seasons, including 2019, 2022, and the upcoming 2024 edition, Tom’s journey will be showcased alongside his granddaughter in an episode of Season 16, scheduled for later this year.
As a proud Senior Planet Sponsored Athlete, Tom eagerly anticipates the opportunity to motivate and support the community in their wellness pursuits. Mark your calendars for his inaugural live presentation on seniorplanet.org on July 31, and follow his inspiring journey on Instagram at @theczechninja.
Seeking motivation to kickstart your fitness journey? Join our daily health and wellness programs, stay updated with the latest news from SeniorPlanet.org by subscribing to The Orbit weekly newsletter, and connect with us on social media (Facebook | Instagram | Twitter) to engage with these inspiring athletes. Explore past Senior Planet Sponsored Athlete programs on our YouTube channel for a renewed passion for fitness!
Before initiating any fitness regimen, consult your healthcare professional to ensure suitability for your needs. The guidance and insights offered in this article do not substitute medical consultation.
Image credits: Tom Simek
