3 fitness secrets of a 78-year-old doctor who claims to have reversed his age by 22 years

The doctor attributes his age reversal to rigorous fitness regime and lifestyle choices. (Representational)

In a world obsessed with youth and longevity, Dr. Michael Roizen, the 78-year-old Chief Wellness Officer at Cleveland Clinic, claims t o have reversed his biological age by a staggering 20 years. According to Roizen, his biological age is a mere 57.6 years, a feat he attributes to his rigorous fitness regime and lifestyle choices.

Roizen, a well-respected author and expert on longevity, shared his insights with Business Insider on maintaining health and fitness despite a demanding schedule.

Cardio Commitment

A cornerstone of Roizen's fitness routine is his commitment to cardiovascular exercise. He dedicates 48 minutes, three times a week, to cardio workouts on a treadmill or exercise bike. This routine is inspired by his past enthusiasm for squash, a sport he played for the same duration.

Roizen's sessions are scheduled on Wednesday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays, with flexibility to adjust for social events.

Daily Steps to Health

In addition to his structured cardio sessions, Roizen aims to walk 10,000 steps each day. He employs creative strategies to meet this goal, such as using a treadmill desk in his office and parking his car a mile away from work.

This approach not only keeps him active throughout the day but also ensures he achieves his step count even on busy days. A 2022 study published in GeroScience supports the benefits of walking, highlighting that 30 minutes of brisk walking five days a week can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, improve mental well-being, and extend longevity.

Strength Through Resistance

Roizen supplements his cardio workouts with weight lifting twice a week. Resistance training is crucial for building muscle and enhancing longevity, he said.

Research backs his claim; a 2022 study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that 30 to 60 minutes of weekly resistance training could reduce the risk of dying from any cause by 17%, lower the risk of cardiovascular events by 18%, and decrease the likelihood of developing cancer by 9%.