Tim Minnick wasn’t always a health and fitness devotee. While he played baseball in college at Texas A&M, he admits that through most of his adult life he had a haphazard fitness regimen. He worked as an insurance broker and spent a lot of time at his desk. The father of three (and grandfather of six) dabbled in strength training as well as trends like jazzercise with Liz, his wife of 43 years.
When Liz was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer, Minnick felt himself floundering. “Watching someone die, day after day after day like that it wears on you,” he says. Minnick gained 25 pounds, became depressed, and turned to fitness to help him cope. “Going to my local gym saved my life emotionally and mentally. I would feel 100 percent better after a workout,” he states.
After his wife’s death, it took several years for him to solidify his new path. “I didn’t want to go back into insurance, but I also didn’t want to retire and do nothing. I just knew I had to get out of the house and do something.” At 65, he sold his insurance company and leaned more into fitness as a way of life.
Over time, he cleaned up his diet, studied for a trainer certification, and transformed his body, achieving goals that many thought were impossible for someone his age. At 76, he applied for jobs at local gyms with low expectations but was hired by Gold’s Gym Austin.
Now, at 82 years old, Minnick holds the title of the world’s oldest fitness trainer, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records. He leads four classes a week in mobility and strength training for people over 60. “My true desire is to help people as they age. I’m passionate about it,” he notes.
His dedication to fitness includes emphasizing the importance of mobility and strength. A typical workout for him includes mobility warmups, strength training exercises, and a cardio session. Amidst advocating for health and fitness in older adults, he speaks on how crucial proper nutrition is, particularly emphasizing the need for high-quality protein.
With around 10,000 Americans turning 65 each day, demand for professional trainers focused on this demographic is growing. Tim addresses ageism and inspires seniors to defy stereotypes surrounding aging. Through his work, he has inspired many to embrace fitness and understand its role in enhancing quality of life.
His influence continues to extend across generations, motivating individuals to achieve their fitness goals, no matter their age. Tim Minnick exemplifies the notion that it’s never too late to take control of your health and redefine what’s possible.
Source: Men’s Health
