Welcome back to this special series featuring the stories of the Senior Planet Sponsored Athletes as they pursue their fitness goals in 2024. You can find all of our Sponsored Athletes’ stories here.

Hello everybody, I’m Tom Simek. I am 72, and live in the forest at the end of the Sangre de Cristo mountains in historic Santa Fe, NM. I am grateful that I have been selected as one of the Senior Planet Sponsored Athletes so that I can share my journey with others.

I believe it is important for seniors to share stories of their journey through life. We’ve all had challenges, and it is necessary for others to know that they are not alone, and that it’s possible to overcome and thrive. We all need to be inspired!

My Inspiration

At the age of 59, I began experiencing a series of health issues. I was very much overweight and out of shape, and tests revealed that I had high cholesterol, osteoporosis, and a severe case of sleep apnea. I decided to change my lifestyle and reclaim my health — for myself, and for my family, including my two granddaughters. I started with walking, and over time added additional activities like yoga and bodyweight exercises. Today, I am in the best shape of my life, competing in track meets with my granddaughter, and ninja athletic competitions.

More Inspiration

That’s my story (which you can read more of here!), but throughout the journey, I have always enjoyed visiting with others and listening to their stories. I am inspired by their challenges and the changes that they’ve made to overcome, and to improve their quality of life in their senior years. I know a fellow track athlete and friend who made it through a serious battle with cancer, and his story is truly remarkable. He not only made it through with support from family and friends, but he also came back stronger and more determined as an award-winning athlete!

I have learned that inspiration can come from people of any age. While competing, I have made quite a few friends across the country – some in their 80s and 90s – living amazingly active lives and showing me what is possible when you continue to be committed to healthy living. About a year and a half ago, my sister-in-law who is 13 years younger, was diagnosed with severe osteoporosis. She was offered a prescription for a drug that she would be required to take for the rest of her life with serious side effects. Instead, she got a trainer, is doing weight-bearing exercises, is drug-free, and stronger than she has ever been.

On the ninja circuit, I have heard many stories of even the youngest athletes overcoming bullying, or a medical diagnosis that would have kept them from achieving their aspirations. One young ninja warrior with a dream to be an Olympic rock climber was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at just 11 years old, but it didn’t stop her from pursuing her goals. While still working toward that milestone, she became the Women’s National Ninja Champion in 2023!

Find YOUR Inspiration!

Sometimes challenges can be opportunities, and through that we just might achieve levels of fitness and a quality of life we never thought possible.

There are so many stories that can inspire us to realize a dream does not have to end when there are obstacles in the way. It may be just the thing that pushes us more, or in a whole new direction. Sometimes challenges can be opportunities, and through that we just might achieve levels of fitness and a quality of life we never thought possible.

Please join my next online workout session here on seniorplanet.org on Wednesday, September 18 at 1:30pm EDT, so I can assist you in creating your own inspiring stories to share with others. See you soon!

Missed my first presentation? Watch it below!

In need of a little motivation to get moving? Join our daily health and wellness programs, stay tuned to the latest news and articles from SeniorPlanet.org by signing up for The Orbit weekly newsletter, and follow us on social media (Facebook | Instagram | X) to get to know these awe-inspiring athletes. Plus, check out past Senior Planet Sponsored Athlete programs on our YouTube channel. You might just find a new love for fitness along the way!

Please consult your physician or other health care professional before starting a fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs. The advice and information presented in this article are in no way intended as a substitute for medical consultation.

Photos courtesy of Tom Simek / American Ninja Warrior / Elizabeth Morris, NBC