Age is often spoken of as a limitation, but in reality, it is nothing more than a phase of life one that arrives at its own pace for each individual. Aging is natural, inevitable, and deeply human. What truly defines us is not the number of years we accumulate, but the choices we make as we move through them.

In recent times, especially amid global uncertainty, we have come to appreciate the value of nature, health, and inner balance more than ever before. Aging, I believe, teaches us resilience, patience, and self-motivation. It encourages us to think positively, adapt, and overcome challenges in order to live a purposeful and fulfilling life.

With more than three decades of experience as a physical education professional, I have seen firsthand how movement, discipline, and consistency can transform lives. Exercise is not merely about physical strength—it is the foundation of wellness, independence, and longevity. For older adults in particular, regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to maintain both physical and mental health.

I strongly disagree with the notion that exercise is unsafe or unsuitable for aging individuals. On the contrary, inactivity poses a far greater risk. Success in fitness, as in life, comes from focus, commitment, and the willingness to explore new possibilities. If one truly wants to achieve something, a way will always be found despite obstacles.

To maintain my own fitness, I chose early morning hours for training, beginning my day at 4:30 a.m. with an 8–10 km walk, extending to 15 km on weekends at a steady pace. This routine has become a way of life. Even during the pandemic, I continued exercising with full safety precautions, staying committed to my health and well-being. Simple activities such as brisk walking have an extraordinary ability to uplift mood and sharpen the mind.

At the age of 58 and beyond, I have learned that even modest activity makes a significant difference. During the pandemic, I actively participated in virtual marathons organized across the world. Receiving my first half-marathon e-certificate in September 2020 was both a cherished memory and a powerful motivator. What began as discipline soon became habit—and today, it is an inseparable part of my daily routine.

On November 20, 2024, I had the honour of becoming the first expatriate to complete a 54-km wellness walk in 8 hours, 8 minutes, and 9 seconds, commemorating Oman’s 54th National Day. In December 2024, I represented Nagpur District at the 45th Maharashtra State Inter-District Masters Athletic Championship, winning a gold medal in the 4×100 m relay and silver medals in the 5 km walk and high jump in the 55+ age category.

March 2025, during the month of Ramadan, presented an even greater test—not just of physical endurance, but of discipline and mindset. Over 22 sessions, I completed a total walk of 250.5 km in 35 hours and 55 minutes. Later, in November 2025, I secured first place in the Half Marathon Wellness Walkathon in Salalah, emerging as the only participant to successfully complete both major events.

These achievements reaffirm my belief that exercise is one of the most powerful tools for maintaining physical and mental balance, especially during times of uncertainty. It gives us control over our mood, our energy, and our outlook on life.

Beyond fitness, I find deep purpose in social service particularly blood donation, which I consider one of the greatest gifts one can offer another human being. I donate blood every three months, believing firmly that service to society completes the journey of personal growth.

My path has also extended into education and mentorship. I have been invited by universities and colleges to deliver lectures on career counselling and to serve as a keynote speaker at webinars—opportunities that allow me to inspire, guide, and share lived experience with younger generations.

Healthy habits, I believe, benefit not only individuals but society as a whole. No matter one’s age or physical condition, it is never too late to begin. Athletes and professionals who use their platform to inspire, serve, and advocate positive change build something far more meaningful than recognition—they build legacy.

We are given only one life. If we do not choose to live it fully today, when will we?

I firmly believe this: Age is not a barrier—it is a limitation we place on our own minds.

About the author: Mr. Ishwar S. Deshmukh is a senior faculty, Department of Physical Education at
Indian School Salalah, Oman.