AARP Hearing Center
l Denise Austin's voice on the phone is just as vibrant and full of inspiration as it is on her workout videos. It's that same cheerleader-like you-can-do-it enthusiasm that has helped make her a legend in the fitness industry for 30-plus years.
A former college gymnast, she burst into the national consciousness in the early 1980s as cohost of the long-running Jack LaLanne Show. But it was the California native's own popular TV programs, such as Getting Fit With Denise Austin, and a collection of workout DVDs that cemented her status as a fitness star.
Austin, 61, isn't slowing down a bit. She launched the 360° Plan at deniseaustin.com, a 10-week online fitness program replete with recipes, workouts and Austin-style motivational tips. And now, she's the face of fitness for AARP.
"People still feel my tummy. It's rock hard!" says Austin, who lives with her husband and two daughters in Alexandria, Va. "I am blessed to be in good health."
Here, she shares her top tips for getting in the best shape of your life after age 50.
1. Start
"It's all about establishing a routine. Squeeze in just 10 minutes to move, and then add five minutes the next time. If you just do that, you'll see a huge difference."
2. Shake things up
"I'm a big believer in mixing up your routine. I do [ballet-inspired exercises at the] barre, yoga, cardio, high-intensity circuits. I like intervals. I will turn a walk into a workout. For example, I walk for five minutes at an easy pace, then power-walk for two minutes and repeat. Intervals blast the fat."
