A 71-year-old man has revealed that he feels “fitter than someone in their 20s” and says that “ageing doesn’t mean it’s time to slow down”.
Nate Wilkins begins each morning with a four-step ritual: stretching, breathing, moving and reflecting.
It’s something the 71-year-old implemented after a major health “wake-up call” many years ago.
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Today, he doesn’t seem himself as old, and, instead, “feels fitter than someone in their 20s”.
He’s taken his “wake-up” moment and transformation and turned it into a later-in-life career as a pro-ageing and longevity coach, helping those who have been told they’re “too old” to start again.
“Getting older, or ageing, doesn’t mean it’s time to slow down,” Nate told What’s The Jam.
“When I tell people my age, they’re usually quite surprised.
“They say: ‘No way!’ or ‘You’re lying’ which I always laugh at.
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“It’s great to show what’s possible when you take care of yourself.
“I’m not really trying to look young – but I’m living strong and useful.
“I feel healthier and fitter than I did in my 20s and 30s.
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“I’m more aware, intentional and grateful.
“And I recover faster.
“I’m not getting older, I’m getting better.”
Nate, from Miami, Florida, US, grew up playing sports and keeping busy.
But it wasn’t until he joined the Navy in his 30s that he began training seriously, up to three times a week, where he discovered the deeper discipline and purpose in training.
But then, in his 50s, despite his career success, Nate hit a physical and emotional wall – and this was when his transformation truly began.
A severe warning from his doctor about his heart and prostate health spurred him to take full ownership of his future self.
He said, “The stress had taken a toll.
“I realised that if I didn’t change, I might not be around to enjoy my success.
“That was my turning point – I cleaned up my habits, started moving with intention and built a lifestyle focused on longevity.”
The shift inspired him to help others do the same.
He became a personal trainer and now guides people to redefine ageing as a time of “strength, connection and renewal”.
And his secret to staying youthful forever?
Nate added, “I don’t follow a diet.
“I follow an eating plan that’s built around how I want to feel and perform each day.
“I start early with a cup of hot water and lemon, and, from there, I take in a small portion of protein to fire up my system.
“After my workout, I have four boiled eggs and a mix of fruit and then return to protein paired with carbohydrates.
“I may have a small snack later in the day, and in the evening, I’ll take in more protein.
“Let’s be real: if there’s an opportunity to enjoy a beer or cocktail, I’m not opposed.
“I’m moving more and more toward incorporating plant-based options, too.
“I practice what works for me, not a diet.
“My philosophy is pro-ageing.
“Prepare your body today for the future you want tomorrow.
“It’s never too late to start.
“And walking alone isn’t enough – it’s about strength, eating real food and moving with purpose.
“Your best years aren’t behind you, they’re the foundation for what’s next.”
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