Episode 17:4 Al Lyman, The Age Optimizer, on Living Stronger in Your Second Half

Health and aging coach Al Lyman, author of Age Well and Feel Great, The Proven Path to Solving the Aging Puzzle and Going the Distance, shares his formula for healthy longevity. The Ironman triathlete offers practical tips for making positive lifestyle changes, and encourages small steps applied consistently for long-term success.

About Al        

From a young age, Al Lyman took a cue from Walt Whitman when he said, “Be curious, not judgmental.”  He has always wondered why some people live a healthy life until death and others suffer from chronic, debilitating illnesses.  As a result, at the tender age of 25 he made a conscious decision to die healthy, a concept he called ‘squaring the curve’ of life span vs. health span.  Sadly, his Dad’s declining health and eventual brain cancer diagnosis that claimed his life at the young age of 65 illuminated this concept, inspiring Al to turn up the volume on his own journey to optimal health.

While watching the Hawaii Ironman on TV with his daughter, he impulsively announced, “I’m gonna do the Ironman!”  That monumental decision propelled him to complete nine Ironman triathlons, while proudly displaying his #makehimproud arm tattoo (honoring his father).  During this journey he was approached by other athletes who were drawn to his passion and desire to ‘go the distance’ for a healthier outcome, and as a result, Al spent two decades in high performance sports coaching.

Today, Al is known as the Age Optimizer, who helps you “live stronger in your second half.”  He specializes in aging-related health coaching for mature adults determined to beat the ‘doctor dance’ and take back their lives. He teaches long-term physical, emotional and mental health techniques to help people over 50 conquer their inner critic.  He personalizes every client’s path to wellness and a pain-free lifestyle.  His signature Lyman Longevity Formula, in a few words, helps you spend more time with the ones you love, longer…and #makethemproud.  Al is the author of Age Well and Feel Great: The Proven Path to Solving the Aging Puzzle and Going the Distance.  He’s also the creator of the B.E.A.T. Aging Transformation, a nod to his life as a drummer, and commitment to march to a healthy beat.

Key Takeaways

• Health is our greatest wealth. Make the best choices to optimize health, but also enjoy life. Seemingly insignificant habits add up over time.
• Vitality and vibrancy are normal as we age, but we have to take action to create good health. The average American over 60 is on 2-3 prescription medications for chronic disease.
• Be proactive when it comes to healthcare decisions. Perform your own due diligence and advocate for yourself. Be willing to have challenging conversations with healthcare providers.
• Strength training is key to preventing age-related muscle wasting, known as sarcopenia. It's not about perfection; it's about consistency. Consistency leads to motivation because we start to feel the benefits.