Hollywood icon Dick van Dyke is sharing the simple secret behind his remarkable vitality as he approaches his 100th birthday this December. The beloved star of classics like Mary Poppins and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang maintains that sticking to a specific weekly routine is crucial to his wellbeing.
The Non-Negotiable Workout Regime
Dick van Dyke, who turns 100 on December 13, 2025, has revealed that he still commits to visiting the gym three times every week. The 99-year-old actor emphasised that when he misses too many sessions, he physically feels the difference.
"I still try to hit the gym three times a week," van Dyke told the Sunday Times. "I don't know why this is something I still want to do but it is. I'm not a 'wake up and go back to bed' type just yet, unless it's cold and rainy."
The entertainment legend was frank about the consequences of skipping his workouts, noting: "If I miss too many gym days, I really can feel it - a stiffness creeping in here and there. If I let that set in, well, God help me."
Motivational Tricks and Fitness Approach
Van Dyke employs clever psychological strategies to maintain his exercise commitment. He deliberately "dangles carrots" in front of himself as rewards, including a post-workout smoothie or "frothy caffeine treat."
Beyond the immediate treats, he highlighted more significant incentives like the "full-body tingly exhilaration" he experiences after exercising, along with a "sharper mind," the satisfaction of a hard-earned nap, and being "limber" enough to continue dancing.
His actual workout involves completing a circuit of various gym machines. He begins with sit-ups before progressing to leg exercises and finally focusing on his upper body. Interestingly, van Dyke specifically mentioned that his legs receive special attention as they're among his "most cherished possessions."
NHS Guidelines Support Active Lifestyle
Van Dyke's approach aligns perfectly with official health recommendations for older adults. According to NHS guidelines, people aged 65 and over should:
- Be physically active daily
- Complete activities improving flexibility, balance and strength at least twice weekly
- Achieve 150 minutes of moderate intensity activity each week
- Reduce time spent sitting or lying down
The health service notes that regular physical activity can significantly boost health and reduce the risk of serious conditions like stroke and heart disease. For those already active, 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity weekly provides similar benefits.
Born in 1925, Dick van Dyke continues to accept "guest spots" in entertainment projects despite his advanced years, demonstrating that his active lifestyle approach delivers real-world results. His commitment to regular exercise serves as an inspiring example that age needn't be a barrier to maintaining physical activity and enjoying its numerous benefits.
