Age is just a number – and that’s especially true of the super-sprightly Bill Kober.
The 98-year-old, who lives in Woodbridge, Suffolk, does at least 40 press-ups every day without fail – 20 in the morning and another 20 in the evening.
Despite his age, the pensioner is also partial to a bit of Pilates, and recently mastered the “crow” pose.
“Only in my later years have I realised that I’ve got this ability, and so I do it because I’m able to and, as they say, use it or lose it, and I don’t want to lose it,” he said.
“I want to be as fit as I can be.”
Among other benefits, press-ups can improve your upper body strength and core stability and strength. Over time, they can also help improve your ability to do everyday tasks.
But what’s the key to the perfect push-up, according to Bill?
“A good straight back which gives you a nice tight buttock,” he said.
“If I stuck £20 note in between your buttocks, you’ve got to grip over it so that no-one can take it.”
According to the NHS, adults aged 65 and over should be physically active every day and do activities that improve strength, balance and flexibility at least two days a week.
They should also do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity, such as swimming, if they are already active.
Doing regular exercise can reduce the risk of major illnesses such as coronary heart disease, stroke and cancer, and lower the risk of early death by up to 30%.
