Embracing the Power of Walking: Al Roker’s Journey to Better Health

Jan 18, 2025 at 4:15 PM

Al Roker, the vibrant 70-year-old weatherman and co-host of the TODAY show, has discovered a simple yet powerful way to stay active. Instead of relying solely on cars for transportation, he often opts for public transit, which allows him to incorporate more walking into his daily routine. “Walking is accessible anytime, anywhere, and requires nothing more than a comfortable pair of shoes,” Roker notes. This lifestyle change began in 2020 when his doctor advised him to walk five miles a day following prostate cancer surgery. The habit not only became a part of his routine but also played a crucial role in his recovery.

Roker's commitment to walking has had profound health benefits. After being hospitalized for blood clots in 2022, he believes that his regular walks significantly contributed to a better outcome. His doctor emphasized that the cardiovascular fitness from walking likely saved his life during critical moments. In addition to improving his personal health, Roker has taken on the role of Chief Motivation Officer for the wellness app Start TODAY. He successfully walked 10,000 steps a day for 210 consecutive days and logged 100 miles in just 19 days last January. Research supports his efforts, showing that walking 10,000 steps daily can reduce the risk of serious health issues by up to 10% for every 2,000 steps.

Walking offers a convenient and effective way to stay fit, especially for those with busy schedules. Roker finds it easy to integrate into his daily activities, unlike other forms of exercise that require dedicated time and preparation. He advocates for choosing one simple activity and sticking with it. "Just pick one thing that’s easy and do it," he advises. This philosophy encourages others to embrace small, manageable changes that can lead to significant improvements in overall well-being and health. By adopting this approach, individuals can enhance their quality of life and achieve lasting benefits.