96-year-old marathoner reveals secret to healthy living

America Walking or running 8 km every day, avoiding salty foods, red meat and "gossiping" with friends is the secret to longevity of old man Richard Soller.

At the age of 85, Soller became the oldest person to finish the annual Chicago Marathon in 2012. More than a decade later, he still runs every day, Insider revealed on May 11.

Soller, now 96, is preparing to compete in the National Senior Games (NSG) in July, where he will compete in a 5km race against other men his age. Four years ago, Soller won gold at the same event, completing the 5km in just 47 minutes. However, he returns to the NSG to stay active and catch up with old friends.

Soller revealed that his secret to a healthy life is prioritizing phone calls to "gossip" with friends and walking thousands of steps every day.

“I always felt that if I kept pursuing my dreams or goals, the problems would be solved. I set my mind to the fact that I wanted to keep going, and I did,” Soller said. He is no longer as prolific a runner as he was when he was younger, but he still aims to walk 10,000 steps a day, which is about 8 kilometers. When he walks, he doesn’t listen to music, but focuses on positive thoughts throughout the walk.

"I try to keep moving, not sitting around watching TV. I like reading, but I still prefer running to reading," he revealed.

Research shows that you don’t need to walk 10,000 steps to stay healthy. Walking shorter distances can also help people prevent chronic diseases. A February 2022 study found that walking just 3,800 steps a day can reduce your risk of dementia. Walking shorter distances at a brisk pace can reduce your risk of heart disease and cancer.

Richard Soller was the oldest finisher of the 2012 Chicago Marathon. Photo: Insider — Richard Soller was the oldest finisher of the 2012 Chicago Marathon. Photo: *Insider*

In addition to running, Soller often calls friends and family. He credits his friendships, including those forged at NSG and other running events, for giving him a positive outlook on life.

"I use my phone and computer a lot and try to see my friends as often as possible," Soller said.

Soller’s commitment to his friends may have helped keep his mind sharp. Scientists have found that people who do not experience cognitive decline as they age tend to have high-quality relationships with friends and family. Soller admits that making new friends in old age can be difficult, but he often makes the first move.

The 96-year-old's diet is simple, with cornflakes, orange juice or grapes for breakfast; turkey or peanut butter sandwiches for lunch and lean meat or fish for dinner.

He loves soup and usually has a bowl for most lunches. He also avoids salty snacks and red meat, both of which increase the risk of heart disease if eaten in excess. He also eats fruit for breakfast instead of desserts like cake to control his sugar intake.

Soller revealed that before a race, he usually eats an energy bar and drinks a cup of coffee to gain an advantage.

Hong Van (According to Insider )

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