At 94, Kenneth Cooper — the Father of Aerobics — is still redefining what it means to age well.
In his newest book, Grow Healthier as You Grow Older, the face behind the Cooper Aerobics Center in Dallas combines decades of groundbreaking research with personal insight while offering a roadmap for living healthier, more actively, and longer.
Dr. Cooper coined the term “aerobics” while serving as a U.S. Army surgeon, helping NASA develop the astronaut fitness programs. He created the 12-minute fitness test, the Aerobics Point System, and contributed to the treadmill stress test used to detect early heart disease.
In 1968, Cooper changed the way the world thought about fitness with his book, Aerobics,introducing an exercise routine that would launch a global health movement with advocacy for preventive health practices over reactive treatment.
In 1970, he founded the Cooper Aerobics Center in Dallas and co-created The Cooper Institute. The Center’s Longitudinal Study tracks more than 116,000 participants, providing decades of data that shape modern preventive medicine.
In his latest book, Cooper shares ways to boost cardiovascular health, strength, and overall well-being while offering steps for people of all ages and fitness levels to improve their health.
Even small changes, said Cooper, such as moving from inactivity to 30 minutes of exercise, can “square off the curve,” helping individuals maintain vitality and independence well into later life.
Grow Healthier as You Grow Older blends memoir, research, and guidance, emphasizing that health is an individual responsibility. For the health and fitness guru, it is the lifestyle choices — regular exercise, balanced nutrition, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol — that can improve longevity and quality of life.
“No medication or therapy can replicate the benefits of an active lifestyle,” said Cooper. “Fitness is a journey, not a destination. You must continue for the rest of your life.”
Recently inducted into the inaugural Health & Fitness Association Hall of Fame, the wellness icon’s 20th book celebrates his life, accomplishments, and the people who shaped his journey.
At 94, Kenneth Cooper proves that age is no barrier to action, inspiration, or achievement. “Grow Healthier as You Grow Older” is a reminder that it’s never too late to take control of your health, and that living longer, fitter, and more vibrantly is possible at any stage of life.