At 70, Alvis proves fitness is a lifelong journey, not a race
At nearly 70, Alvis has made fitness a lifelong habit. His routine includes cycling hundreds of miles and running countless 10Ks. But for him, the real reward isn’t finishing races—it’s the joy of staying active and healthy every day. Alvis first took up cycling seriously after a car accident in 2010. His insurance replaced his old bike with a high-end model, sparking a new passion. Soon, he began biking 30 minutes each way to his job in Palo Alto.
Before long, he pushed himself further by joining 'century' rides—cycling roughly 100 miles in a single outing. His training then expanded to include running, and he completed a half-triathlon: a 500-metre swim, a 20-mile bike ride, and a 10K run. Now, he’s set his sights on a full triathlon by the time he turns 70. Research suggests that training with a partner helps people stay motivated and stick to routines. Alvis found this to be true, discovering that shared workouts made exercise more enjoyable. Instead of focusing only on goals, he takes scenic routes and savours the process. For him, the journey matters just as much as the destination.
Alvis no longer keeps track of the miles biked or races completed. His focus remains on consistency and the simple pleasure of movement. By prioritising health over achievements, he’s built a sustainable way to stay fit for life.
