February 11, 2023 2 min read 1 Comment
1). What do you think is unusual about your workouts that others might get some help from?
"I have predictable inconsistencies in my workout schedule. For 4 or 5 weeks, I will work out with my trainer twice weekly, do the elliptical machine 3-4 times a week, and take my dogs on brisk walks 4-5 days a week. But it doesn’t last forever. Maybe I have travel plans, or it’s raining for days, or I’ve caught a cold. These interruptions inevitably happen. But I always get back in the groove and routine as soon as possible."
2).What do you think working out regularly does for you in daily life?
"I am a professional artist. I draw, paint, sculpt and teach drawing class. My work is physically demanding: moving around easels, bags of clay, large props. The older I get, the more adamant I am about maintaining strength and flexibility for the life I lead."
3). What's the big advantage to having a trainer, besides encouragement?
"Besides being incredibly motivating, my trainer is a wealth of knowledge about the human body. I think I know a lot about the body because it is the subject of my artwork. but I am continually educated about the way specific muscles behave by my trainer."
4). Do you have an anecdote on how your fitness at 63 surprised somebody?
"I can’t help it…I’m as vain as they come. There is no doubt in my mind that a lifetime of being involved in physical fitness has contributed to my youthful appearance. I’m pleased when someone is surprised at my age. And my favorite anecdote came from my son’s 25 year old girlfriend when she was following me up the stairs said 'My gosh, Karen, you have a really nice bottom!' ”
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Patti Baker
February 11, 2023
Roger Parnell is my teammate on Sierra Gold track club . In addition to being an incredible athlete he, and his wife Chris, are the nicest people you’d ever want to meet. Thanks for another inspiring story.