Start Early, Get Fit for Senior Olympics

Bill Wiese might have finally found the necessary motivation to stick to his New Year’s resolutions of staying active and physically fit for longer than a few months.

The retired certified public accountant was one of 40 people last year who joined Team AARP to participate in the 2014 St. Louis Senior Olympics.

He plans to join the team again, but wants to dedicate more time in preparation, so he can compete in as many as six events.

“I think it will give me motivation to actually go through a training process,” said Wiese, 62, of Warson Woods. “Last year, I spent maybe five weeks to get in some reasonable condition so I didn’t pull a muscle or throw my arm out.

“Now that I’m going to do it again, I think I’ll start my efforts a lot earlier as part of my resolution to be in better shape for the Senior Olympics.”

The 2015 event will be held during the Memorial Day weekend, May 23-25, and AARP is hoping to double the number of team members from 2014.

Those who join will have their registration to the Olympics paid, be enrolled in free workshops on fitness and nutrition, and receive an AARP-branded shirt, water bottle and towel.

For more information, email stlouis@aarp.org or call 866-389-5627 toll-free. —Jason L. Young