The One Thing Dick Van Dyke Does To Help Combat Stiffness In His Older Years

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In an excerpt from his latest book, 100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist's Guide to a Happy Life, comedy legend Dick Van Dyke shared his secret for combating stiffness as he approaches his 100th birthday: heading to the gym at least three times a week. "If I miss too many gym days, I really can feel it — a stiffness creeping in here and there," said the star. "If I let that set in, well, God help me." 

The soon-to-be centenarian, born on December 13, 1925, further revealed some of the "carrots" he uses to motivate himself to exercise regularly, including a sharper mind, nimble dancing, and a post-workout smoothie. "At the gym I usually do a circuit, going from one machine to the next without a break, in a circle," said Van Dyke, adding that he makes sure to do all the leg machines "because my legs are two of my most cherished possessions."

However, he says music is the real key, with him humming, singing, and dancing as he goes from one machine to the next. "And if I'm really feeling it, I'm no quiet warbler; I'm a Broadway belter," said the iconic actor. "By the end I'm in a sweaty rush, the blood flowing from fingertips to toes, and my spirits are soaring," he said (via The Times).

This isn't the first time Van Dyke has put pen to paper to speak about aging well through exercise. In Keep Moving: And Other Tips and Truths About Living Well Longer, which was published about 10 years prior to his current effort, the "Diagnosis: Murder" actor was already sharing his sage advice about aging gracefully. "You don't have to act your age. You don't even have to feel it. And if it does attempt to elbow its way into your life, you do not have to pay attention," he wrote, adding that when people ask his secret to staying youthful, he tells them, "Keep moving."

More recently, in a video posted to Instagram on October 7, 2025, the still-lithe actor appeared seated on the ground with legs crossed, surrounded by exercise equipment. Smiling broadly, he told his audience, "I'm looking forward to a 100. George Burns made it, and I'm going to do it too." 

Health professionals agree with Dick Van Dyke when it comes to the benefits of exercising as you grow older. According to Dr. Linda Fried, dean of Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health, it's "the closest thing we've found to a magic pill for combating the effects of aging" (via National Council on Aging [NCOA]). NCOA cites research showing that exercise might be able to boost immunity, slow the biological clock, and delay brain aging.

If you aren't currently active, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) suggests that it's a good idea to begin, no matter your age. They advise starting gradually and including a variety of exercise types, including cardio, strength training, and balance work. They additionally note that even short bouts of activity can add up to the weekly recommendation of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and two days of strength exercises. Begin at your current level and gradually work your way up. Exercising with a friend or joining a class, even a virtual one, can help you stay motivated. They also point out the importance of wearing comfortable shoes and clothing and paying attention to safety as you gradually build physical activity into your daily life.