By Eric Watson
As a retired Marine Corps pilot, staying fit was once part of my job. But after I hung up the uniform, life slowed down—and so did I. I gained over 40 pounds and felt sluggish and disconnected from the energy I once thrived on. At the same time, I watched too many
friends and family members pass away far too young from preventable illnesses like heart disease and diabetes. That hit me hard.
I knew I had to make a change—not just for myself, but for my family. I want to be here to see my kids graduate, get married, and have children of their own. So, I took back control of my health. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.
Today, I own Hotworx infrared fitness studio franchise in Bowie, Maryland, a studio offering infrared workouts. More importantly, I’ve become a wellness advocate for people over 50. I post daily tips and encouragement on social media because I believe it’s never too late to live better.
Here are 8 simple tips that helped me—and can help you too:
1. Move Daily You don’t have to train like a Marine. Just move—walk, stretch, swim, or try a low-impact class. I do something every day, even if it’s just morning push-ups. Movement is medicine, and consistency matters more than intensity.
2. Keep It Fresh Boredom kills momentum. I mix it up with weightlifting, biking, rowing, and swimming. Varying your routine keeps you challenged, engaged, and motivated.
3. Focus on Functional Strength We’re not trying to build “pretty” muscles anymore. The goal is to maintain strength and prevent sarcopenia—the age-related loss of muscle mass. Functional exercises help with balance, stability, and everyday movement.
4. Eat Smart and Hydrate Our bodies need more protein and water with age. I follow a plant-based diet—not for everyone, but it’s helped reduce inflammation and boost recovery. Find what works for you and fuel up properly.
5. Stay on Top of Your Health I used to avoid the doctor—especially when I was flying—because I didn’t want to be grounded. Now, I welcome checkups. Knowing what to work on helps me stay ahead of potential issues. Prevention is powerful.
6. Mind Your Mental Health Mental and emotional wellness matter. Stay connected, manage stress, and don’t hesitate to talk to someone. A healthy mind supports a healthy body.
7. Know Your ‘Why’ My “why” is my family. When your reason for staying healthy is personal, staying consistent becomes easier.
8. Try a Hotworx Infrared Fitness Studio If there’s a Hotworx near you, give it a try. We combine infrared heat with isometric and HIIT workouts to boost calorie burn, reduce inflammation, detox through sweat, and improve circulation—all in a low-impact, joint friendly environment.
It’s never too late to turn things around. If I can do it after 50, so can you.
Eric Watson is a retired Marine Corps pilot, owner of a Hotworx infrared fitness studio in Bowie, Maryland, and a wellness advocate for the 50+ community. Follow him on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube at @MrEricWatson for daily health inspiration.
