Takishima Mika, born on January 15, 1931, defies all expectations of age. At 92 years old, she stands as one of the oldest fitness trainers in Japan, offering a testament to the idea that life should be lived to its fullest, regardless of one’s age. Her remarkable journey from an ordinary life to becoming a fitness icon is a true source of inspiration.
While her current fitness levels might lead one to assume a lifelong dedication to athleticism, Takishima’s fitness journey began with a simple motivation: her husband’s concerns about her weight. In an interview with the YouTube channel Story Rewind, she recalled her early days, saying, “I used to be quite plump, my pants were twice the size they are now, and I stubbornly denied being overweight. However, one day, my husband’s comments about my weight prompted me to take action and shed 15 kilograms.”
This initial step into fitness eventually led her to become one of Japan’s oldest fitness trainers. Remarkably, she remained a student under a coach until the age of 79. At 87, she decided to transition to the other side of fitness training and become a fitness trainer herself.
Takishima’s journey underscores her belief that age is merely a number and that it’s never too late to embark on a new endeavor.
In her daily routine, she rises before 4:00 am, a practice she believes provides a vital boost to her day. Her regimen includes a four-kilometer walk, a three-kilometer run, and an additional one-kilometer walk in the opposite direction, which she faithfully follows each day.
However, she emphasizes that fitness alone is not sufficient for overall health; a proper diet is essential. Takishima’s breakfast consists of mackerel or grilled salmon, eggs, natto, tofu, kimchi, and vegetables marinated in rice bran. Her lunch is lighter, typically comprising a banana and a probiotic drink. For dinner, she opts for a vegetable chicken soup or similar alternatives, prioritizing natural and healthy ingredients while avoiding artificial additives.
Takishima’s transformative journey serves as a remarkable and inspirational story. Her ultimate goal is to travel through all 47 regions of Japan, sharing her fitness expertise with as many people as possible. Her story has the power to reignite hope in those who may have felt limited by their age.
In a world often centered around youth, Takishima Mika stands out as a testament to the possibilities of fitness and well-being at any age. Her discipline, positive attitude, and dedication serve as a shining example that age should never be a barrier to pursuing a healthy and active life.
Takishima’s journey to becoming Japan’s oldest fitness trainer should inspire us all to break free from the constraints of age and embrace life to its fullest potential.