CONTRIBUTOR SPOTLIGHT : Susan Sommers

​Susan Sommers, is an amazing example that age really is just a number and that you can start living the life you want at any age. At 72, Susan describes herself as:

​“A well-oiled machine, sagging in parts and creased in others – but it is all mine.”

​Susan’s vision for physical and mental fitness emerged from her own long-standing issues and struggles with weight and body image. She thus brings unique personal inspiration to her quest to mentor and educate women about the life-changing impact of a proper program of health and fitness. She co-authored Power Source for Women: Proven Fitness Strategies, Tools, and Stories for Women 45+ in 2010 and Love Your Body…Embrace Your Life! in 2016.

To learn more about Susan visit her website Power Source for Women .

What fitness advice would you give your 50 year old self?
Create daily morning rituals - it took me until my early 70's to commit to a daily ritual  (warm up; walk, do weights, or swim; try to do 10,000 steps per day; and stretch at the end). 
Also, sign up for a 5k walk race and cross the finish line - it is the most exciting moment when you receive the race medal to cheering crowds.

What is your favorite way to unwind at the end of the week?
I love to go downtown on Friday afternoons to a small bar/hotel, drink a beer, and listen to two sets of live jazz, led by a female vocalist.

If you only have 20 minutes what is your workout?
Stationery bike indoors or walk/ slow jog outdoors, then a stretch.

Food item you indulge in?
I enjoy pretzels or Wheat Thins with some cheese. I am a crunchy cracker fan - these snacks replace the Ripple Chips that I cannot keep in the house!

Wine or Beer?
Wine - Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc.