The Idea

A Journey to Being the Best Version of Myself for Him

I decided to take better care of myself the moment I learned I was going to be a father at the age of 38.

The core idea was simple: I wanted to be a father who could spend quality time with his son—jumping, running, cycling, swimming, and engaging in every physical activity imaginable without gasping for air. So, I started exercising.

During my wife’s pregnancy, the nutritional advice our doctor gave her became a turning point for both of us. We decided to embrace healthy eating as a family and began paying close attention to what we put on our plates.

Becoming a parent at a later stage in life brings certain anxieties. As I mentioned, the initial worry of “Will I be able to keep up with him as a toddler?” eventually shifted toward more serious concerns. Would I be a healthy, vigorous parent who could support him when he becomes an adult? Or would I become an elderly parent he’d have to care for just as he was starting his own life?

This realization pushed me to commit to regular exercise and a balanced diet in my late 30s.

Before this turning point at 38, my physical activity history was limited: swimming and ping-pong lessons in preschool, some casual BMX stunts during childhood, and high school basketball. Beyond that, I was your typical “skinny-fat” dad-to-be—thin arms and legs, but with a prominent belly.

2012: The ‘skinny-fat’ era. Thin arms, a prominent belly, and no idea that a massive transformation was just around the corner.

This had to change.

Over the years, regular exercise and balanced nutrition became a natural part of my daily life. The road wasn’t always easy, and I didn’t do everything perfectly. However, the simple act of trying, refusing to quit, and staying consistent brought about the transformation. This journey is exactly what 40+ Positive is all about: proving that it’s never too late to redefine your health.

I am 51 years old now. I’m certainly not younger than I was at 38, but I look significantly better. My body is more athletic and muscular. I am healthier and stronger. I feel better than ever. I will be sharing the technical details of this transformation—my workout routines and nutritional strategies—in my upcoming blog posts to help you on your own journey.

2024 Summer

Most importantly, staying true to “The Idea,” I can now cycle for hours with my son without losing my breath. We play basketball together. I can dive off the pier and swim with him over and over again.

And hearing these words from my son makes every drop of sweat worth it:

“I’m so glad you’re my dad.”