Additional Coverage:
- P90X trainer Tony Horton is in the best shape of his life at 66. Here are his top longevity tips. (businessinsider.com)
P90X Creator Tony Horton, 66, Shares His Secrets to Staying Fit
Tony Horton, the man behind the iconic P90X workout program, is proving that age is just a number. At 66, he’s not just keeping up, he says he’s in the best shape of his life.
P90X burst onto the fitness scene in 2005, selling over 3.5 million copies with its high-intensity blend of circuit training and core work. Horton even trained celebrities like Tom Petty, Billy Idol, and Usher.
However, in 2017, Horton was diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt syndrome, a rare neurological disorder. This health scare led him to re-evaluate his fitness approach, prioritizing recovery and stress reduction alongside intense workouts. He incorporated mindfulness practices like rest, music, and quality time with family.
The result? Horton says he’s now fitter than ever, recently skiing six consecutive days in Jackson Hole, a feat he couldn’t have accomplished in his younger years.
These days, Horton is tackling new challenges, including Ninja Warrior-style obstacle courses at his California home gym. He credits his continued fitness to a flexible, primarily plant-based diet, mobility exercises, and a constant pursuit of new physical challenges.
Horton emphasizes that maintaining athleticism isn’t just about lifting weights. It’s about quality of life, longevity, and injury prevention.
His diet consists mainly of plant-based foods like beans, nuts, and seeds, ensuring he gets plenty of protein and fiber. A typical day might include seed bread with almond butter, a protein smoothie, and lentil tacos.
He also allows himself occasional indulgences, like elk steaks or a freshly baked cookie.
While Horton still lifts weights, his routine now includes more yoga and “animal flow” exercises to improve balance, flexibility, and range of motion. He also practices slacklining for balance and stability. He stresses the importance of consistent daily exercise, even if it’s just an eight-minute walk.
For Horton, staying youthful means continually pushing his boundaries. He embraces new challenges like obstacle courses, viewing them as opportunities for growth rather than focusing on wins or losses.
His advice? “Turn your ego off.”