Over 40 and looking for some inspiration to jump-start your workouts? These guys might be just the kick in the butt you need.

With yet another birthday staring me in the face, I am reminded of the relentless march of Father Time and the havoc he can wreak, if we let him! Well, despite the inevitable occasional sore muscle or creaky knee, I’m here to say, “Screw you Grim Reaper… I’m not giving up without a fight!” I think the men profiled here would agree with that sentiment.

It’s no secret that once we cross the big 4-0 milestone, getting in, and staying in shape suddenly becomes a much tougher proposition than during the glory days of our youth. Cross-over into the 50-something zone and all bets are definitely off. You’re on your own fella, or are we? Just like with any other goal that we set, it helps to have mentors, examples of guys who have gone before us and achieved our objectives to inspire and guide us. It is certainly no different in our pursuit of better fitness and health. The question is, are there any role models and shining examples of men over 40 in knock-out, great shape? How about over 50?? The answer is a resounding… Oh yeah!

No doubt you recognize the guys in the pictures accompanying this story. Stars of the big and small screen, we have in some cases, grown up with them. Yet while some of our own waistlines have expanded, somehow these men have found a way to, if not turn back the clock, at least slow it way the hell down! Take for instance the guys pictured in the first image at top; (left) Hugh Jackman-age 43 and (right) Matt Lauer-age 54! Now, we might expect the actor who portrays Wolverine from the X-Men to be in super-hero shape, but morning talk show host Matt Lauer? I mean… look at the dude! And he’s 54!! Well done sir… Well done.

How about our second image? Big-time actor Aaron Eckhart-age 44 clearly knows the route to the fountain of youth… Ass-busting hard work! Sure, these guys can no doubt afford the best trainers, nutritionists and diets and supplements money can buy. The fact remains though, they still have to put in the hard work, day in and day out to achieve these kinds of results past 40 that many young bucks in their 20′s would kill for! How many workouts did you miss this week?

Let’s face it, there is always a reason, if we look hard enough for one, to blow off that workout or have that extra helping at dinner. Sometimes the reward for staying on track has to be big enough to step away from the plate, or drag ourselves to the gym even in the pouring rain when all we really want to do is stay under the covers and hit the snooze button one more time. For these guys, the goal is obvious, it’s their job to look great. If they don’t?… Their lack of effort is blown-up, larger than life on the big screen. Talk about motivation to stay the course! It sure seems to be working for the timeless-wonder himself, Tom Cruise-age 50 (image #3). Hard to believe our favorite Top Gun is now 50! Even harder to believe it judging from this picture. The guy is ripped! Well-known as an intense individual in all of his endeavors, obviously this effort and preparation extends to the gym as well.

Even though he made his fortune making the world laugh since the early 80s, there is nothing funny about Eddie Murphy’s-age 51 physique! Yes, you heard me right… I said age 51!! (image #4). Judging from this picture, there is no doubt Mr Murphy knows his way around the weight room.

The list of men who are defying the aging process certainly isn’t limited to the big screen. Known primarily for his work on television, Dylan McDermott-age 50 (image #5) is another prime example of a guy who is redefining what it means to age gracefully. Look at him! Hard to believe this guy qualifies for an AARP card! Are you feeling motivated yet guys? I know I am!

Of course, no list of men over 40 who are rewriting the rule book when it comes to getting old would be complete without Mr P90X himself, Tony Horton-age 53!! (image #6). While technically not a movie star, there is no doubt that Tony Horton has probably trained some of them, if not personally, then certainly through the P90X program. Think you can keep up with this 53 year old dynamo? Think again.

Let’s face it guys, the rules have changed. With modern workout routines, supplementation and advances in medicine, the opportunity to live a longer, stronger and healthier life and look better while doing it has never been more attainable. Sure, we may not be stars of the big screen, but chances are good that there is somebody in your life that would certainly appreciate your efforts to look your best, no matter what your age. Now drop and give us 20!!

Randy – A life Designed

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