A Forward Roll Saved My Life

by Gwyn Whittaker, Owner of Greenfare

My Dad, a rocket scientist who spent 40 years at NASA in the space program, will be 91

this year. He has always been interested in science and optimal health: he introduced me to the DASH diet about 20 years ago and has always been an avid exerciser. He can run six miles and could probably “take down” men twenty years his junior. He is one of the smartest people I know.

Last year, he was attending an outdoor show with my mom and sister, and while stepping down to sit between them, he missed his footing and ended up rolling about four rows of seats down. As you can imagine, the seated audience collectively gasped in horror as they watched this white-haired man tumble. As my dad landed on his feet, he immediately sprang up and with his arms in the air shouted, “I’m ok!!” to which the audience cheered. After some ribbing by the family encouraging him to join the Cirque du Soleil, he simply said, “knowing how to do a forward roll saved my life.” He then sent a YouTube video to the family on how to do it properly.

This episode got me thinking about the complex exercises that we learn as children that spark

neurons and engage all aspects of our brain and body as we make the movement, but how as

most of us age, default to simple, repetitive movements that do not. Think of hula hooping,

handstands, jumping jacks, dancing, jump rope (double Dutch?!!), softball, and of course,

somersaults. I refer to walking on a treadmill while holding the bar as “preparing for a walker.”

No visual motion, no stepping down, no balance or stability, just a simple repetitive leg

movement. Better than nothing, but significantly better to get outside and move in a real

complex environment.

Anyway, being curious and inspired by my Dad’s words, I decided to try a forward roll and

armed with his video, I decided to try one in the safety of my home on the carpet. With slow and cautious movement, I executed the first five steps with a rapid spin and not only saw stars, but I startled the heck out of my dogs who immediately came running over to lick my face and help me recover. I did a second one and my body started to relax a bit, but I was still unable to stand at the end. Patience and persistence has always been my motto, so that is my current goal.

As we teach in the 21 Day Kickstart, exercise is movement, and all aspects are good, but

variety and (safely pushing yourself) is better: strength training, aerobic, balance, flexibility, and endurance. I hope you are inspired to add more complex motions to your life!

Best wishes for your health and happiness,

Gwyn Whittaker

CEO GreenFare