PHILIP PROCIDA

79, cycling, Chicago/Tucson, Ariz.

When Procida’s knees and back began complaining in his 50s, he swapped running for biking. “My first ride was 10 miles, and I had to rest three times. But I immediately fell in love with the sport.” Since then, he has been in countless races, dividing his time between Chicago and Tucson so that, wherever he is, it’s biking season. He still rides 200 miles a week, mostly with younger riders.

His advantage over younger athletes? “Cycling isn’t just cranking,” he says. “It’s knowing your limits and the terrain and planning. I have a mantra: Just do your race. You don’t always have to be out in front.” For his 80th birthday in August, Procida will lead an 80-mile ride. “When I’m on my bike,” he says, “I’m ageless.” Tip: “As we age, our bodies break down. And if you don’t take care of your body, it will break down quicker. My goal is to delay the process. After exercise, you may collapse the rest of the day, but you do it with a smile on your face.”