At 70, Al Roker—popular Today show weatherman, cancer survivor, and wellness enthusiast—attributes a humble but potent habit with changing his life: walking. Having battled serious health issues, including prostate cancer, blood clots, and several surgeries, Roker went to daily walking as a lifeline. Now, as the “Chief Motivation Officer” of NBC’s Start TODAY wellness program, he reveals five mindset changes that keep him—and thousands of others—moving.
A Journey from Crisis to Consistency
Roker’s health journey has been filled with major challenges. In 2020, he had surgery for prostate cancer. Two years later, he experienced a life-threatening experience of blood clots in his lungs and legs, resulting in several surgeries, including gallbladder removal and colon removal. In spite of these challenges, Roker found comfort and strength in walking.
“My doctor told me the best thing I could do was walk,” Roker explained. “It was my therapy, my meditation, and, frankly, it saved my life.”
The Five Mindset Shifts
- Exercise as Self-Care
Roker repositions exercise not as a responsibility but as something done for himself in a process of self-care. “Walking is my time to think and refuel,” he explains. This mindset shifts what was previously known as exercise into a caring practice, one that is more feasible and pleasurable. - Eliminating Excuses
Consistency is the priority for Roker. He puts a lot of emphasis on eradicating barriers to exercise. “I don’t let weather or a busy schedule stop me,” he states. By keeping movement as part of his day-to-day activity, he guarantees that it’s a fundamental element of his everyday life. - Embracing Imperfection
Roker understands that not every day will be perfect. “Some days, I don’t reach my step goal, and that’s alright,” he confesses. He wants others to embrace where they are on their path and to continue moving forward without self-criticism. - Drawing Motivation from Others
As a public icon, Roker leverages his position to inspire. “That knowing my story can inspire others helps me to keep going,” he explains. This mutual support creates a well community centered around wellness. - All Movement is Valuable
Roker is convinced of the merit of all types of movement. “Every step counts,” he says. By appreciating the importance of little things, he stays in motion and inspires others to do so.
Creating a Culture of Wellness
Through the Start TODAY program, Roker has created a community committed to wellness. Members post about their progress, setbacks, and triumphs, building a support network. Roker’s daily encouragement and motivational messages are a guiding light for those looking to enhance their health.
“We’re all in this together,” Roker stresses. “By sharing our stories, we inspire each other.”
A Legacy of Health and Inspiration
Roker’s devotion to walking and well-being is not just for individual health; it’s a legacy. He wants to make others take their health into their own hands, regardless of where they start. “If I can do it, so can you,” he says.
His path to change highlights the huge influence that state of mind can have on well-being. Having made these five changes, Roker rewrote his own script and encourages numerous others to make the changes also.
