You know your knees are in trouble when you start planning your life around avoiding stairs. Up hurts. Down hurts. Flat surfaces? Still hurts. Walking downhill? Might as well be rolling downhill because these knees aren’t cooperating. And let’s not even talk about getting up from a chair—that’s a full-production event, complete with sound effects.

For years, I told myself, Oh, it’s just a little arthritis, as if that would magically make the bone-on-bone grinding less excruciating. I tried every lotion, potion, brace, and “miracle” supplement that promised relief. Spoiler alert: none of them worked.

Finally, I waved the white flag and went to an orthopedic surgeon. After looking at my X-rays, he just shook his head and said, “I don’t even know how you’re walking.” Encouraging, right? But here’s the thing: these surgeons don’t sugarcoat the process—they tell you straight up that it’s going to be tough. And oh boy, was it tough.

The surgery? Not exactly a walk in the park. The first three weeks? Let’s just say, I discovered new curse words. And rehab? The physical therapists are lovely people, but I’m convinced they moonlight as drill sergeants.

But then—something miraculous happened. By month three, I wasn’t just walking pain-free; I was back at the gym doing squats like my knees were factory-fresh. Stairs? No longer my enemy. Gardening? Back in business. Arthritis pain? Gone. It was as if I had been gifted a brand-new pair of legs—without the inconvenient centaur look.

So, if your knees are making you miserable, stop suffering in silence. Find a great surgeon, get the facts, and take back your mobility. The journey isn’t easy, but neither is living with constant pain. And once you’re recovered, you’ll strut around like the bionic wonder you were always meant to be.

Oh, and one more bonus? When you set off metal detectors at the airport, you finally have a cool story to tell.

Here is anotther one I did:

Remember those gym suits we wore in the ‘60s? We had to ace the Presidential Physical Fitness Tests initiated by Dwight Eisenhower back in 1956!

Then came the era of VHS workout tapes – from Jane Fonda’s “Feel the Burn” and Richard Simmons’ “Sweatin’ to the Oldies” to Tammy Lee Webb’s “Buns of Steel,” Denise Austin’s Rock Aerobics, and even Billy Banks’ Tae Bo. Do any of you still have those old tapes?

Fast forward to today, and Pilates and yoga are taking the spotlight.

According to the CDC, 50% of boomers continue to exercise regularly.

So here’s my challenge: Who were your fitness influencers? When did you first get inspired to get moving, and where do you exercise now? Share your stories and let’s reconnect over our unique fitness journeys!