Jul 30, 2026
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Gina’s family, left to right: Son Mark Rolow with his wife, Tiana, holding Giuliana while pregnant with Nicolette; Granddaughter Emma; Son-in-law Glenn Alexander holding grandson Andrew with daughter Alanna Rolow Alexander and granddaughter, Isla; Gina and husband Mark Rolow; daughter Andrea and son-in-law Selleck Zanniovich with grandchildren Emilia, Leo and Siena. Photographer credit: Linsey Middleton
Prioritizing healthy habits can be challenging. Women in particular often find little time for themselves as they balance responsibilities, from careers to caregiving.
Making exercise a habit has been a lifelong pursuit for Gina Rolow, 67, who trains private clients, in addition to working at a gym. A graduate of California State University, Bakersfield, she has taught fitness for more than 40 years.
Gina volunteers with Bakersfield Strays, a local dog rescue, which keeps her on the move. Alongside her husband, Mark, she keeps up with their three grown children and eight grandchildren, a family portrait representative of that active lifestyle.
Gina’s positive example is proof fitness can be a fit throughout life.
Exercise offers multiple benefits, including strength and agility. Boosting mental health, increasing patience and resilience are also documented findings.
“There are more than 650 muscles in your body and they need to be moving,” said Gina. “You exercise because you can. If I can't run, I'm going to walk. If I can't walk, I'm going to crawl.”
Gina lives an active life with her grandchildren. Photo credit: Andrea Zanniovich
“Exercise matters at every life phase. Right now, I work on my core, improve balance, and maintain muscle mass,” said Gina. “It’s not about being able to fit in a tiny swimsuit. It’s about quality of life.”
Fitness helps people live better, she explained, with consistent habits to build wellness. Some days just don’t go as planned, however.
“When I was a young mom, there was homework, clean up, dinner but kids have a happier childhood when they have a happier mom. Exercise is part of that,” she explained. “It can always be part of your life at varying levels of frequency and intensity.”
Gina suggests waking up before the family is awake to squeeze in exercise.
“Go when no one will miss you,” she suggested. “Prioritize it as an appointment and schedule with a babysitter or use the gym daycare.”
A gym membership isn’t necessary to stay fit.
Four generations in one photo. Left to right: Gina’s daughter, Alanna Rolow Alexander, granddaughter Isla, and Gina, alongside Gina’s mother, Fidela, age 90. Photo courtesy of the Rolow Family.
Consistency matters more than intensity because it builds healthy habits.
“If I can get in a workout, I will go. Tomorrow isn’t promised, so I’d better do it while I can,” she said. “Habits make or break you. Consistency says you're always going to do something. If I can't run, I'm going to walk; if I can't walk, I'm going to crawl.”
Family activities could include taking walks and dancing together.
“Go back to basics. I’ve taught my grandchildren to use a jump rope and a hula hoop. They love to play cornhole. A kid isn’t going to get excited about running a mile but you can make it an obstacle course.”
Other suggestions:
- Try a game of Twister for reaching/stretching; add sit-ups.
- Do somersaults together.
- Try hiking.
Gina recommends incorporating physical activity into your daily routine with simple activities like going to the park. Even playing a TV show with physical activities like dance or martial arts can spark an interest, especially if children are shown.
“When you choose health, your family will notice,” said Gina. “You're leaving a path for everyone else to follow.”
Being patient with yourself is key, especially as you make changes. Not every day is a workout day.
Mindset shifts are part of change, including:
- Progress over perfection.
- Grace on hard days.
- Movement as self‑care.
“Take every day that you exercise as a win,” said Gina. “That’s money in the bank.”
Gina lives by the MOVE acronym:
M - Make time for yourself.
O - Own your own health.
V - Value every step that you're able to take.
E - Every day counts.
Other aspects of wellness are vital. Rest is essential, with experts recommending at least six hours per night. A balanced diet, including hydration with at least 60 ounces of water, is essential.
Gina also recommends families pack purposeful snacks.
“You can’t outrun a bad diet. Don’t be tempted by the drive-thru. I've got walnuts, pistachio bars, protein bars and coolers with water in my car,” she said.
Start small with what feels doable today. Give one healthy habit a try and see if it’s feasible to continue for another day. Small changes add up.
Proud grandparents Mark and Gina Rolow with three of their grandchildren. Photo credit: Andrea Zanniovich
Finding joy in movement with your family is a wonderful way to make memories together. Enjoy summer’s last days with purposeful activities that contribute to healthy habits into fall. One day at a time, take care of yourself, through all of life’s seasons.
Fill-in-the-blank questions:
Q. Favorite local restaurant: Sorella's Ristorante Italiano
Q. Strangest thing in my purse today: Sunscreen spilled and kibble
Q. First thing I do when I wake up in the morning: I have about 10 ounces of water and go straight for three to four cups of plain black coffee
Q. Favorite musical group: Korean Soul
Q. Best fitness advice you have to share so far: It's not about looking younger, it's about living better, having energy to chase grandchildren, living independently, saying yes to adventures instead of sitting them out and creating a life that's full, not just of years but instead of vitality.
