The Reach Out: Scott Kelly
The retired NASA astronaut says, "On Earth, I have always been more of a later afternoon exercise guy."
Retired NASA astronaut Scott Kelly commanded the International Space Station (ISS) on three space expeditions, and was a member of NASA’s yearlong mission to the ISS.
In 2015, Kelly set the record for total number of days spent in space -- the single longest space mission by an American astronaut.
Kelly is also a retired U.S. Navy captain, a former military fighter pilot, test pilot, and engineer.
Kelly’s new book, “Ready for Launch: An Astronaut’s Lessons for Success on Earth,” will be released in April. His previous books include Infinite Wonder: An Astronaut's Photographs from a Year in Space, and Endurance: My Year in Space, A Lifetime of Discovery.
Kelly holds an Honorary Doctorate of Science degree from the State University of New York, and was appointed UN Champion for Space to assist in raising awareness of United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs outreach and activities.
I was eager to ask Scott Kelly about his exercise routine (on Earth and in space).
Is being active an important part of your life?
My wife Amiko and I have a home gym, but we travel a lot. While traveling, we like to get outside and hike or city walk as much as possible.
We recently bought a Winnebago Travato, which so far has encouraged us to get outside more and to some really cool places.
Do you have a workout routine that you stick to?
When I was in space, I liked to exercise before lunch. I guess it’s because I’m not a morning person, but still liked to get it out of the way early. On the ISS, exercise is part of our job and is scheduled, so it was easier to get it done regularly.
On Earth, I have always been more of a later afternoon exercise guy.
Have your exercise habits changed since COVID began?
At the beginning of Covid, we lived in an apartment in downtown Houston, so we stopped using the apartment gym and bought a Peleton.
Now we live in a house in Colorado, in nature, and with a home gym so yes, it has changed significantly.
Is there something that motivates you to keep active and exercise regularly?
Health and energy levels.
When you exercise, do you watch the news, or listen to podcasts or music?
If I am exercising at home, I have the TV on with news.
Outside, I listen to audio books.
Is there a sport or fitness trend that you would like to try one day?
Royal Shrovetide Football.
(Note: This is a ”medieval football" game played annually on Shrove Tuesday and Ash Wednesday in the town of Ashbourne in Derbyshire, England)
Any suggestions for encouraging young kids and teens to get more exercise?
Make it fun.
It makes sense that Scott Kelly is a dedicated exerciser, given how integral physical fitness has been throughout his life. I recall from my kinesiology courses that astronauts train diligently before, during, and after their space expeditions to maintain muscle strength, avoid injury, and execute tasks efficiently. I am looking forward to learning more about Royal Shrovetied Football.
Thank you, @StationCDRKelly
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