Guinness World Record Holders Inspire at Newport Workshop

A pair of Guinness World Record holders visited Newport Beach over the weekend to share their formulas for fitness.

Bill Morris, record holder for most consecutive sit-ups, and Yolanda Holder, who has walked more than 300 marathons, hosted the Maximize Your Fitness Potential Conference Friday at the OASIS Senior Center in Corona del Mar.  

"It's importance to have a vision,” Morris, a wellness expert and motivational speaker, told the crowd of older adults. "Attitude is key, it’s important to hang out with like-minded people”.

Attendees probed the Guinness World Record holders on how many sit-ups should be done in a day and how much time should be spent working out. Morris said it varies depending on the person and pointed out the most efficient way to do sit-ups is with hands across the chest and not behind the head. 

“Listening to Bill is like a ray of sunshine,” attendee Nina Stanson said. “He sets goals and meets them, is disciplined, unlike me, he’s so inspirational.”

A strength training seminar was also presented by Robert Keller, a certified strength trainer and OASIS fitness center staff member, who explained that a positive lifestyle change can come at any age.

“Older adults respond the same as younger adults," Keller said. "Which is why our bodies will respond no matter what age we are."

Keller added that exercise can result in several healthy benefits including an improved quality of life and increased independence. Holder, who walked 106 marathons in 2010, said everyone can change their life no matter what age.

The OASIS Fitness Center is part of the OASIS Senior Center and offers strength, cardiovascular and stretching equipment for adults 50 years and older. For more information, call 949-718-1818.