Gary’s review of Boom, Baby, Boom! > Likes and Comments
Like
This book was written to not be just another boring book about fitness and health. The chapters have catchy intriguing names, there is humor and sarcasm scattered in, and there are great quotes throughout the book that are relevant to the subject being discussed.
Boom, Baby, Boom! is a rallying call for Baby Boomers to break the mold and live remarkably. Inspired by Seth Godin’s concept of the “Purple Cow, readers are challenged to be extraordinary—standing out from the crowd by embracing a lifestyle that’s vibrant, active, and purpose-driven.
With energy and encouragement, the book spotlights boomers who defy expectations— those who prioritize fitness, optimism, and productivity to lead fulfilling lives.
They are the "Purple Cows" of their generation: remarkable, inspiring, and proof that age is no limit to excellence.
This book is not just a motivational read—it’s a movement. A celebration of Baby
Boomers who refuse to fade quietly and instead choose to thrive with vitality and vision.
In Boom, Baby, Boom!’s book introduction, baby boomers are invited to reclaim their health and vitality by embracing a proactive,
positive lifestyle. Inspired by Seth Godin’s concept of the “Purple Cow,
which urges readers to be remarkable— physically, mentally, and spiritually—as they age.
The author speaks directly to those in their 40s to 60s, sharing his personal journey of fitness and
well-being as proof that age is not a barrier to living fully. Simple, sustainable changes are emphasized through nutrition, exercise, supplements, and mindset shifts.
Backed by real-life experience, not professional athletics, the message is clear: staying healthy is achievable for anyone willing to commit. The book includes practical guidance, encouragement, and suggested routines tailored to this generation’s needs. Ultimately, it’s a motivating roadmap to help readers live longer, feel better, and enjoy retirement with strength and purpose—no magic, just dedication. The message: “Get
through this book, and make it happen.
Who Do You Think You Are?
In this section of Boom Baby Boom I reflect on my journey from a demanding IT career to embracing a vibrant, healthy lifestyle. Despite decades of professional success and personal challenges, I chose not to let age or circumstance limit my activity level. Motivated by a desire to stay involved with my active family, I began running—eventually completing over 40
marathons, including Boston, and coaching others along the way. Initially unable to run half a mile, I pushed through physical struggles and learned to set realistic, personal
goals. The chapter emphasizes the importance of not comparing your journey to others and reminds readers that setbacks are part of progress. With passion, humor, and
candor, I encourage readers to pursue fitness as a means of maintaining energy, reducing stress, and living fully into their later years. My message is clear: it’s
never too late to start, and the path to better health is yours to choose—so don’t quit.
In this section of the book called ‘Three Voltage Levels’, the three levels of people are discussed.
People can be grouped by how they manage their energy: short-circuited, battery charger required, or efficient energy source.
The short-circuited group is high-energy and but chaotic and impatient, rushing into tasks without structure. They’re always moving but rarely productive.
The battery charger group struggles with low energy and motivation, requiring external
stimulation to function. They procrastinate and often lack direction.
In contrast, the efficient energy group maintains balance, discipline, and a methodical plan. These
individuals are consistent, self-sufficient, and patient, understanding that improvement
is a lifelong journey. They generate energy through healthy habits and prioritize progress over perfection.
The chapter encourages readers to be part of this third group: not by achieving an ideal image, but by building the healthiest version of themselves for long-term success.
Feeling Fit, Fattish, Frumpy, or Faltering?
This chapter of the book explores the power of mindset and movement, asking readers to evaluate how they feel—fit, frumpy, or faltering—and challenges them to take control of their health.
It highlights how the more we move, the more energy we gain, while inactivity feeds procrastination. Commitment, not excuses, is key to meaningful change. The chapter urges readers to avoid impatience, likening lifestyle change to pushing a crosswalk button—you may not see instant results, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a working.
Progress requires consistency. Sweating is essential, not optional, and stepping up your intensity is necessary for real physical gains. The concept of target strength heart rate zones is introduced to help readers exercise safely and effectively.
Finally, the chapter compares life’s journey to a cycling race emphasizing the importance of
pacing and goal-setting across decades to achieve long-term wellness.
The core message: stop waiting, commit, and push forward—your future health depends on it.
Things That Make My Mojo Go
This chapter emphasizes the importance of cross-training, combining multiple forms of
exercise—like running, biking, strength training, and walking—for a strong, injury-free lifestyle. There are personal stories of training and races, showing how setting
realistic, incremental goals can help build endurance and consistency.
Strength training is presented as essential, especially with age, to prevent muscle loss, improve
metabolism, and protect joints—particularly knees.
Proper form, breathing, and
equipment are stressed to avoid injury. Travel-friendly tools like portable roller bars can help maintain routines on the go.
The chapter also celebrates walking as a valuable form of exercise, noting its versatility and benefits for cardiovascular health.
Real-life stories—like being outpaced by an elderly woman during a triathlon—highlight lessons
in humility and the value of commitment.
Ultimately, the message is to stay consistent, push through excuses, and design a program that keeps your body strong, mobile, and
prepared for a long, healthy life.
Do Something About Your Problematic ESP
This chapter urges readers to overcome "Exercise Stagnation Procrastination" (ESP) and commit to a physical activity that raises the heart rate. Using the analogy of
business goal-setting, the author encourages readers to define lifestyle goals, write them down, and track progress.
Walking and swimming are common options, but the main message is to do something—anything that promotes movement and health.
Indoor alternatives like treadmills, rowing machines, or climbing walls are also valid.
The takeaway: excuses and inaction are your worst enemies. Start small if needed, but act now—any effort is better than none.
Understanding Motivation Factors
This chapter emphasizes the importance of making health and fitness a lifestyle by tackling excuses, establishing routines, and committing to measurable goals. The author shares personal stories about overcoming “Exercise Stagnation Procrastination” and encourages choosing an activity that suits individual preferences —be it walking, swimming, biking, or indoor workouts. Motivation is
reinforced through accountability tools like daily calendars, visualizations of success, and positive mental habits.
Confidence, especially when built through discipline and achievement, plays a vital role in sustaining progress. The text also
highlights the power of social motivation —partnering up, joining teams, or participating in organized runs. Consistency, repetition, and structure are key to “success holding the gain” . Tracking progress, such as through running logs, helps maintain momentum.
Ultimately, the author asserts that age is not a barrier—energy, mindset, and intentional habits are.
“We are not our age. We are our energy.”
Eat, Drink, and Be Happy
This chapter explains that exercise alone isn't enough—nutrition is equally vital. Using analogies like fueling a Ferrari, it stresses treating your body with high-quality food to ensure peak performance.
It covers brain-boosting foods (like broccoli, beans, and whole grains), antioxidant-rich superfoods (such as berries, acai, and flaxseed), and mood-enhancing nutrients.
The author explains how antioxidants fight aging and disease, and introduces lesser-known but powerful foods like spirulina and quinoa.
Readers are reminded to follow USDA guidelines for food group servings and to avoid skipping meals. Occasional “fun” foods are okay—as long as they’re treated as mindful rewards, not habits.
The chapter also explores the value of hydration, fiber, green tea, and nutritional drinks, particularly for the aging population.
Ultimately, the message is clear: nourish your body with purpose and knowledge, and you’ll feel the long-term benefits in energy, mental sharpness, and vitality.
Stay Positive, Stay Focused, Stay on Track
This chapter emphasizes the power of perseverance, positivity, and personal responsibility in achieving long-term health and life goals. This reflects on the mindset differences between those who press on through hardship and those who give up, asserting that persistence stems not from lack of self-doubt but from refusing to let it win.
Through personal stories—such as a resilient sister-in-law battling cancer and marathon trainees overcoming physical challenges— the chapter shows how attitude, not excuses, defines success.
Readers are encouraged to reframe setbacks as temporary, stop making excuses, and focus on progress over perfection. Real-life frustrations, like weight plateaus or depressive slumps, are met with the solution to pivot, stay patient, and resume movement toward goals.
The chapter also explores how AI-powered tools can support fitness and nutrition efforts with personalized plans and real-time feedback.
The takeaway is clear: discipline, hope, and consistency—not perfect conditions— create lasting transformation.
Enjoy the Journey
This chapter encourages readers to embrace life with intention, joy, and responsibility.
It emphasizes being the cause of your own happiness by setting and pursuing meaningful goals—whether big or small—and enjoying the process of achieving them.
Through the example of his children, particularly his son who seeks new experiences and challenges, the author illustrates how pursuing passions and trying new things can enrich one's journey.
The message is clear: don’t just chase outcomes—make the journey count. Whether it’s fitness or personal growth, take ownership, act now, and make memories you’ll be proud of.
Appendix F
Want to be King or Queen of the racket courts? This appendix explores three popular racket sports—pickleball, tennis, and racquetball.
It explains the rising popularity of pickleball, especially among seniors, and break down its basic rules, serving sequence, and recommended beginner paddles. It also offers a detailed overview of tennis, including equipment, rules, six core strokes, and step-by-step beginner tips for serving, ground strokes, volleys, and overhead smashes. Competitive play, gear recommendations, and tournament tips are included.
The section ends with a brief introduction to racquetball, highlighting gameplay variations and court layout. Each sport is accessibly to help beginners confidently start.
Boom Baby Boom Appendix G
Appendix G explores the nutritional pros and cons of various seeds and nuts. Sunflower, sesame, walnut, hazelnut, pecan, pistachio, and peanut varieties are highlighted for their health benefits such as heart health, weight management,
digestion, and rich nutrient profiles.
However, many also pose risks like high calorie or sodium content, allergies, and, in peanuts' case, potential food poisoning or
inflammation.
Each section encourages mindful consumption—highlighting how
moderation, preparation methods, and awareness of allergies are key to enjoying these foods as part of a healthy diet.
Appendix H explores various nutritional drinks beneficial for seniors. Protein shakes like Boost and Ensure Max offer essential nutrients but may cause mild side effects such as bloating or nausea.
Vegan protein shakes are ideal for those with dietary restrictions. Kefir is rich in calcium, vitamin K₂, and probiotics, aiding digestion, bone health, and immunity. Kombucha supports gut health, blood sugar control, and offers anti-aging benefits.
Cold-pressed juices provide fiber and nutrients but may be high in sugar. Vegetable juices like carrot juice improve digestion, vision, and
detoxification. Green juices from spinach, kale, and cucumber are rich in vitamins and support digestion and eye health.
Together, these beverages can help seniors meet their nutritional needs and improve overall well-being.
Boom Baby Boom- Appendix I
This appendix offers simple and sustainable meal ideas for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
that lean toward the healthy side.
The Breakfasts include options like hard-boiled eggs, fruit, croissants, and scrambled eggs with veggies.
Lunches revolve around easy sandwiches using ingredients such as deli turkey, eggs, tuna, avocado, and whole-grain bread.
For dinner, the author recommends quick, balanced meals like grilled fish, pork chops, roasted chicken, and green or kale salads, often using fresh vegetables or pre-packaged kits. The meals are designed to be easy to prepare with leftovers in mind, with chicken from Costco or Winco as a go-to protein staple.
Appendix J reviews top heart rate monitor watches based on features, cost, and health benefits.
The Fitbit Versa 4 is praised for overall value, tracking multiple metrics and offering various sport modes.
The Fitbit Sense 2 excels in overall health tracking, especially stress and sleep, but lacks app integration and is pricey.
The The Garmin Vivosmart 5 is ideal for small wrists and includes oxygen saturation monitoring, though setup can be tricky.
The Google Pixel Watch stands out for those with heart conditions, offering EKG monitoring, 24-hour battery, and extensive fitness tracking, though it comes at a high cost.
The final word encourages readers to lead by example, live healthfully, and stay motivated even when efforts feel unrewarded.
Drawing from an Olympian’s advice, the team is author notes that feeling good about one’s progress happens only a third of the time— so don’t quit when it’s hard.
Seth Godin’s inspirational books are recommended and readers are urged to apply “due diligence” to their health choices. The message is one of perseverance, positivity, and intentional living.
Closing quotes reinforce themes of gratitude, forward-looking hope, and the joy of appreciating life. The author signs off with a rallying call: “Boom, baby, boom!
back to top
date
newest »
newest »
message 1:
by
Gary
(new)
Aug 12, 2025 12:56PM
This book was written to not be just another boring book about fitness and health. The chapters have catchy intriguing names, there is humor and sarcasm scattered in, and there are great quotes throughout the book that are relevant to the subject being discussed.
reply
|
flag
Boom, Baby, Boom! is a rallying call for Baby Boomers to break the mold and live remarkably. Inspired by Seth Godin’s concept of the “Purple Cow, readers are challenged to be extraordinary—standing out from the crowd by embracing a lifestyle that’s vibrant, active, and purpose-driven.With energy and encouragement, the book spotlights boomers who defy expectations— those who prioritize fitness, optimism, and productivity to lead fulfilling lives.
They are the "Purple Cows" of their generation: remarkable, inspiring, and proof that age is no limit to excellence.
This book is not just a motivational read—it’s a movement. A celebration of Baby
Boomers who refuse to fade quietly and instead choose to thrive with vitality and vision.
In Boom, Baby, Boom!’s book introduction, baby boomers are invited to reclaim their health and vitality by embracing a proactive,positive lifestyle. Inspired by Seth Godin’s concept of the “Purple Cow,
which urges readers to be remarkable— physically, mentally, and spiritually—as they age.
The author speaks directly to those in their 40s to 60s, sharing his personal journey of fitness and
well-being as proof that age is not a barrier to living fully. Simple, sustainable changes are emphasized through nutrition, exercise, supplements, and mindset shifts.
Backed by real-life experience, not professional athletics, the message is clear: staying healthy is achievable for anyone willing to commit. The book includes practical guidance, encouragement, and suggested routines tailored to this generation’s needs. Ultimately, it’s a motivating roadmap to help readers live longer, feel better, and enjoy retirement with strength and purpose—no magic, just dedication. The message: “Get
through this book, and make it happen.
Who Do You Think You Are?In this section of Boom Baby Boom I reflect on my journey from a demanding IT career to embracing a vibrant, healthy lifestyle. Despite decades of professional success and personal challenges, I chose not to let age or circumstance limit my activity level. Motivated by a desire to stay involved with my active family, I began running—eventually completing over 40
marathons, including Boston, and coaching others along the way. Initially unable to run half a mile, I pushed through physical struggles and learned to set realistic, personal
goals. The chapter emphasizes the importance of not comparing your journey to others and reminds readers that setbacks are part of progress. With passion, humor, and
candor, I encourage readers to pursue fitness as a means of maintaining energy, reducing stress, and living fully into their later years. My message is clear: it’s
never too late to start, and the path to better health is yours to choose—so don’t quit.
In this section of the book called ‘Three Voltage Levels’, the three levels of people are discussed. People can be grouped by how they manage their energy: short-circuited, battery charger required, or efficient energy source.
The short-circuited group is high-energy and but chaotic and impatient, rushing into tasks without structure. They’re always moving but rarely productive.
The battery charger group struggles with low energy and motivation, requiring external
stimulation to function. They procrastinate and often lack direction.
In contrast, the efficient energy group maintains balance, discipline, and a methodical plan. These
individuals are consistent, self-sufficient, and patient, understanding that improvement
is a lifelong journey. They generate energy through healthy habits and prioritize progress over perfection.
The chapter encourages readers to be part of this third group: not by achieving an ideal image, but by building the healthiest version of themselves for long-term success.
Feeling Fit, Fattish, Frumpy, or Faltering?This chapter of the book explores the power of mindset and movement, asking readers to evaluate how they feel—fit, frumpy, or faltering—and challenges them to take control of their health.
It highlights how the more we move, the more energy we gain, while inactivity feeds procrastination. Commitment, not excuses, is key to meaningful change. The chapter urges readers to avoid impatience, likening lifestyle change to pushing a crosswalk button—you may not see instant results, but that doesn’t mean it’s not a working.
Progress requires consistency. Sweating is essential, not optional, and stepping up your intensity is necessary for real physical gains. The concept of target strength heart rate zones is introduced to help readers exercise safely and effectively.
Finally, the chapter compares life’s journey to a cycling race emphasizing the importance of
pacing and goal-setting across decades to achieve long-term wellness.
The core message: stop waiting, commit, and push forward—your future health depends on it.
Things That Make My Mojo GoThis chapter emphasizes the importance of cross-training, combining multiple forms of
exercise—like running, biking, strength training, and walking—for a strong, injury-free lifestyle. There are personal stories of training and races, showing how setting
realistic, incremental goals can help build endurance and consistency.
Strength training is presented as essential, especially with age, to prevent muscle loss, improve
metabolism, and protect joints—particularly knees.
Proper form, breathing, and
equipment are stressed to avoid injury. Travel-friendly tools like portable roller bars can help maintain routines on the go.
The chapter also celebrates walking as a valuable form of exercise, noting its versatility and benefits for cardiovascular health.
Real-life stories—like being outpaced by an elderly woman during a triathlon—highlight lessons
in humility and the value of commitment.
Ultimately, the message is to stay consistent, push through excuses, and design a program that keeps your body strong, mobile, and
prepared for a long, healthy life.
Do Something About Your Problematic ESPThis chapter urges readers to overcome "Exercise Stagnation Procrastination" (ESP) and commit to a physical activity that raises the heart rate. Using the analogy of
business goal-setting, the author encourages readers to define lifestyle goals, write them down, and track progress.
Walking and swimming are common options, but the main message is to do something—anything that promotes movement and health.
Indoor alternatives like treadmills, rowing machines, or climbing walls are also valid.
The takeaway: excuses and inaction are your worst enemies. Start small if needed, but act now—any effort is better than none.
Understanding Motivation FactorsThis chapter emphasizes the importance of making health and fitness a lifestyle by tackling excuses, establishing routines, and committing to measurable goals. The author shares personal stories about overcoming “Exercise Stagnation Procrastination” and encourages choosing an activity that suits individual preferences —be it walking, swimming, biking, or indoor workouts. Motivation is
reinforced through accountability tools like daily calendars, visualizations of success, and positive mental habits.
Confidence, especially when built through discipline and achievement, plays a vital role in sustaining progress. The text also
highlights the power of social motivation —partnering up, joining teams, or participating in organized runs. Consistency, repetition, and structure are key to “success holding the gain” . Tracking progress, such as through running logs, helps maintain momentum.
Ultimately, the author asserts that age is not a barrier—energy, mindset, and intentional habits are.
“We are not our age. We are our energy.”
Eat, Drink, and Be HappyThis chapter explains that exercise alone isn't enough—nutrition is equally vital. Using analogies like fueling a Ferrari, it stresses treating your body with high-quality food to ensure peak performance.
It covers brain-boosting foods (like broccoli, beans, and whole grains), antioxidant-rich superfoods (such as berries, acai, and flaxseed), and mood-enhancing nutrients.
The author explains how antioxidants fight aging and disease, and introduces lesser-known but powerful foods like spirulina and quinoa.
Readers are reminded to follow USDA guidelines for food group servings and to avoid skipping meals. Occasional “fun” foods are okay—as long as they’re treated as mindful rewards, not habits.
The chapter also explores the value of hydration, fiber, green tea, and nutritional drinks, particularly for the aging population.
Ultimately, the message is clear: nourish your body with purpose and knowledge, and you’ll feel the long-term benefits in energy, mental sharpness, and vitality.
Stay Positive, Stay Focused, Stay on TrackThis chapter emphasizes the power of perseverance, positivity, and personal responsibility in achieving long-term health and life goals. This reflects on the mindset differences between those who press on through hardship and those who give up, asserting that persistence stems not from lack of self-doubt but from refusing to let it win.
Through personal stories—such as a resilient sister-in-law battling cancer and marathon trainees overcoming physical challenges— the chapter shows how attitude, not excuses, defines success.
Readers are encouraged to reframe setbacks as temporary, stop making excuses, and focus on progress over perfection. Real-life frustrations, like weight plateaus or depressive slumps, are met with the solution to pivot, stay patient, and resume movement toward goals.
The chapter also explores how AI-powered tools can support fitness and nutrition efforts with personalized plans and real-time feedback.
The takeaway is clear: discipline, hope, and consistency—not perfect conditions— create lasting transformation.
Enjoy the JourneyThis chapter encourages readers to embrace life with intention, joy, and responsibility.
It emphasizes being the cause of your own happiness by setting and pursuing meaningful goals—whether big or small—and enjoying the process of achieving them.
Through the example of his children, particularly his son who seeks new experiences and challenges, the author illustrates how pursuing passions and trying new things can enrich one's journey.
The message is clear: don’t just chase outcomes—make the journey count. Whether it’s fitness or personal growth, take ownership, act now, and make memories you’ll be proud of.
Appendix FWant to be King or Queen of the racket courts? This appendix explores three popular racket sports—pickleball, tennis, and racquetball.
It explains the rising popularity of pickleball, especially among seniors, and break down its basic rules, serving sequence, and recommended beginner paddles. It also offers a detailed overview of tennis, including equipment, rules, six core strokes, and step-by-step beginner tips for serving, ground strokes, volleys, and overhead smashes. Competitive play, gear recommendations, and tournament tips are included.
The section ends with a brief introduction to racquetball, highlighting gameplay variations and court layout. Each sport is accessibly to help beginners confidently start.
Boom Baby Boom Appendix GAppendix G explores the nutritional pros and cons of various seeds and nuts. Sunflower, sesame, walnut, hazelnut, pecan, pistachio, and peanut varieties are highlighted for their health benefits such as heart health, weight management,
digestion, and rich nutrient profiles.
However, many also pose risks like high calorie or sodium content, allergies, and, in peanuts' case, potential food poisoning or
inflammation.
Each section encourages mindful consumption—highlighting how
moderation, preparation methods, and awareness of allergies are key to enjoying these foods as part of a healthy diet.
Appendix H explores various nutritional drinks beneficial for seniors. Protein shakes like Boost and Ensure Max offer essential nutrients but may cause mild side effects such as bloating or nausea. Vegan protein shakes are ideal for those with dietary restrictions. Kefir is rich in calcium, vitamin K₂, and probiotics, aiding digestion, bone health, and immunity. Kombucha supports gut health, blood sugar control, and offers anti-aging benefits.
Cold-pressed juices provide fiber and nutrients but may be high in sugar. Vegetable juices like carrot juice improve digestion, vision, and
detoxification. Green juices from spinach, kale, and cucumber are rich in vitamins and support digestion and eye health.
Together, these beverages can help seniors meet their nutritional needs and improve overall well-being.
Boom Baby Boom- Appendix IThis appendix offers simple and sustainable meal ideas for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
that lean toward the healthy side.
The Breakfasts include options like hard-boiled eggs, fruit, croissants, and scrambled eggs with veggies.
Lunches revolve around easy sandwiches using ingredients such as deli turkey, eggs, tuna, avocado, and whole-grain bread.
For dinner, the author recommends quick, balanced meals like grilled fish, pork chops, roasted chicken, and green or kale salads, often using fresh vegetables or pre-packaged kits. The meals are designed to be easy to prepare with leftovers in mind, with chicken from Costco or Winco as a go-to protein staple.
Appendix J reviews top heart rate monitor watches based on features, cost, and health benefits. The Fitbit Versa 4 is praised for overall value, tracking multiple metrics and offering various sport modes.
The Fitbit Sense 2 excels in overall health tracking, especially stress and sleep, but lacks app integration and is pricey.
The The Garmin Vivosmart 5 is ideal for small wrists and includes oxygen saturation monitoring, though setup can be tricky.
The Google Pixel Watch stands out for those with heart conditions, offering EKG monitoring, 24-hour battery, and extensive fitness tracking, though it comes at a high cost.
The final word encourages readers to lead by example, live healthfully, and stay motivated even when efforts feel unrewarded. Drawing from an Olympian’s advice, the team is author notes that feeling good about one’s progress happens only a third of the time— so don’t quit when it’s hard.
Seth Godin’s inspirational books are recommended and readers are urged to apply “due diligence” to their health choices. The message is one of perseverance, positivity, and intentional living.
Closing quotes reinforce themes of gratitude, forward-looking hope, and the joy of appreciating life. The author signs off with a rallying call: “Boom, baby, boom!
