For years, doctors have been preaching the importance of staying fit and healthy as you get older, especially after the age of 50. Valerie Belcher is a firm believer. In fact, she could very well be one of the fittest 50-year-old women in Houston. Not only does she devote two hours a day, four days a week to working out at the gym, but she also participates in other athletic activities on a daily basis to supplement her training and for sheer enjoyment.

A member of Bally Total Fitness since 1978, Belcher began working out religiously in 1983 after graduating college. Her morning gym sessions include a half hour of calisthenics followed by weight training.

“I think it’s important for girls and women to workout regularly because it’s good for strengthening bones, and it makes you stronger,” she said. “As you get older, your bones need to be strengthened, and, especially for women in their 50s, it helps to prevent osteoporosis. It’s good for your cardiovascular system, it develops muscles and it keeps you looking toned and lean so you don’t get flabby.”

In addition to gym workouts, Belcher, who stands an even 5’, often runs at Memorial Park, rides a stationary bike at home, practices archery and goes horseback riding with her 15-year-old daughter Kristi. She trained to compete in the Chevron Houston Marathon in 2009, but had to drop out of the race more than halfway through after suffering an injury. Belcher has also participated in a sprint triathlon and twice in the BP MS 150 bike tour.