My Heart Attack at 49 Nearly Killed Me - Fitness Saved My Life

Phil’s 61-year journey with exercise proves that it’s never too late to train smart instead of hard. From following his older brothers into sport at age 5, through a 12-year AFL career, to a life-threatening heart attack that changed everything - Phil’s story is about learning the hard way that sustainable fitness beats intensity every time. In this honest conversation, Phil shares: • How following his brothers into sport shaped his entire life • Why sport became his path when school wasn’t working • The overtraining habits that nearly cost him his life • The moment fitness saved him during a heart attack at 49 • Why he now trains at 90% intensity instead of going all out • How he’s preparing his body to stay independent into his 80s • The simple advice that could prevent others from making his mistakes Key Quote: “I feel like I’m probably the luckiest man alive to have a second chance. I want to see my kids grow up, have grandkids, enjoy them, and I want to just live life and have as much fun as I can.” This isn’t about elite performance or extreme training. It’s about learning from 61 years of experience that sustainable fitness, smart recovery, and training for longevity matter more than pushing your limits. https://getactiveforlife.com