you may have noticed, from the way we swoon over the perfect garden party to the praise we shower on our very own web designer, we’re big design geeks over here at TCM headquarters. So when the chance to chat with celeb carpenter Ty Pennington came across our desks, we couldn’t help but get giddy! We first “met” Ty on TLC’s Trading Spaces, then later on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, and in both programs it was apparent he gained his greatest joy from not only helping design and build brilliant spaces, but by bringing joy to others in the process, turning their house into a home.

With a career that includes hosting, carpentry, home design, furnishing, and writing – including a NYT bestselling book! – we can’t help but marvel at how seamlessly Ty appears to balance his multiple passions while staying fantastically fit at fifty years old (we know, we couldn’t believe it, either)! We’re not sure if it’s all the fresh produce in his diet or his authentic and laid-back approach to life, but this cool carpenter seems to have the fountain of youth thing nailed – no pun intended. Take note of Ty’s blueprint to leading a happy, healthy life, no matter what your age…

The Chalkboard Magazine: Ty, we know we’re stating the obvious, but you are in fantastic shape, and you always seem to be working on something new and exciting! What does a typical day look like for you?


Ty Pennington: My day actually starts on the run. I run to the beach and back, then stretch out my back, by doing my own form of yoga, Groan-gah – by the way, groaning is the new spinning. Then after work, to unwind, I cruise through the canals of Venice on my bike, or play music with my friends in my backyard studio.


TCM: What does a typical week of fitness look like for you? Any favorite exercises or workouts?


TP: Since I have such a busy schedule I really try to get to the gym first thing in the morning for a good workout. If there’s time, I’ll go five times a week. Outside of the gym I’m big into soccer, surfing and riding my skateboard, which is actually an awesome workout.

TCM: What staples do you keep in your kitchen to help you stay energized and healthy? 


TP: My fridge always has fresh squeezed tangerine juice, coconut water, arugula (for my favorite salad), salsa and guac. I’m also big on granola, there are probably six bags of it in my pantry, and there’s a big bowl of fresh fruit on the counter. Almonds and bananas are a must. Love a good PB & J.


TCM: As we age, we naturally lose some of the natural abilities we once had in our twenties and thirties, from the way we eat, to the way our body is able to move. This can be frustrating, but you’re proof that you can be in the “best shape of your life” at any age. What have you found works best for you when it comes to approaching fitness, nutrition, and wellness at fifty?


TP: For nutrition, moderation is the key, but I love to eat, so whether it is cooking at home or eating out, I always try to end up with leftovers. I like to keep up my energy and big meals slow you down. Eating things that are good for you make you feel good. Eating fresh fruits and veggies, salads, and juices really give you a boost. For fitness, even if I don’t feel like working out, I do some sort of physical activity almost everyday. I’m always jumping through hoops so I take a jump rope with me everywhere. If you don’t use it, you lose it! Regarding wellness, take time for yourself every day. Everyone’s lives have become so fast-paced and busy, so it is easy to forget to stop, take a breath and take some time for yourself.



TCM: What’s your best tip to stay balanced?
 Between your own home décor line, multiple collaborations, hosting, and giving back, your schedule always seems to be jam-packed!

TP: For me, finding balance is about having work in one hand and play in the other. The trick is being able to juggle both and laugh at the same time.


TCM: Here at The Chalkboard, we’re all about the small changes that build up over time to make the biggest differences. What small tweaks can our readers make in their day to reap maximum benefits in the long run?


TP: Learn one new thing every day. Interact more with mankind instead of technology.

TCM: Biggest inspiration:


TP: Discovering the amazing beauty of nature that is sometimes right in front of us.

TCM: Advice you would you give to your 20-year-old self:


TP: I would love to give my 20-year-old self a few words of advice, but I know I wouldn’t listen. But if I did, it would be: Stop saying “I know,” because you don’t.



TCM: Current mantra:


TP: Be natural and be genuine.