Al Roker Credits Walking Habit for Saving His Life After Health Crises

NEW YORK, N.Y. — Al Roker, the beloved TODAY show weatherman and co-host, credits his daily walking habit with helping him survive a series of serious health challenges, including blood clots and gallbladder surgery in 2022. Roker, 70, revealed that his doctor told him his consistent cardio routine likely saved his life.

Roker began walking up to five miles a day after undergoing prostate cancer surgery in 2020, following his doctor’s recommendation. By 2022, when he faced additional health issues, his walking habit had become a cornerstone of his recovery. “My doctor said the physical condition I was in because of the walking—because of the cardio—that probably helped save my life,” Roker said during a January 2023 appearance on TODAY.

Despite his busy schedule, Roker prioritizes his health by waking up early to walk on a treadmill before work. “I get up in the morning and I try to do a mile before I leave for work,” he told DailyMail. He also uses walking as a form of self-care, enjoying the solitude and chance to recharge. “When I go for a walk, I like the solitude, because I’m surrounded by people all day, and I love them, but that gives me a chance to kind of recharge, reset, take in nature,” he told TODAY.com.

Roker’s health journey has been marked by significant challenges, including a 2002 gastric bypass surgery and a peak weight of 340 pounds. He admits he once made excuses to avoid exercise but now views movement as a non-negotiable priority. “It’s a matter of just prioritizing your time. We tend to make excuses for why you can’t do something, and I think you just need to make you a priority,” he said.

To stay consistent, Roker employs practical strategies, such as walking during airport layovers or taking meetings on a treadmill. He also leans on a supportive community, including the Start TODAY Facebook group, where he shares his progress and encourages others. “The overarching theme is, we’re in this together,” Roker said. “Some people just need a ‘Hey, way to go.’ Others need a real pep talk.”

Roker’s wife, Deborah Roberts, has also played a key role in his mindset shift. Her mantra, “Something is better than nothing,” has become a guiding principle for Roker. “I really was one of those people: ‘Oh, if I can’t get out there for an hour or do four miles, I’m just not going to do it,’” he said. “Well, maybe you don’t have time to do four miles. How about two? Something is better than nothing.”

Roker’s story underscores the transformative power of small, consistent steps. His journey has inspired thousands in the Start TODAY community, where he serves as a “Chief Motivation Officer,” leading walking challenges and sharing his experiences. “You don’t have to do everything all at once,” Roker said. “Nobody does that.”